2024 Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance
League Policies
Section I – Membership
Membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance (SCSA) may be revised on a yearly basis and is restricted to accredited colleges and universities in the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association’s (NIRSA) Region 2 which consists of eligible schools from the following states: Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, and Kentucky. Each college and university may only be represented by 1 women’s and 1 men’s team in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance.
If a team elects to have a second team it will be an additional fee ($200) and that second team will be ineligible for the regional tournament. (Ex Team A and Team B, Team B would be ineligible for Regional Tournament). All player rosters would need to be updated onIMLeagues platform.
Region 2 is affiliated with NIRSA. In accordance with the by-laws of NIRSA, membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance is open to any NCAA, NCJAA, or NAIA college and university within the NIRSA Region 2 area.
Any team that fails to meet its responsibilities as a league member will be subject to probation, suspension, or regulation to an Associate Member.
Section I.A – Associate Member
Teams joining the SCSA for the first time or rejoining the league after suspension will be an associate member for the upcoming season. The following are stipulations for associate members:
The league fee for membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance is $500 for all teams. These fees will cover some of the costs of the annual regional tournament, entry fees to the NIRSA National Championship Tournament for the three automatic bids, and administrative/operational costs. Entry fee for those 28 teams (16 men’s and 12 women’s) which qualify for the Regional Tournament are covered in this league fee. Any team that does not forfeit (see Section IX) or receive an invitation to the Regional Tournament will receive a refund of $200 after the season is completed or can have it rolled into the next season..
Teams that have a late payment will be given a 1 week extension but will incur a $50 late fee. IF not a paid team will be removed from the league and will have to enter the following season as an associate member.
Section III – League Management
The Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance will be directed by the Men’s & Women’s League Commissioners who preside over all matters affecting the SCSA. Each Division will be directed by a Division Coordinator, who will send a weekly report to the League Commissioner regarding
results, fines, issues, etc. Each team will work directly with the Division Coordinator but always has the opportunity to bring an issue to the League Commissioners.
Section IV – Schedules
By accepting membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance, each member school agrees to participate in all league matches, as scheduled and certified by the Commissioner and Division Coordinator. Changes to the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance schedule may be made, with the consent of all involved clubs, and the League Commissioner or Divisional Coordinator of that specific division at least 5 business days prior to the original game date. Rescheduled game date and time must be submitted at time of game change request, 5 business days prior to the original game date. Failure to satisfy league game commitments may result in the levying of fines and suspension from the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance for the following season or longer.
Each team is required to complete six (6) SCSA league matches during the season to be eligible for the regional tournament, unless inclement weather does not allow. The Division Coordinator will schedule the divisional matches, which may cover all six (6) required league matches.
Section V – Hosting League Games and Tournaments
The host team of any league game is responsible for scheduling all game officials, scheduling the fields, setting game times, and providing accommodation information to the visiting team(s). The host team is also responsible for facility costs, but these costs can be shared if visiting clubs are in prior agreement. The host team of a single match is responsible for scheduling game officials and the full costs of the officials. In a round-robin format, when the host team is not playing, the officials' fees will be split 50/50 between the two teams playing. The host team is responsible for collecting officials’ fees and field costs (if applicable) in a timely manner.
If a match between two teams is not played because of failure for a team to meet its responsibilities (securing fields, obtaining officials, arriving to play, etc.), then the team at fault will lose $100 of the $200 bond (paid in the league fee). This fee will go back to the Region II League and can be distributed to the team that was not at fault to cover any expenses.
In the case of a match being cancelled because of the failure of a team to meet its responsibilities, then it will be recorded as a forfeit for the team at fault (forfeit victories are scored 1-0). If no team is at fault, and the game cannot be rescheduled, then the game is cancelled (cancelled games receive no points). All league games must be played before October 20, 2024 to count towards league standings and tournament placement. Only inclement weather make-up games may be played October 25-27, 2024, but they must be approved by the Divisional Coordinator and League Commissioner. If a game is canceled by either team and is unable to be rescheduled; the team who forfeited the game originally will lose $100 of the bond paid within the league fees. If a game is started and one full half is played and then called because of weather, loss of daylight or any other "act of God" then it will be considered a full match and the score will be recorded as so.
