Todd Abraham
C. Cliff McCrath
If you have a question about or need an interpretation of the NCAA Soccer Rules, you’ve come to the right place. Two NISOA Hall of Famers, long time NCAA Soccer Secretary-Rules Editor, C. Cliff McCrath, Corey Rockwell (current NISOA Senior Director of Education) and NISOA National Rules Interpreter Todd Abraham are active contributors here. Please follow the following guidelines before posting your question:
- Read the current NCAA Soccer Rules book (available on the Forms page of our site).
- Do not post questions regarding issues of referee judgement.
- Do not post specific game details ( i.e. home team, match date, etc.) with your question, if your question happens to be about something you saw during an intercollegiate soccer game.
All questions are subject to editorial review. This is offered as a service to NISOA membership for educational purposes, with the expressed understanding that only the NCAA Soccer Secretary-Rules Editor (Ken Andres) can provide an official rule interpretation.
There is a discrepancy between the “NCAA Soccer 2010 and 2011 Rules and Interpretations” and the “Comparative Study of Rules and Laws”, 2011 edition regarding Facemasks. The “Comparative Study” indicates that “Facemasks not permitted”, where the “rules” do not mention facemasks, at all.
This makes me question the validity of other areas of this ‘quick reference” guide.
Obviously, we should use the 2010 and 2011 Rules and Interpretations, as out definitive guide.
I could not find a location for new interpretations or corrections, on the NISOA site. Does such a location exist, that we should check regularly?
Ed et al: Any discrepancy determinded by collateral publciations require attention and corrections to the latter. The NCAA rules and interpretations take precedence AND ARE THE ONLY AUTHORITATIVE RULINGS that are to be followed in any disputed matter. It is assumed that there will be occasional misunderstandings because parallel publications are produced without unilateral programming or oversight. It is important to note that the NCAA rules and interpretations, historically, do not provide “shopping lists” of all items addressed in a given rule. (Example: Artificial noisemakers, various types of jewelry, etc.) Further, when a given item is NOT identified, the answer is provided by the Secretary-Rules Editor who is appointed to provide such interpretations between annual meetings. To wit, face masks are NOT prohibited – specifically – in Rule 4.5.4 and, therefore, may be considered acceptable to the referee on a game-by-game basis. There have been significant improvements in the quality of face mask construction many, of which, now comprise pliable – and safe – materials. Every effort should be made to allow players to play if what they wear does not constitute danger to themselves or others.
Can soccer be played legally on a crowned football field?What is the allowance between the highest elevation on the field?
Would it be possible to elaborate on Rule 10.11 Lightning Safety Policy, Expiration of Time? The context and example read to me as though there’s a 3 hour window, but I’d like a bit more information if you were to have multiple delays.
Paul: Please review Rule 1.18 in the 2010-11 rules and interpretations.
Joe: The best example is: A game begins at 2:00pm…at 2:47 lightning stikes and the game is suspended because of the elements. If the game can be restarted it must restart prior to 5:00pm. At 5:01pm the time has exceeded the total of two 90-minute games. Hope this helps.
When must a ball be released on a throw-in? I had a coach ask me this question and looked it up. I the link – http://nisoa.com/about-us/instructional-articles/interscholastic-instruction/soccer-by-the-rules-thow-in-basics/
it states “The throw has to start behind the head, come over the head and then release the ball.” The coach wanted us to call foul throws because they felt the other team was holding on to the ball farther than “over their head”. I looked it upo in the rule book at half (as I told the coach I would) and found nothing that specified when the release should occur.
The release is to occur after the ball has come from behind the head and has total gone past the front of the head (forehead). At the time of the release, both hands must have been in contact with the ball and both feel must be on the ground.
This is for interscholastic soccer and the interpretation was made by the NFHS rules editor
Under Rule 5.4.1, the referee’s pregame duties include surveying the field conditions for safety purposes.
The rulebook further states that “violations involving field conditions, uniforms, equipment or other items shall be reported immediately to the appropriate governing sports authority and, if possible, necessary changes or repairs shall be made before the contest.”
Can a referee abandon a match before the game due to a very old turf field that he/she deems unplayable?
yes. The referee has this authority
Cliff,
It’s my understanding that a red card offense or any unusual occurancce while the game is in the hands of the officials are to be submitted to the Athletic Directors at each school. Is that no longer the case> was a NISOA official for many years.
Cliff you “might” rememberme when I was on the NCAA National committee and you brought SPU to play UMSl inn STL
Ejections are reported to Brian Crossman for statistical purposes. Fighiting incidents must be reported to the athletic director through the regional representative.
A school in the process of changing their football field from grass to turf paints soccer lines on the field. The field’s width is less than 65 yards. Does this field meet NCAA regulations? The football field has existed for many years. Prior to this recent change in 2010 of surface the field had never been used as a soccer field.
The rules:
The field in question is NOT LEGAL – because it has not hosted a soccer game!
If it hosted a soccer game prior to September 1995:
It need only be rectangular the width of which cannot exceed the length.
Hey Cliff, I am from a North East chapter in NY referee association around the capital district.
Situation- Both teams are on the pitch in their assigned positions on the field. Just before the kick off the home team coach wanted to replace a player with another player, which he did. Is this to be considered a substitution for the player coming off the field or is this a no harm no issue because play had not started?
I could not find any information on this in the rule book. Thank you for you time. respectfully, Joseph Kokerank.
Legal. This is not a substitution as the game has not started. See Rules 3.4, 3.6 and 8.2.
Kenneth G. Andres, Jr.
NCAA Soccer Secretary-Rules Editor
I had a referee friend make the following statement regarding pass-backs to a keeper in High School Soccer:
“Deflections or mis-hits should never be deemed as deliberate directly to the keeper or to an area where the keeper can play the ball with their hands.”
