In July FIFA issued its annual changes to the Laws of the Game. Referees will be informed of these chnages as part of their annual recertification exercises and will be enforcing them with competition beginning with this fall's league games. The Eastern New York referee committee wanted to alert coaches and players to these changes to prevent any misunderstandings as fall play begins.

1 - Law 1: The Field

The phrase ", , , and outside the field of play on the ground" was removed from the section forbidding advertising in specified areas of game venues.

2 - Law 4: Player's Equipment

A statement that visible sleeves of any garment worn under the jersey must conform in color to the main sleeve color of the jersey was added. This is now consistent with the restriction on the color of visible undershorts and uniform shorts.

3 - Law 4: Player's Equipment

A prohibition on any political, religious or similar statements appearing on the uniform was added. Referees are to submit reports on any instance, but not attempt to forbid any such wearing at the game.

4 - The Fourth Official

Allowance was made for the appointment of a "Reserve A/R" (ie; "Fifth Official") to certain matches.

5 - Additional Instructions

As an extension of the penalties specified for pulling one's jersey over one's face, any player who, after scoring a goal, dons a mask or similar item, must be Cautioned.