The MYSA Complaints, Appeals and Hearings process is how MYSA addresses violations of policies and/or rules that may result sanctions against violator(s) including suspensions from participation in MYSA, US Youth Soccer, USSF or FIFA activities.
Below is a summary of the procedures for the two most common circumstances:
1. A complaint filed against a MYSA member (i.e. recruiting)
2. MYSA is alerted to a clear violation and MYSA imposes a suspension (i.e. referee abuse)
Individuals or organizations wishing to submit a complaint must do using the Complaint Form within 60 days of the alleged incident. However, MYSA will review all complaints to see if there are extenuating circumstances that warrant pursuing the matter once 60 days has passed.
We encourage everyone to read the Hearings Policy Manual before submitting a complaint as there are exceptions and nuances to different situations.
Below are the steps in the event a complaint is filed by a MYSA member.
1. Complaint Filed
Any MYSA members may file a complaint against any MYSA member for a violation of MYSA policies and rules i.e. recruiting. The complaint should be filed within 60 days of the alleged violation absent extenuating circumstances as determined by MYSA.
2. Complaint Reviewed
The complaint is reviewed and information may be requested or accepted regarding the complaint.
3. MYSA Hearing Panel
If MYSA finds the complaint to be valid, the complaint will be referred to a MYSA Hearing Panel for a hearing. The Hearing Panel consists of 3-5 people deemed “neutral” in the situation, but with some knowledge of youth soccer. They will conduct a proceeding in accordance with the rules and determine the outcome.
4. Decision and Potential Appeal
After the Hearing Panel reaches a decision, MYSA will let the parties know of their decision and their right to appeal the decision to the United States Soccer Federation.
If MYSA is alerted to a clear violation the process below will occur. Examples of violations include referee assault, ineligible use of players, etc.
1. Violation of MYSA Rules
Violations of any MYSA policies or rules may result in the suspension of the violator. A suspension may be imposed and delivered prior to a hearing for referee assault/abuse or violation of the rules of competitions (red cards, use of ineligible players, etc.).
2. Suspension
MYSA will impose an appropriate suspension based on the applicable rules, such as the MYSA Rules, USSF Rules, or the rules of specific competitions such as Minnesota State Cup or MYSA Championships. Within 10 business days of the decision, the violator will be given notice of the suspension and notice of their right to appeal.
3. MYSA Appeals Panel
If the violator decides to appeal the sanction, he/she must do so within 10 business days using the Notice of Appeal form. The matter will then be referred to a MYSA Appeals Panel for a hearing in accordance with the rules. The Appeals Panel will conduct a proceeding in accordance with the rules and deliberate on the outcome.
4. Delivery of Decision and Notice to Appeal Decision of the Appeals Panel
After Appeals Panel makes a decision, MYSA will inform the violator of the decision of the Appeals Panel and the party’s right to appeal the decision to the United States Soccer Federation in accordance with USSF policy.
MYSA, MYSA Hearing Panels and MYSA Appeals Panels may impose or uphold sanctions against individuals or organizations that violate MYSA Rules or Policies (including rules and laws that are applicable to MYSA through US Youth Soccer, USSF and FIFA).
Sanctions may include fines, suspensions or temporary withdrawal of the right to participate (directly or indirectly) in the game of affiliated soccer. Sanctions will be determined within the bounds of MYSA and USSF rules based on the severity of the violation.
Suspension of Member Clubs, teams, players and officials imposed by this association shall be recognized by all affiliated organizations within USSF after proper notification.