ART. 3 . . . On any occasion when a player deliberately kicks the ball to his/her own goalkeeper, the goalkeeper is not permitted to touch it with his/her hands.
The key to me seems to be intent, but the wording being “deliberately” makes one question what my friend called “mis-hits” (I agree with the deflections part). I assume he means a kick that did not go where you wanted it to go or not at the pace you wanted it to have. I would argue that if the player tried to kick the ball the intent was there, as we apply the rule in the college game based on the official interpretations, but “deliberately kicks the ball to his/her own goalkeeper” carries what seems to me to be another meaning all together for the High School gane. Any advice on this that would clarify this rule on the high school level would be very helpful.
Per the NFHS Secretary Rules Editor:
Rule 12-7-3 is correctly stated below. The kick to the goalkeeper by a teammate must be deliberate. The writer indicates that intent is the “key” to this rule, and he is correct. The official must decide if the teammate of the goalkeeper intended to kick the ball to the goalkeeper. The writer incorrectly states that a deflection cannot be a deliberate kick to the goalkeeper.
Example: A teammate deliberately kicks the ball to the goalkeeper but on the way to the goalkeeper, the ball skips off the back let of an opponent and goes directly to the keeper. The opponent did not play the ball and, in fact, did not see it coming. If the goalkeeper touches the ball with his/her hands, it is a foul.
A miss-hit would be a kick that was intended to go somewhere else but goes directly to the keeper. If the keeper touches the ball with the hands, it is not a foul and play will continue because the ball was not deliberately kicked to the keeper.
Here are two examples of miskicks that went to the keeper but were not fouls:
1. Player A is in 10 yards into Team B’s side of mid-field. Player A passes the ball back to a team A player who misses the ball. The ball rolls to the Team A goalkeeper who picks up the ball with the hands. This is not a foul because Player A did not intend to kick the ball to goalkeeper A.
2. There is a strong wind and team A is kicking into the wind – a goal kick by a team A player travels outside the penalty area, but is blown back into the penalty area by the wind. The ball is picked up by goalkeeper A. There is no foul because the ball was not deliberate kicked to the goalkeeper.
Thanks for clearing that up.
First off Cliff thank you again for attending our Clinic in San Antonio in July, I really enjoyed the session! Now onto business. Question on rule 13.1. If ref stops clock for a foul and to issue a cuation can the team who was fouled restart without the ref blowing whistle? I read 13.1.1 where it states a whistle is only required for a kick off, penalty kick and when the ref indicates play to start on his whistle. I would hope that by stopping the clock for a caution the ref would indicate to the world that the restart is on his whistle but I wanted to see if he didn’t let all parties know the restart was on his whistle. If player restarts, goal is scored off of restart would goal stand if ref did not specifically indicate restart on his whistle when stopping clock and issuing caution.
The rule in question is addressed by Rule 13.2 and 13.2.A.R.13.2.a. and the paragraph prior to the PENALTY…and clearly states that “…as soon as the ball is in position to be played, the referee shall give a signal, which may be a whistle…” In short, the mandate IS a SIGNAL…but the current rule does not mandate that the signal be a whistle. Both Ken and I agree that a proposed rule change be made at the annual meetings which we feel will result is a clarification that requires a whistle after such stoppage.
Cliff Mc Crath
according to FIFA when a penalty kick is been taking the referee MUST use the whistle to indicate the player to take the penalty kick.
I am not familiar with soccer at all but I have to do a project on it and I have a question about the rules of off-season training. Are there any rules about training in off season? Is there a certain amount of time they are allowed to do soccer specific training per week or anything of that nature? I have heard there are rules about preseason training as well. I would just like some clarification about theses rules.
Training and number of out of season games a player can participate in are covered in the NCAA or NAIA rules. You should contact the NCAA office and or the NAIA office to determine what their limitations, if any, are.
Hope this helps.
My son will be entering his High School Freshman year this coming Fall. He plays soccer and receives training from a Division I player once a week and does work on speed and agility with a Division I University trainer twice a week. I pay both of these individuals a nominal fee for their services outside of hours. It has been initiated by us and purely to allow him to better progress and compete regionially on his premier soccer team as well as in the Olympic Development Program (ODP). I see nothing wrong in seeking this added assistance but was curious if there are any rules that would disallow this training. I wouldn’t want to jeopordize either the player or trainer’s status as a player or employee of the university respectively.They are not recruiting him. Is this in violation of any of the NCAA rules for soccer or any other requirement/rule for that matter? Your expeditious response is greatly appreciated.
Your trainer’s University will have a compliance officer on staff in their Athletic Department. You should consult with that individual.
William: Two answers. First, inasmuch as your son is not yet in high school most of the rules regarding “contact” do npot apply. Second, once in high school, there is no rule against and no violation with reference to paying a trainer or others as long as the relationship is not considered an illegal contact – and the person you are paying is an independent contractor as opposed to representing the school. In any event, each insttitution has a Compliance Officer responsible for approving such activities. For your peace of mind, you should contact the CO whose ruling releases you from interpreting the rules. It also places the burden on the institution where is rightfully beliongs. I hope this helps.
Cliff
I have seen the video of the attack a young girl suffer at a soccer game in Carolina by another girl from the other team; then I have seen all the critics, I’ve read that she is or will be charge with felony assault and I wonder where are the leadership from that school or couching staff, that will allowed a violent misconduct act from a player on a game to become a felony assault charge. I believed that the staff should take a more stronger position in controlling the player and applying stronger santions to players, but not letting outside daily living rules to be part of a match, game, competition on any kind of sport. Is this correct?
