Welcome to the Haarlem Cup, August 4-7 2010

The Haarlem Cup is regarded one of Europe's leading international soccer tournaments. The year 2010 marks the 26th annual edition. This tournament is an initiative of Expersport in cooperation with several soccer clubs from the towns of Haarlem, Amsterdam and surroundings. The tournament will be played on first class grass soccer pitches as well as new FIFA approved artificial grass pitches, spread over different locations. All teams need to have transportation during their stay.

Tournament Format

All teams will play in groups of 4, 5 or 6 teams. All teams in 1 group play each other once on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The group winners may also play quarterfinals and/or semi-finals on Friday to determine who will play the final on Saturday August 7th. All teams play a guaranteed minimum of 3-5 tournament games (depending on number of teams in the group). The organization reserves the right to make adjustments to the above mentioned tournament format. Please note that the tournament format for each age group may differ.

Age Dispensation

It is possible to obtain permission for age dispensation. Age dispensation should be applied for in writing and the application must be confirmed by the organization before June 15th, 2010.

Dispensation players can never be more than 6 months too old. A total of 3 dispensation players per team is allowed. Due to different age deadlines - handled by national soccer associations - the tournament committee may grant special dispensations for teams/players involved.

The official dispensation confirmation for the dispensation players must be shown on request of the tournament committee or referee at any time during the tournament. All game committees know the names of the dispensation players.

Please note players are not allowed to be more than 2 years younger than the age group they will play in. If these players do want to participate, they will need an official letter from their club stating they will play at their own risk and responsibility.

Identification and Prove of Age

On request of the tournament committee all Haarlem Cup participants must be able to identify themselves by official identification papers (passport or other official legal documents) which include their name, age and photograph. Dutch players (from D13 and older age groups) must be able to show their KNVB federation passes.

Referees and Linesmen

Referees are assigned by the organizing club on the venue of your matches. The tournament will be played according to the regulations of the K.N.V.B. (Royal Dutch Soccer Federation) except for cases as mentioned specifically in the tournament regulations. All teams (in all age groups) have to bring their own linesman.

Team Uniforms

Teams are advised to bring spare uniforms in a different colour. If colours of uniforms are too similar to the discretion of the referee, teams listed first in the game schedule have to change to colours distinctive from their opponent.

Trophies, Medals & Pennants

A trophy and personal medals will be handed to the numbers 1 and 2 of the finals. All players will receive a personal Haarlem Cup tournament pennant at registration.

Team Leaders Meeting

At the team leaders meeting on Tuesday evening August 3rd you will be informed about the latest information regarding the tournament program. During this meeting you can ask any questions that are left regarding the program, regulations and other tournament issues. Two team leaders per team are welcome at this meeting.

About Transportation

All teams require transportation. Teams that do not have their own transportation can book this through the tournament organization. Conditions and prices on request. Transportation must be booked before June 15th, 2010.