Apparently we are going to get some leeway on the matter for this year. The following is from the referee coordinator for District V (Golden Gate to Oregon) Vince Seiren Everyone, This is not to take effect this year. What we are to do is to note the lack of sleves on the game card. Let the girls play!!!When we hear something different I will let everyone know.

Intent of the Rule Change: The requirement that "jerseys must have sleeves" is intended to deter player efforts to alter their jersey in any way.

Guidelines for Enforcing this Rule: The sleeve must be recognizable as a genuine extension of the armhole of the uniform shirt being worn and able to perform the function of a sleeve commonly accepted in everyday wear.

Players may not alter their uniform by cutting off the sleeve or shortening it significantly. Referees are asked to call player attention to these requirements if uniforms are altered, just as they would if shirts were not tucked in or socks not pulled up.

Details regarding jerseys which have no sleeves or shortened sleeves should be included in the referee's match report submitted to the competition authority. However, since this is not a safety issue, a team or an individual player must not be prevented from playing solely for this reason.

Finally, as a member of FIFA, we are obliged to follow their rule changes, however, we ask that you use common sense and good judgement on the application of this rule change.

FUNdamental readers your comments on this and other discussions of the 'youth laws of the game' are welcome…!