Comment Moderated. Link to article provided in lieu of full text.
I have a uniform question. I have a coach who want to know if his away uniform meets the standard.
royal blue top, white shorts and royal blue socks
Paul – This should be no problem under NCAA Rule 4.
I was looking over the refresher test for 2012 and came upon a reference of AR5.6.1 and I can’t find that in the Rules Book, what am I missing?
I can see how this confused you. It is in the 2012-13 Rule Book which you have not received as of yet.
I have a question regarding an incorrect answer I received on the NISOA National Certification Test. Question # 47 states ” The referee allows half time to be shortened to 10 minutes by mutual consent of the coaches, however during the interval, the coach for team A requests the full 15 minutes and the referee does not grant the request. A protest may be filed and upheld “.
Since Rule 7.2 clearly allows for the adjustment of the half time interval I wonder what the rationale is that would allow a protest to be upheld ?? I know it can be protested, but cannot understand on what grounds it would be upheld…I look forward the hearing from you on this…….
Per the secretary rules editor once the agreement is made it can not be changed unless both parties agree
I can’t seem to find the policy on a Referee being injured before the season, and “Going inactive” for a year, thus being able to use all the money spent on dues, etc….to be applied to the following year?? Is there a policy in place? Thx. Dave
For 2012 you can go inactive which is $40. The balance of your National dues would be refunded. You can then register for 2013 without any problems.
Ken,
At this weekends NISOA National Referee clinic in Jacksonville, we discussed Rule 12.6.1.1, “a player , coach, or bench personnel shall be ejected if he or she is guilty of fighting or leaves the coaching area to participate in an altercation.” Specifically, the rule here uses the verb “participate” without further clarification as to if that participation is in restoring order or escallating the altercation. Therefore any participation requires EJECTION.
Further clarification to this is Rule 12.6.1.2 in which a “coach” or “team representative” may leave the team area in an attempt to restore order. Unfortunately, Rule 3.2 does not further define “team representative” as inclusive or exclusive of players, but it appears to classify rostered individuals as either (1) players, (2) coaches, or (3) other bench personnel.
Generally speaking, I imagine “other bench personnel” could be trainers, managers, statisticians, assistant coaches, athletic directors, and administrators. And, I assume these “other bench personnel” (Rule 3.2) are the same individuals considered “team representatives” in Rule 12.6.1.1 and 12.6.1.2.
So the clarification requested is, if PLAYERS listed on the official NCAA game roster leave the coaching area to “partipicate” in an altercation are they required to be ejected or does the referee have the further responsibility to determine if those players were attempting to restore order – in which no misconduct has occured.
I certainly would appreaciate any assistance in restoring order during an altercation; however, my concern with the possible interpretation is that if player are permitted to help restore order, that could easily become an encouragement for student-athletes of both teams to leave the coaching area during an altercation, and then the referee crew would be responsibile for determining the intent and actions of upwards of 60 persons during an altercation. Certainly altercations are easier for referees to manage with fewer individuals participating.
My recommendation is that 12.6.1.2 be clarified to include “coaches” and “other bench personnel,” but, specifically exclue “players.” Your consideration and clarification is greatly appreciated.
Thanks and PLAY ON!
Paul Fulks
The NCAA rule book states that rule 4 says that face masks are not permitted and it is restated in the comparisons between USSF laws and High School rules, “face masks not permitted”. The real question is, “are the molded medical face protectors considered face masks?” Please clarify if a player can ever wear a face mask/protector in a NCAA soccer match.
Thank you,
Michael Rennick
Eastern New York NISOA
From: Ken Andres, NCAA SRE:
There is no blanket prohibition against wearing a molded medical face protector.
R.4.5.1 prohibits the wearing of any article which is “dangerous.” This a determination which must be made by the referee on a case-by-case basis.
I am trying to understand the re-entry rules and it is not clear to me whether re-entry is “at any stoppage of play“ or “during the run of play“. The four (4) examples from the 2012 – 2013 rule book seem to contradict each other.
In each case the assumption is that the player off the field is not substituted for and the normal re-entry rules for field players and goal keepers are adhered to.
3.5.3.1 … may be substituted for and re-enter the game in any period (after being beckoned by the referee) at any stoppage of play or at any of the allowable times for normal substitutions…
3.5.3.2 … and may re-enter the game (after being beckoned by the referee) at any stoppage of play or at any of the allowable times for normal substitution…
3.5.3.4 … may re-enter the game (after being beckoned by the referee) during the run of play or at any stoppage of play, including times for normal substitutions
5.6.7.1 … may re-enter the game (after being beckoned by the referee) during the run of play or at any stoppage of play, including times for normal substitutions.
A “stoppage in play” includes “dead ball situations” and when the ball is off the field of play, including normal substitution opportunities.
“During the run of play” means the ball is “live” and play is progressing
This is from Ken Andres SRE
Right. I am not confused about the definitions of “stoppage of play”, “dead ball situations”, nor “during the run of play”.
However, the first two situations (3.5.3.1 and 3.5.3.2) mention only “stoppage of play or at any of the allowable times for normal substitutions”, they do NOT mention “during the run of play”. Since they do NOT mention “run of play” am I therefore supposed to assume that the first two situations are different that the last two situations (3.5.3.4 and 5.6.7.1) each of which DO mention “run of play” as a legal opportunity to bring the player back into the game?
If that is the case, how are the situations different, they seem to be very much alike (injured player etc), and what is the differentiator that allows the re-entry “during run of play” vs. not?
In 3.5.3.1 and 3.5.3.2, the injured player was substituted for, and therefore cannot re-enter during the run of play.