All games will start within 30 minutes of the scheduled starting time, unless agreed upon by both teams. If a game does not begin within this period, the team at fault will be charged with a forfeit. Clubs are encouraged to accommodate teams during unforeseen circumstances, i.e. travel problems, getting lost, weather, etc… If a forfeit is being requested, the Division Coordinator should be contacted immediately and they will make the determination of a forfeit. Whenever possible, host teams should allow for a minimum break of one (1) hour between games for all invitational participants. League games shall consist of two halves no less than 30 minutes and no more than 45 minutes in length, with no overtime. The only time halves should be less than 35 minutes in length should be for daylight issues, weather and to shorten games to give teams more time between games.
Teams hosting an invitational and/or home matches are expected to provide game information (i.e. date, time and game location) to all participants a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled contest. Game information needs to be emailed and/or telephoned to all participating teams and the Division Coordinator.
Section VI Game Officials
Game officials are the responsibility of the hosting team. Three (3) licensed officials are recommended to be present at every match. Failure to have at least two (2) certified officials (FIFA, NFHS, NISOA, NCAA, or USSF) present during a home game will result in a forfeit by the host team. It is recommended the host team contact the assignor or game officials prior to the scheduled game to bring their patch if at all possible. Officials certified within the previous 3 years will be accepted. Certified officials should have a patch with them, depicting their level of certification. All games shall be played under NCAA rules with exception for unlimited player substitutions. If the host team fails to provide certified officials (as listed above) the first offense will result in the game score being recorded as a 1-0 forfeit against the team at fault. If a second offense occurs, the team at fault will lose their forfeit bond and the game score will be recorded as a 1-0 forfeit. It is the responsibility of the visiting team to report this offense to their Division Coordinator. If any further offenses occur, the League Commissioner will implement the punishment at their discretion.
Section VI - Cancellations/Rescheduling
To cancel or reschedule a game the team needing to make the proposed change needs to confirm any change with the team(s) involved a minimum of 5 business days prior to the scheduled match(es). This change needs to be approved by the teams involved and the Division Coordinator. This does not include the acts of God (weather, etc.). See Section for Forfeits
Games that are impacted by inclement weather or other unavoidable circumstances must be rescheduled. If the teams cannot reschedule the match, the game will be marked down as not played with no score assigned. Teams that are deemed to have not made an effort to reschedule or are unresponsive can be charged with a forfeit. The is decided on by the league administrators.
Section IX – Forfeitures & Cancellations
A penalty for the forfeit by a team will be a written warning from the Division Coordinator, reported to the League Commissioner, along with the loss of $100 from the $200 bond paid as part of the league fee. A second forfeit by the team will result in another $100 loss, which is the entirety of the bond paid originally, and the team will be placed on probation. The bond payment may go to the team which was forfeited upon in order to recover legitimate expenses incurred by the forfeit. Any further forfeits by the team will result in suspension from the next league season. Any game played by a team which is later suspended will be recorded as a 1-0 Forfeit (F) in all games going towards standings and power rankings.
Approved cancellations that are not replayed will be recorded as a canceled game with no points assigned.
A penalty for the forfeit by a team will be a written warning from the Division Coordinator, reported to the League Commissioner, along with the loss of $100 from the $200 bond paid as part of the league fee. A second forfeit by the team will result in another $100 loss, which is the entirety of the bond paid originally, and the team will be placed on probation. The bond payment may go to the team which was forfeited upon in order to recover legitimate expenses incurred by the forfeit. Any further forfeits by the team will result in suspension from the next league season. Any game played by a team which is later suspended will be recorded as a 1-0 Forfeit (F) in all games going towards standings and power rankings.
Section VII – Player Eligibility
Player eligibility shall be in full accordance with NIRSA policy, as outlined in the NIRSA Championship Series Eligibility Guidelines listed on the NIRSA website: http://play.nirsa.net/nirsa-championship-series/player-eligibility-requirements/
In order to ensure players’ eligibility for the Regional Tournament, official rosters approved by the University Registrar and Sport Club Professional will be submitted by each team at the Captains Meeting at the Regional Tournament.