In 3.5.3.4 and 5.6.7.1 the injure player was not substituted for and can enter during the run of play.
Are protective face-masks allowed? (For injuries received to cheek or nose)
face masks are not prohibited per Ken Andres
The referee must decide if they are dangerous if so they can not be worn
I know earlier this year a proposal was made to increase the width of the field from 70-75 yards to 65-80 yards. The new rulebook I have still contains the 70-75 yard width, did the proposal get rejected when it went to PROP?
per Ken Andres, the NCAA determined not to consider this
In regards to the rule change for Rule 15…. If on a throw in the ball fails to enter the field of play I think we agree that the ball is not in play. So if the ball is not in play, why are we giving the throw in to the opponent? I understand the rationale given but what about a goal kick that doesn’t clear the penalty area or the ball is played by a teammate prior to clearing said area. One can use this for time wasting and gamesmanship and waste more time on this than on a throw in.
The Committee chose the throw-in inasmuch as it is the prime suspect for delay tactics; the goal kick is harder to fake and subject to more immediate detection.
Player A1 is in an offside position. Player A2 passes the ball towards player A1 but player B1 is between the two A players. As the ball is passed to A1, B1 has time to kick the ball away but the ball is mis-kicked and goes to A1. Is A1 offside?
A1 is offside. The fact that B1 had an opportunity to stop the pass is irrelevant. A1 was in an offside position at the time of the pass and gained an advantage by being offside. Had he not been in an offside position, he would not have been able to receive the ball from B1’s miskick.
Thank you for visiting nisoa.com. Your question is subject to “the opinion of the referee.” It is not possible to give an official determination to your question.
how many players can dress or be on a roster for divsion 3 soccer
There is no NCAA restriction on roster limits during the regular season except those school and/or conference may impose. NCAA limits for postseason play can be found under Championships at NCAA.org.
A player leaves the field for injury and the coach chooses not to replace him/her and play short a man. Few minutes later the coach decides to replace the injured player with a substitute. When is the substitute allowed to come in? During the play when beckoned by the referee, at a stopage of play or or at a legal substitution.
Thank you
The sub may enter at the next stoppage of play provided that the sub has checked in. (AR 3.4.9.a)
Rule A.R.3.4.9.a: Provided the substutute has checked in, at the next stoppage of play or any allowable times for substitution.
In CT. our NFHS interpretor has told us that the state of Ct. has legislation that clears us (officials) from following Rule 3 Section 3 Art1c3 “Any player “shall not return to play until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional.
If the coach puts his player back in the match, its not up us to know that an approprite health-care professional is there. We assume that the rule is followed, as its up to the coach.
Two questions 1.Does the CT. legislation apply to NCAA matches played in CT.with regard to Rule 3.5.3.2?
2.In your opinion can an official be liable should the coach have a player re-enter the match without knowing or having an appropriate health-care professional / team physician or his or designee at the site?
Pursuant to NCAA R. 5.4.2, officials are obligated to enforce the rules, without exception.
R. 3.5.3.2, which is a rule specifically designed for the safety of the players who may have suffered a concussion, is clear and must be enforced.
The failure of the referee to enforce this rule does expose the entire officiating team to potential civil liability for damages.
Mr. Andres,
At our local NISOA chapter meeting we were discussing the rule related to possible concussion of a player.
It was clear through our reading that a goalkeeper who suffers a “normal injury/illness” could be evaluated and treated on the field of play. The paragraph which addressed blood injuries and concussions made no special distinction for the goalkeeper. It was my contention that in such cases the goalkeeper could not be treated on the field of play and had to be removed and treated. Others thought that the new concussion rule had just not yet “caught up” with the other provision which exempted the goalkeeper from being treated on the field, and that this exemption should apply to all injuries.
What is the correct ruling?
Please refer to Cliff McCrath’s response at this link. Thank you.
In an NCAA Division 2 match, we had a situation in the penalty area. The red team attacked on goal and took a shot from inside the penalty area. The shot missed goal and went out of play for a goal kick. A defender for the white team came late and tackled the opponent from behind; suitable for a yellow card, but not a red card. Again, the ball was already out of play.
The defender was cautioned and we restarted with a goal kick. Both coaches said the restart should be a penalty kick. Even though the ball was out of play, they insisted that “any misconduct in the penalty area must restart with a penalty kick” under college rules. The coach of the red team was going to protest if his team lost.
We scratched our heads in the post-game debriefing (along with our assessor) and I can’t find any ruling that says we did it wrong.
Jason: Sorry if this is a little late; we’re working out the formula to ensure a balance between items Ken, as NCAA SRE, should answer directly and those I will address as manager of the “Ask” on our NISOA site. That notwithstanding, the answer to your question is: NO PENALTY KICK. The ball was out of bounds BEFORE the dangerous tackle which can be punished by a cautuin or ejection. See Rule A.R. 12.3.3 for comparable situation. Restart is a goal kick.
At our last local chapter meeting a rules question came up that I am looking to clear up.
NCAA Rule 3.5.3.1 relates to standard injuries, it stipulates that the Goalkeeper may be evalauated and treated on the field of play and is not required to leave when trainers are brought on to treat the injured keeper.
NCAA Rule 3.5.3.2 relates to bleeding/possible concussion injuries. I do not note any similar exception for the goalkeeper established here. It is my interpretation on reading this rule that the goalkeeper must leave the field of play when the GK is bleeding or shows signs of concussion until they stop bleeding or in the latter case are cleared by the appropriate level medical person and they may not return until that happens.
Some members of the chapter felt that the latter rule had not caught up with the former and that the intent of the 3.5.3.1 should apply with cases from 3.5.3.2 – I did not agree.
What is the correct ruling?
Answer: Bleeding injuries require the player(s) to exit the field untiil proof exists that the bleeding and/or blood on the uniform has been eliminated. Certain rules supercede others – example A.R. 5.6.3.c. When a player is guilty of two infringements the more serious is penalized.
Cliff,
Thank you for your reply. But I am still unclear as to the specific case I have referenced.
I will rephrase:
Player A1, a goalkeeper, collides with an opponent as part of a fair play, and subsequently the referee determines that the goalkeeper is exhibiting signs of a concussion (or possible concussion). The referee stops the game immediately and summons the trainer to the field. Is the referee required to force the goalkeeper to leave the field of play until an approved medical person confirms that the goalkeeper does not have a concussion? OR Can the referee permit the goalkeeper to stay on the field and allow the keeper to be assessed by the medical person on the field of play while the game is suspended?
Steve: The first order of business is to follow the primary rule which permits the ATC to assess the situation on the field. However, if the referee judges that the GK – or any other player – is showing signs of a concussion – THE PLAYER SHALL LEAVE THE FIELD TO BE EXAMINED/ASSESSED/EVALUATED by the designated medical personnel. The first ‘contact’ by the ATC can be preempted by the referee if he/she deems the player in a concussive state and instruct the ATC/Coach/player to leave.
Cliff and Ken: This past weekend we had a difficult question from a coach that was not covered by the rules or ARs.
The coach asked if a field player could exit during the 1st half or Overtime, but re-enter during the same period as a goalie?
If the field player is allowed re-enter the game as a goalie in the 1st half or Overtime, would the goalie be able to switch with another field player and become a field player again?
These were questions asked by a coach before the contest began, but did not become an issue during the match.
Thanks,
Roger Street
Roger: Illegal. The goalkeeper may reenter as a goalkeeper but not as a field player. The field player – on the field -who replaces the goalkeeper (who may be injured) becomes the goalkeeper of record and ONLY then may exit and return as a goalkeeper one time each period.
NOTE: If I understand correctly, what the coaches might have been conjuring up was a nuance whereby Field Player A replaces the goalkeeper, then later exits the game only to reenter the game as a goalkeeper (allowed) after which the coach sends in a different GK substitute for Field Player A/Goalkeeper who stays in the game as field player while a different field player exits.Clever manipulation of the rule but NOT illegal. It is a scenario the Rules Committee will take a hard look at next February. It also might qualify as TRICKERY whereby the referee who sniffs it out might be well within his/her jurisdiction to disallow and not permit Field Player/GK A to reenter (except in the second period when any field player may reenter once.
One more part: Player X is substituted during the 1st Half/OT period. Can Player X re-enter as a goalkeeper in the 1st Half/OT?
Thanks.
Roger: Not legal. The reentry rule is position-specific and applies only to the goalkeeper who begins the given period as a goalkeeper. See Rules 3.5.1 (Field Players) and 3.5.2 (Goalkeepers)
In a Men’s Varsity game, Coach insisted that we let his 5 year old son be a ball boy ‘directly behind’ the goal. He insisted that the rule said it is was a “recommendation” that the people be 10 years old, not a requirement. He was insistent that it was the school administration’s choice of who to select as ball people. He assured me that his son was properly trained and had done this before. His insistence was that “I was not reading the rules correctly” and he was allowed to use a 5 year old if they were trained.
Realizing that the referee has a final approval…. (we did not allow the boy for safety)
Q: How is the rule interpreted 1) Recommend 4 people who ARE 10 years old, or 2) Recommend 4 people. Recommend 10 years old.
Rule 6.5 is an administrative rule so technically, the coach can do it but must have opponent’s prior, written, mutual consent. Cannot ‘spring’ it on him/her at game time.
this actually took place…Player A is seen barking, snorting and clucking three times at an opponent during the first half of play in what I determine to be an unfair advantage in playing some 50/50 balls, I approach coach from team A in a quiet moment and explain that I consider player A’s behavior to be “unsporting”. Coach team A reports that player A has Tourettes. Do I still caution even though it might in fact be a medical scenario? Can I ask player A about his medical condition? What should we do about any cursing that might go along with a diagnosis of Tourettes?
Marc: This is a new one with no easy answer. Tim Howard, US GK – and #1 for EPL Everton – has Tourette Syndrome and takes medication for it. What we do know is the ‘subject’ – i.e. victim – should not be pressured and under no circumstances embarrassed – example cautioned or confronted…it is best to call time out, approach the coach and handle the matter gently. Most victims of the disease are aware and take medication prior to the game; however, it is possible to forget. Another successful approach has been to calmly approach the victim and ask “Is everything all right or…”are you okay…” I wish you well.
Attacker A breaks away with ball into the opponent’s area where he is confronted by Defender C. Defender C fairly wins the ball, although Attacker A falls to the ground. Defender C passes the ball outside the area to Defender D and then moves up the field away from the goal area. Defender D takes several dribbles up the field where he is confronted by Attacker B. Defender D attempts a long pass up the field, but Attacker B sticks a foot in and deflects the ball back towards D’s goal. Attacker A, recovered from his earlier fall, collects the ball and scores past the keeper, the only defender between him and the goal.
Is the goal allowed or disallowed because Attacker A was offside?
Pursuant to R. 11.2 , this is offside and no goal. The player was in an offside position when the ball was played forward to him/ her by a teammate.