All players should be listed on IM Leagues by the deadline set by the league. Extension can be granted to those teams with reasonable requests submitted to the DC prior to the deadline.
Section VIII – Uniforms
For all league matches, each team shall wear uniforms of matching color, design, and pattern. All jerseys (except those of goalkeepers) must be clearly and uniquely numbered on the back with numbers at least six inches in height. When the uniforms of both teams are similar, the home team shall be required to change. Failure to comply with the league uniform policy may result in disciplinary action against the teams in violation. Each team attending a game should have one set of light and dark jerseys and socks (numbered, t-shirt jerseys are acceptable).
Section VIII – Ejections
Any player/s ejected from a league game shall be suspended from the next league game. If an individual player received three (3) ejections during one season, he/she will be suspended from league/regional tournament play for the remainder of the season. Additional disciplinary action may result if a team persists in misconduct. This is a self-policing policy so please help us police it!
Section X – Probation & Suspension
If a team is placed on probation, they will still be permitted to host matches and be eligible for the power ranking, but further infractions to league policies may result in suspension.
If a team on probation fails to uphold their membership responsibilities, or a serious infraction occurs, they may be suspended from the league. Suspended teams will be ineligible to participate in league games or the regional tournament. They may reapply for membership the following year. If readmitted, suspended teams will be under a one year probationary period and reevaluated for full membership.
Section XI – Game Results and Standings
The host team should report the scores from all the matches that were played on the dates they hosted. These scores should be reported no later than 12 noon on the Monday following the weekend matches. If there are games played mid-week or outside the normal weekend dates then these scores should be sent to the Division Coordinator no later than 48hrs after the match. If a SCSA team is hosting a tournament, all scores from the tournament must reported to their Divisional Coordinator no later than 12 noon on the Monday following the weekend tournament.
League Regular Season Standings will be determined by an RPI calculator that factors in overall record, strength, of schedule, and number of games played. These standings will be used to determine the teams who qualify for the regional tournament and seeding at said tournament. See League Rankings below for more details.
Tournament Standings will be determined on a point basis. A win will count as six (6) points, a tie as two (2), and a loss as none. In the event of a tie in the divisional standings, the following will be used to resolve order of standings. These standings will determine seeding after pool play at the regional tournament.
If a three or more teams are tied, then the tiebreak order will restart after each tie is broken.
Example:
Team A, Team B, & Team C each have a 5-1 division record and split losses between each other – cannot use head to head result
Team A has +30 goal differential, Team B & C each have +25 – Team A secures top spot in division
Team B defeated Team C 2-1 – Team B secures second place with head to head result
If however, Team B & C tied head to head, then we would move to total goals allowed.
Each Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance team will be required to play six (6) regular season league games prior to the Regional Tournament.
Section XII –Expansion
Requests for league affiliation should be submitted to the League Commissioner to be considered for the following season.
Section XIII – League Rankings
Overall league ranking will be determined using the rating percentage index (RPI). The RPI is a mathematical formula that objectively ranks teams based upon a team's wins and losses and its strength of schedule. The RPI is used by the NCAA to aid in the selection of teams for post-season tournament play for a variety of sports including both men’s and women’s soccer. The formula for calculating the RPI consists of three components or “elements”: 1) a team's winning percentage (WP), 2) its opponents' winning percentage (OWP), and 3) the winning percentage of those opponents' opponents (OOWP). The WP is worth 25% of the index, OWP is 50% of the index, and OOWP is 25% of the index. The formula is written as:
RPI = (WP * 0.25) + (OWP * 0.50) + (OOWP * 0.25)
A detailed description and demonstration of how the RPI works is available here: https://sites.google.com/site/rpifordivisioniwomenssoccer/rpi-formula.
Please note:
Section XIV – Postseason Play
The NIRSA Championship Series Region 2 Soccer Championship will consist of twelve (12) women’s teams and sixteen (16) men’s teams. The women’s division of the Regional Tournament will consist of the top team from each division and two wild card teams. The men’s division of the Regional Tournament will consist of the top team from each division with the remaining four invitations given to wild card teams. The wild card teams will be the next highest RPI ranked teams that have not already qualified by divisional placing. The 2024 tournament will be held on November 1st-3rd, 2024.
In the event no postseason tournament can be played, then automatic bids will be awarded based on final power rankings only. At large bid recommendations will be at the discretion of the league commissioner and regional division chairs.
Section XV – National Bids
NIRSA guarantees Region 2 men’s and women’s each three national bids to the Annual NIRSA National Soccer Championship Division. These bids will be awarded to the Regional Tournament Champion and Runner-up. The last bid will be given to the next highest RPI-ranked teams based on regional tournament performance. In order to receive any of the above three bids, the teams must participate in the Regional Tournament. Additional bids will be recommended at the discretion of the league commissioner. Regular season standings, tournament play, and strength of schedule will be considered.
In the event of a tie in the final RPI-ranking standings the following will be used to resolve order of the rankings. This system will be based on eligible games (all games against SCSA teams).
Section XVI – Commissioner's Statement
In the event a circumstance of significance to the conference arises that is not covered in the league policies, the Commissioner is empowered to use their discretion to resolve the matter in the best interest of the SCSA.
Last Updated: June 17, 2024
League Policies
Section I – Membership
Membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance (SCSA) may be revised on a yearly basis and is restricted to accredited colleges and universities in the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association’s (NIRSA) Region 2 which consists of eligible schools from the following states: Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, and Kentucky. Each college and university may only be represented by 1 women’s and 1 men’s team in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance.
If a team elects to have a second team it will be an additional fee ($200) and that second team will be ineligible for the regional tournament. (Ex Team A and Team B, Team B would be ineligible for Regional Tournament). All player rosters would need to be updated onIMLeagues platform.
Region 2 is affiliated with NIRSA. In accordance with the by-laws of NIRSA, membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance is open to any NCAA, NCJAA, or NAIA college and university within the NIRSA Region 2 area.
Any team that fails to meet its responsibilities as a league member will be subject to probation, suspension, or regulation to an Associate Member.
Section I.A – Associate Member
Teams joining the SCSA for the first time or rejoining the league after suspension will be an associate member for the upcoming season. The following are stipulations for associate members:
- Ineligible for Regional Tournament
- All SCSA games count towards opponents RPI Ranking
- A minimum of 3 SCSA games must be played for consideration to be a full member the following season
- All game scheduling will be the responsibility of the team. No divisional scheduling on behalf of the SCSA divisional coordinator.
- Reduced registration fee of $300 ($200 refundable forfeit bond, see Section IX)
The league fee for membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance is $500 for all teams. These fees will cover some of the costs of the annual regional tournament, entry fees to the NIRSA National Championship Tournament for the three automatic bids, and administrative/operational costs. Entry fee for those 28 teams (16 men’s and 12 women’s) which qualify for the Regional Tournament are covered in this league fee. Any team that does not forfeit (see Section IX) or receive an invitation to the Regional Tournament will receive a refund of $200 after the season is completed or can have it rolled into the next season..
Teams that have a late payment will be given a 1 week extension but will incur a $50 late fee. IF not a paid team will be removed from the league and will have to enter the following season as an associate member.
Section III – League Management
The Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance will be directed by the Men’s & Women’s League Commissioners who preside over all matters affecting the SCSA. Each Division will be directed by a Division Coordinator, who will send a weekly report to the League Commissioner regarding
results, fines, issues, etc. Each team will work directly with the Division Coordinator but always has the opportunity to bring an issue to the League Commissioners.
Section IV – Schedules
By accepting membership in the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance, each member school agrees to participate in all league matches, as scheduled and certified by the Commissioner and Division Coordinator. Changes to the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance schedule may be made, with the consent of all involved clubs, and the League Commissioner or Divisional Coordinator of that specific division at least 5 business days prior to the original game date. Rescheduled game date and time must be submitted at time of game change request, 5 business days prior to the original game date. Failure to satisfy league game commitments may result in the levying of fines and suspension from the Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance for the following season or longer.