Ken Andres
NCAA Soccer Secretary Rules Editor
I have finished reviewing the new AO update on Arbiter and find some confusing info. First it refers to “Fourth Official” in places and also to a “Technical Area”. These are FIFA terms, not NCAA. It also says that subs cannot enter until exiting player is off. (See Sec. 4) Is this a new procedure? Again, it seems to be a FIFA rule. Finally, at the end of the paper it details referee responsabilites for caution and ejection, not AO duties. Please review the paper
Don: You are correct about the disinction between the NCAA and FIFA which behooves referees to study the NCAA rules for proper terminolgy and definition. NCAA terminology is “Alternate Official” and “Technical Area” is “Coaching and Team Areas” As for substitution entry the waiting player(s) can enter as soioin as the referee beckons – even as the departing player is exiting…which nust be at the halfway line. Need a little more input regarding your concern about caution and ejection???
Thanks Cliff – That’s my opinion as to when a sub may enter. The new AO ditective is in error, however, in requiring te AO to wait until the exditing player leaves the field before allowing the sub on. Such new disseminated materials need more vetting before they are released in my opinion.
Don: I continue to advocate that we (NISOA) needs a 1-2 day ftf task force/summit event where we – in the most positive and uplifting way – take NISOA apart piece-by-piece – and put it back together in the most seamless, workable form. There are simply too many fuzzy areas…this being one of them. Forward march!
In the new AO Update, it says that the AO should make sure that “non-game balls are put away”. Is this a new requirement?
It has bugged me for years, but I don’t recall this ever being addressed in the NCAA Rule Book.
Thanks.
There is no NCAA rule and/or requirement for the AO to insist non-game balls be put away. It is at the discretion if not common sense to insure such be done. What is in place – for postseason play – is a Championship site formula mandating that only sponsor balls (Wilson) be used in the games.
Cliff, Ken,
FIFA just issued a change regarding tape on socks (must be same color).
USSF has incorporated it into the current season.
I see no mention in the NCAA 2012-2013 Rules, nor in the Rules Clarifications for 2012 (Posted 8/28/12)
Yet I hear “talk” that says it is.
Can you please clarify, and point us to any specific documentation.
Thanks,
-carl jones
The NCAA does not require that tape on socks must be the same color as the socks.
Ken Andres
NCAA Soccer Secretary Rules Editor
Does the the NCAA have the requirement on free kicks that the ball must be put into play using a kicking motion of the foot, rather than merely touched or rolled? USSF has such a requirement (Advice 13.5).
Thanks.
Bob: I am quite sure I repled to this earlier but just in case: NCAA rules require that the ball merely be touched with the exceptions of the kickoff and penalty kick. See Rule 13 A.R. 13.2.a. – last sentence in the paragraph following the bold word: RULING
Looking for an official interpretation. USSF changed it’s stance on advantage applying only to fouls. Situation in a recent college game, player A comes from offside position into a pack of players, wins a header back to his teammate player B. Flag is up, but referee initially misses it, as it’s not an obvious offside situation. Player B coughs up the ball and opponents have an advantage advancing into attacking third as referee realizes the flag is up and whistle is blown. Could advantage be applied to this situation per NCAA rules?
Per 5.4.3 – The referee shall, however, refrain from penalizing in cases in which he or she is satisfied that by doing so an advantage would be given to the offending team. When the referee observes a foul that is not to be penalized, the referee shall call out the words “play on” and signal accordingly to indicate that the foul has been acknowledged. However, if the advantage does not materialize, the referee shall then blow the whistle and award a free kick.
I do not read this as specifying only toward fouls, as the terminology “penalize” is used throughout the NCAA rule book. Looking for a clarification. Thanks in advance.
Joe: To avoid confusion I’ll ‘pass’ on comments re FIFA’s stance. Your interpretation of 5.4.3 is correct and can be applied to the example you have set forth in the the first paragraph.
Thanks for the quick reply. Only offered the FIFA scenario since it’s clearly defined and maybe this is something that can be added to the NISOA/NFHS/USSF rules differences chart. Thank again for the clarity.
Joe – we will do just that. Thanks for your input. Best wishes to you.
I have a question regarding conflicting rules between NCAA/NAIA on one hand and NJCAA on the other. NJCAA schools play by NCAA rules with some exceptions, the most notable being unlimited reentry for substitutes. Is there an official position regarding which rules prevail when NJCAA schools play NCAA/NAIA schools?
NAIA has a bylaw requiring their members to play games according to NCAA rules. Two-year school games do not count as regualrly scheduled games when playing NCAA schools so they could be exhibition in nature and any rules agreed on by the coaches may apply.
Two substitution situations involving our chapter.
1. A player from each team has checked in prior to the ball crossing the end line for a corner kick. The attacking team decides to pull their player from the table and not sub. That player is charged with a substitution. The question is may the opponents sub at this point? There was no actual substitution, but there was a charged substitution.
2. Clock is stopped to check a defending player for a potential injury with the subsequent restart being a throw-in or a CK for the attackers. There was no one at the table when the clock was stopped. The defender, at first, says she can stay in the match. The referee is about to restart play when the defender changes her mind and says that she is unable to continue. The defending team runs a sub up to the table to check in and she enters the field as the injured player leaves. At this point, the attacking team sends up a player to sub. Is this sub allowed?
Steve: Answer to Question #1:The opponents may substitute at this time ONLY if the substitute had checked in prior to the time when substitutions are allowed. See Rule 3.6.1 “…be ready to enter the game BEFORE the time when substitutions are allowed…” Answer to Question #2:: First, the injured player’s replacement DOES NOT have to be at the table ready to enter due to the injury issue; however, the opposing team player CANNOT ENTER at that time becuase he/she had NOT checked in and was not ready to enter BEFORE the opportunity for substitution occurred. EXCEPTION: After a goal is scored or between periods players are not required to “be ready”. (NOTE: As NISOA liaison to the Rules Committee, I will suggest the Committee study these other exceptions since there are common elements to the situation you describe. For the moment, Rule 3.6.1 must be followed explicitly).