Each team is required to complete six (6) SCSA league matches during the season to be eligible for the regional tournament, unless inclement weather does not allow. The Division Coordinator will schedule the divisional matches, which may cover all six (6) required league matches.
- Tournament matches hosted by SCSA members can count towards these non-Divisional matches. Only matches played against other SCSA teams will count towards league rankings.
- Any matches played against teams that are NOT SCSA affiliated will not count toward league rankings. These matches played against opponents who are not members of the SCSA do not need to be submitted to the Division Coordinator.
- Matches played against SCSA Associate Members DOES count toward league standings.
Section V – Hosting League Games and Tournaments
The host team of any league game is responsible for scheduling all game officials, scheduling the fields, setting game times, and providing accommodation information to the visiting team(s). The host team is also responsible for facility costs, but these costs can be shared if visiting clubs are in prior agreement. The host team of a single match is responsible for scheduling game officials and the full costs of the officials. In a round-robin format, when the host team is not playing, the officials' fees will be split 50/50 between the two teams playing. The host team is responsible for collecting officials’ fees and field costs (if applicable) in a timely manner.
If a match between two teams is not played because of failure for a team to meet its responsibilities (securing fields, obtaining officials, arriving to play, etc.), then the team at fault will lose $100 of the $200 bond (paid in the league fee). This fee will go back to the Region II League and can be distributed to the team that was not at fault to cover any expenses.
In the case of a match being cancelled because of the failure of a team to meet its responsibilities, then it will be recorded as a forfeit for the team at fault (forfeit victories are scored 1-0). If no team is at fault, and the game cannot be rescheduled, then the game is cancelled (cancelled games receive no points). All league games must be played before October 20, 2024 to count towards league standings and tournament placement. Only inclement weather make-up games may be played October 25-27, 2024, but they must be approved by the Divisional Coordinator and League Commissioner. If a game is canceled by either team and is unable to be rescheduled; the team who forfeited the game originally will lose $100 of the bond paid within the league fees. If a game is started and one full half is played and then called because of weather, loss of daylight or any other "act of God" then it will be considered a full match and the score will be recorded as so.
All games will start within 30 minutes of the scheduled starting time, unless agreed upon by both teams. If a game does not begin within this period, the team at fault will be charged with a forfeit. Clubs are encouraged to accommodate teams during unforeseen circumstances, i.e. travel problems, getting lost, weather, etc… If a forfeit is being requested, the Division Coordinator should be contacted immediately and they will make the determination of a forfeit. Whenever possible, host teams should allow for a minimum break of one (1) hour between games for all invitational participants. League games shall consist of two halves no less than 30 minutes and no more than 45 minutes in length, with no overtime. The only time halves should be less than 35 minutes in length should be for daylight issues, weather and to shorten games to give teams more time between games.
Teams hosting an invitational and/or home matches are expected to provide game information (i.e. date, time and game location) to all participants a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled contest. Game information needs to be emailed and/or telephoned to all participating teams and the Division Coordinator.
Section VI Game Officials
Game officials are the responsibility of the hosting team. Three (3) licensed officials are recommended to be present at every match. Failure to have at least two (2) certified officials (FIFA, NFHS, NISOA, NCAA, or USSF) present during a home game will result in a forfeit by the host team. It is recommended the host team contact the assignor or game officials prior to the scheduled game to bring their patch if at all possible. Officials certified within the previous 3 years will be accepted. Certified officials should have a patch with them, depicting their level of certification. All games shall be played under NCAA rules with exception for unlimited player substitutions. If the host team fails to provide certified officials (as listed above) the first offense will result in the game score being recorded as a 1-0 forfeit against the team at fault. If a second offense occurs, the team at fault will lose their forfeit bond and the game score will be recorded as a 1-0 forfeit. It is the responsibility of the visiting team to report this offense to their Division Coordinator. If any further offenses occur, the League Commissioner will implement the punishment at their discretion.
Section VI - Cancellations/Rescheduling
To cancel or reschedule a game the team needing to make the proposed change needs to confirm any change with the team(s) involved a minimum of 5 business days prior to the scheduled match(es). This change needs to be approved by the teams involved and the Division Coordinator. This does not include the acts of God (weather, etc.). See Section for Forfeits
Games that are impacted by inclement weather or other unavoidable circumstances must be rescheduled. If the teams cannot reschedule the match, the game will be marked down as not played with no score assigned. Teams that are deemed to have not made an effort to reschedule or are unresponsive can be charged with a forfeit. The is decided on by the league administrators.
Section IX – Forfeitures & Cancellations
A penalty for the forfeit by a team will be a written warning from the Division Coordinator, reported to the League Commissioner, along with the loss of $100 from the $200 bond paid as part of the league fee. A second forfeit by the team will result in another $100 loss, which is the entirety of the bond paid originally, and the team will be placed on probation. The bond payment may go to the team which was forfeited upon in order to recover legitimate expenses incurred by the forfeit. Any further forfeits by the team will result in suspension from the next league season. Any game played by a team which is later suspended will be recorded as a 1-0 Forfeit (F) in all games going towards standings and power rankings.
Approved cancellations that are not replayed will be recorded as a canceled game with no points assigned.
A penalty for the forfeit by a team will be a written warning from the Division Coordinator, reported to the League Commissioner, along with the loss of $100 from the $200 bond paid as part of the league fee. A second forfeit by the team will result in another $100 loss, which is the entirety of the bond paid originally, and the team will be placed on probation. The bond payment may go to the team which was forfeited upon in order to recover legitimate expenses incurred by the forfeit. Any further forfeits by the team will result in suspension from the next league season. Any game played by a team which is later suspended will be recorded as a 1-0 Forfeit (F) in all games going towards standings and power rankings.
Section VII – Player Eligibility
Player eligibility shall be in full accordance with NIRSA policy, as outlined in the NIRSA Championship Series Eligibility Guidelines listed on the NIRSA website: http://play.nirsa.net/nirsa-championship-series/player-eligibility-requirements/
In order to ensure players’ eligibility for the Regional Tournament, official rosters approved by the University Registrar and Sport Club Professional will be submitted by each team at the Captains Meeting at the Regional Tournament.
All players should be listed on IM Leagues by the deadline set by the league. Extension can be granted to those teams with reasonable requests submitted to the DC prior to the deadline.
Section VIII – Uniforms
For all league matches, each team shall wear uniforms of matching color, design, and pattern. All jerseys (except those of goalkeepers) must be clearly and uniquely numbered on the back with numbers at least six inches in height. When the uniforms of both teams are similar, the home team shall be required to change. Failure to comply with the league uniform policy may result in disciplinary action against the teams in violation. Each team attending a game should have one set of light and dark jerseys and socks (numbered, t-shirt jerseys are acceptable).
Section VIII – Ejections
Any player/s ejected from a league game shall be suspended from the next league game. If an individual player received three (3) ejections during one season, he/she will be suspended from league/regional tournament play for the remainder of the season. Additional disciplinary action may result if a team persists in misconduct. This is a self-policing policy so please help us police it!
Section X – Probation & Suspension
If a team is placed on probation, they will still be permitted to host matches and be eligible for the power ranking, but further infractions to league policies may result in suspension.
If a team on probation fails to uphold their membership responsibilities, or a serious infraction occurs, they may be suspended from the league. Suspended teams will be ineligible to participate in league games or the regional tournament. They may reapply for membership the following year. If readmitted, suspended teams will be under a one year probationary period and reevaluated for full membership.
Section XI – Game Results and Standings
The host team should report the scores from all the matches that were played on the dates they hosted. These scores should be reported no later than 12 noon on the Monday following the weekend matches. If there are games played mid-week or outside the normal weekend dates then these scores should be sent to the Division Coordinator no later than 48hrs after the match. If a SCSA team is hosting a tournament, all scores from the tournament must reported to their Divisional Coordinator no later than 12 noon on the Monday following the weekend tournament.
League Regular Season Standings will be determined by an RPI calculator that factors in overall record, strength, of schedule, and number of games played. These standings will be used to determine the teams who qualify for the regional tournament and seeding at said tournament. See League Rankings below for more details.