Thanks for the quick response Cliff. The confusion for situation #2 comes from 3.4.9. The current rules book has a note which says the opposing team may substitute an equal number at the same time. It doesn’t say that the player must be checked in prior to the injury. The notes that are added for 3.4.2 and 3.4.3 referring to 3.6 are not present for 3.4.9. This suggests that the sub may come from the bench. I guess the issue is, does the timing of the injured player’s decision to remove herself before the restart and the team’s choice to replace her give the opponent’s the option to sub an equal number because of the injury substitution?
Steve: Understand your question and grant that because the injured player’s replacement is allowed to enter from the bench the opposing team option should allow the same. In these cases the interpretation will have to come from Ken albeit when a rule does not provide a clear-channel application to a variable of the rule, the answer is extrapolated from the primary rule. In this case the answer reverts to the principle (Rule 3.6) meaning that – as inequitable as it seems – the injured team replacement gets to enter without “being ready”, whereas the opposing substitute is bound by the letter of the law…or, in this case, the “missing” letter of the law. NOTE: Ken, as NCAA SRE – charged with the responsibility (and authority) for providing interpretations between annual meetings – may choose to issue an exception and rule that the opponent gets to enter without being ready.
Ken or Cliff, Is there any rule in the by laws of how far the opponent must stand away from a throw-in.
All it states is that the player does not move in an attempt to interfere with the throw-in. (A.R.15.2.b)
George: There is no specific rule other than what might be considered the “rule of common sense” which, providing the opponent complies with Rule A.R.15.2.b, is at the referee’s discretion.
Cliff or Ken: I think I’m getting myself confused with goalkeepers allowances and handling the ball. If the GK is standing inside their own penalty box but reaches outside the box for the ball last touched by an attacker and picks it up would that still be considered a ‘hand ball’ which would result in a direct free kick?
thanks..
Donna: Answer is YES. The position of the ball determines what decision prevails. I think we all know Rule A.R. 10.4.a. whereby the GK on his/her own goal line, catches the ball and, in an attempt to throw the ball carries it over the goal line, IT IS A GOAL. By the same token, the GK reaching across the penalty area to “handle” the ball is guilty of illegal handling which the referee shall penalize with a direct kick – from the spot of the incident – to the opposing team. Note: If such an act constitutes denying an obvious goal scoring opportunity the goalkeeper shall be ejected.
USSF lists as one of the cautionable offenses “Verbally distract an opponent during play or at a restart”. An example is when an opponent ceases to make a play on the ball when the player calls out “Mine!”.
The opponent thinks that it is his teammate wanting the ball.
I have read thru the NCAA Soccer 2012 and 2013 Rules and Interpretations book, and cannot find a direct reference to this as being a cautionable offense. The closest reference might be 12.5.5 on page 58,
Baiting.
What is your judgment when a player does not identify who he is when awaiting an air ball, and by his verbal outcry “My ball!”, causes the opponent to cease play?
Warren Woody
Regional Assessor,
Region VI
Warren: Baiting is the closest description for the action (violation?) you describe. The act of calling “mine” instead of “Woody’s ball…” an instruction we, as coaches, instilled in our players thru the years believing it was/is a universal rule everyone understands. We will present this to the Rules Committee for their review at the annual meetings next January.
Can a defender intentionally thigh a ball back to his goalkeeper without getting called for an illegal handling of the ball by GK?
Kevin: Yes. The thigh is not part of the foot.
A player’s cleat comes off during play. The player continues to get involved with the attack and eventually is the one who scores a goal. Legal or not?
The goal is legal providing the referee has not, first, told the player to leave the field for an equioment change (see Rules A.R.3.4.8 et al). With reference to the ‘stream’ of action and applicable rules, please see Rules 4.4 thru 4.5 PENALTY. In short, if the referee does not suspend play to instruct the player to leave the field for an equipment change the player’s culpability applies only if he/she has been instructed to leave the field and blatantly returns – illegally. The problem with this hypothesis is that – albeit not specifically stated in the rules – the return to the match from bleeding injuries, equipment changes, et al, requires beckoning (approval) by/from the referee which presupposes he/she has validated the return. Lacking that, the player is not the one who is likely to voluntarily suspend his/her progress toward goal to announce that his/her cleat is missing.
Cliff or Ken:
Can a coach ejected from an NJCAA game be present on site at his/her team’s next game? Or is the limitation just to the team area and pressbox? Are the limitations the same for NCAA D-1, D-2, and D-3?
Jim Miller
TCSOA
Jim: Any player, coach(es) or bench personnel serving a suspensioin is allowed to attend the game but is “…restricted to the spectator area and prohibited from any communication, contact et al with the team…” (See Rule 12.12.1 for complete ruling.
Cliff/Ken,
I am curious to learn the rules regarding spectator taunting/baiting, specifically relating to this behavior occurring behind the goal for the purpose of distracting the goalkeeper and affecting the outcome of the match. What is considered taunting/baiting? Should spectators be permitted to stand behind the goal and speak directly to the goalkeeper by name? Are artificial noise makers permitted during NCAA competition?
Sincerely,
Reggie Fry
Reggie: Answer to Q #1: See A.R.5.6.1.b…In all collegiate soccer games, the referee determines when and if spectators (who are allowed to be in designated areas – behind restraining lines) – and can suspend the game and direct game administrators to removed them Answer to Q #2: The referee has discretionary power to determine what is/not taunting, bating, etc. Answer to Q #3: Yes, to being able to sit/stand behind goals if those areas are part of the designated spectator areas; no on use of GK’s name if the referee deems it in conflict with Rule 5.6.1.Answer to Q #4: See Rule 5.6.9.