Tournament Standings will be determined on a point basis. A win will count as six (6) points, a tie as two (2), and a loss as none. In the event of a tie in the divisional standings, the following will be used to resolve order of standings. These standings will determine seeding after pool play at the regional tournament.
- Head to Head Result
- Overall Goal Differential (max +/- 5 points per game)
- Total Goals Allowed
- Total Shutouts Recorded
- Coin Flip
If a three or more teams are tied, then the tiebreak order will restart after each tie is broken.
Example:
Team A, Team B, & Team C each have a 5-1 division record and split losses between each other – cannot use head to head result
Team A has +30 goal differential, Team B & C each have +25 – Team A secures top spot in division
Team B defeated Team C 2-1 – Team B secures second place with head to head result
If however, Team B & C tied head to head, then we would move to total goals allowed.
Each Southeast Collegiate Soccer Alliance team will be required to play six (6) regular season league games prior to the Regional Tournament.
Section XII –Expansion
Requests for league affiliation should be submitted to the League Commissioner to be considered for the following season.
Section XIII – League Rankings
Overall league ranking will be determined using the rating percentage index (RPI). The RPI is a mathematical formula that objectively ranks teams based upon a team's wins and losses and its strength of schedule. The RPI is used by the NCAA to aid in the selection of teams for post-season tournament play for a variety of sports including both men’s and women’s soccer. The formula for calculating the RPI consists of three components or “elements”: 1) a team's winning percentage (WP), 2) its opponents' winning percentage (OWP), and 3) the winning percentage of those opponents' opponents (OOWP). The WP is worth 25% of the index, OWP is 50% of the index, and OOWP is 25% of the index. The formula is written as:
RPI = (WP * 0.25) + (OWP * 0.50) + (OOWP * 0.25)
A detailed description and demonstration of how the RPI works is available here: https://sites.google.com/site/rpifordivisioniwomenssoccer/rpi-formula.
Please note:
- Only games played against teams that are part of the SCSA will be included in the RPI ranking.
- The RPI does not take margin of victory, goals scored, or goals against into consideration. A 10-0 win is equal to a 3-2 win.
- In order to calculate the RPI a team has to have played at least two games and any opponent of a given team has had to play at least one other game versus another team (to get the opponents’ opponents winning percentage portion of the formula). For this reason it is likely that the first RPI rankings will not be available until the first week of October.
Section XIV – Postseason Play
The NIRSA Championship Series Region 2 Soccer Championship will consist of twelve (12) women’s teams and sixteen (16) men’s teams. The women’s division of the Regional Tournament will consist of the top team from each division and two wild card teams. The men’s division of the Regional Tournament will consist of the top team from each division with the remaining four invitations given to wild card teams. The wild card teams will be the next highest RPI ranked teams that have not already qualified by divisional placing. The 2024 tournament will be held on November 1st-3rd, 2024.
In the event no postseason tournament can be played, then automatic bids will be awarded based on final power rankings only. At large bid recommendations will be at the discretion of the league commissioner and regional division chairs.
Section XV – National Bids
NIRSA guarantees Region 2 men’s and women’s each three national bids to the Annual NIRSA National Soccer Championship Division. These bids will be awarded to the Regional Tournament Champion and Runner-up. The last bid will be given to the next highest RPI-ranked teams based on regional tournament performance. In order to receive any of the above three bids, the teams must participate in the Regional Tournament. Additional bids will be recommended at the discretion of the league commissioner. Regular season standings, tournament play, and strength of schedule will be considered.
In the event of a tie in the final RPI-ranking standings the following will be used to resolve order of the rankings. This system will be based on eligible games (all games against SCSA teams).
- Head to Head Result
- Overall Goal Differential (max +/- 5 points per game)
- Total Goals Allowed
- Total Shutouts Recorded
- Coin Flip
Section XVI – Commissioner's Statement
In the event a circumstance of significance to the conference arises that is not covered in the league policies, the Commissioner is empowered to use their discretion to resolve the matter in the best interest of the SCSA.
Last Updated: June 17, 2024