In HS there are certain times during game that coaches are not allowed to ” coach” team . Do same/ some rules apply to NCAA?
Sergio
Sergio: NCAA rules prohibit coaches from coaching under the conditions set forth in Rules 12.11.1; A.R.12.11.1.h; 12.12.1.d,e and 12.14.1 and 2. NOTE: Other than the result of suspensions, there are no selected times during NCAA games when all coaches are not permitted to “coach”.
A goalkeeper commits a reckless challenge on an attacker inside the penalty area. The referee calls a foul, awards a penalty kick, and issues a caution to the goalkeeper.
“3.7.3 Provided the referee is notified in advance, a teammate on the field may
change places with the goalkeeper for the taking of a penalty kick; however,
a goalkeeper substitution from the bench is not permitted.”
Rule 3.7.3 says a goalkeeper substitution from the bench is not permitted. However, rule 3.4.6 says that substitutions are allowed when a player has been cautioned.
“3.4.6 When a player has been cautioned”
Do we allow a substitution for the caution goalkeeper on the penalty kick?
If we do, do we also allow the opposing team to make a single sub as well provided they have checked in at the table already?
If the opposing team is allowed to sub, is that player allowed to take the penalty kick?
TT: As rare as the situation is and, albeit a seeming contradiction, in this case the prima facie rule has to yield to the scenario you have describede and Rule 3.4.6 . In other words, the right of the coach to replace the cautioned goalkeeper – Rule 3.4.6. – takes precedence over Rule 3.7.3. – and.his/her substitute FROM THE BENCH is now the eligible goalkeeper. Further, the opposing team’s allowable substitute is eligible to take the penalty kick. There is a more expansive treatment of the issue – with respect to eligible roster players – in the postseason rulings set forth in Rules 7.1.2.1. and 7.1.2.7.
If in a match the referee issues a second caution to a player and ejects him from the contest. Then with out
going to the sideline to confer with anyone he simply restarts the contest as soon as the player has left the field.
The player is escorted by an assitant off the field and to the locker room.
However when the ejection report arrives at the school the referee has written that before the player left the field the player shoved him.
The player denies the shove, no one else saw a shove and the film does not show one eaither. ( although their is a very breif time when the camera drifts off the referee) why does rule 12—-, the referee shall inform the player(s), the
head coach(s) and the official scorekeeper, not apply? how should a school respond to this and is the player actually
being charged with a violation punishable with a one plus three game suspension?
Wayne: Not all that clear on exactly what your question is but I’ll take a crack at the situaition you have described and will entertain a follow-up question if needed: The referee’s failure to properly report the action on the field does not exempt the player from the penalty nor the suspension(s) that follow. The “second” yellow – albeit for a cautionable action – SHALL BE RED. As for the failure to report it may lead to a sustained protest – for misapplication of the rule – rendered by the NCAA SRE – Ken Andres – but that is his sole responsibility – and authority – should a protest be submitted in a timely manner. The problem with the referee assualt scenario is that by not reporting properly there is de facto no evidence albeit the referee is still within his/her authority to issue such penalties after the game has ended provided it occur before leaving the site of competition.
Thanks for the answer but not sure what it means.
If the game film does not show the player push or touch the referee, if the game anouncers saw no push, if no coach saw a push and if the referee did not follow rule 12 and report the offence to both coaches and the player
how can he then include it in his post game report and seek action.
I allways thought that “shall”” ment must. So if a referee Must do something but does not how can he expect to
be relied on and then his post game observations relied on? Not that any referee would but if a referee could simply, after the fact, accuse anyone of anything while ignoring the rules that govern his on actions then that is really sad and unfortunate.
12.6.1.3 The referee shall inform the player(s), the head coach(s) and the
official scorekeeper, who shall record on the official NCAA box score
form, that an ejection for fighting has been issued.
In the event of an assault on a referee, the referee shall inform the player(s), the
head coach(s) and the official scorekeeper, who shall record on the official NCAA
box score that a push or assualt has happend.the
Wayne: What you describe albeit a failure on the part of the referee, has two sides: 1. If the referee fails to follow the prescribed steps outlined in the rule the rule still stands. (A.R. 5.4.2. What action shall be taken when a referee fails to enforce a specific rule of conduct? RULING: The rule stated in the rules book shall be followed. Exception:See Rule 10.9 Protests) In addition, he/she – even after signing the game report – has the option offered by Rule A.R. 5.6.3.a. May a player be cautioned and/or ejected during an interval between periods or after the completion of a match? RULING: Yes. Moreover, if time remains and the player in question has not been substituted for before the incident occurred or the penalty has been assessed, the team shall play short for the remainder of the game.. The second “side” is that if the referee fails to report and or record any of the facts of the incident then de facto the action never occurred.
Is there a maximum allowed roster size for NCAA D1 Women’s soccer?
Barb: In addition to Ken’s answer i.e. – limits imposed by cjampionship committees – whioch can be foind on the wewbsites e.g. ncaa.org and go to Championships; roster limits also can be imposed by conferences and/or institutions but none is specified in the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules.
Barb – sorry about the typos in the previous message (our Ask website does not have spell check and I failed to double check. In that message please correct as follows: “cjampionship” is “championship; “wewbsites” (funniest of all) is “websites”; “whioch” is “which”; “foind” is “found”
A1 has the ball and pushes it upfield past B1. In an attempt to avoid a tackle from B1, A1 steps outside the touchline and is off the field. B1 continues his motion and fouls down A1. This action takes place about 2-3 feet off the touch line. The ball continues to roll upfield and does not go out of bounds. What is the proper call ? What is the restart ?
Frank: The restart is inside the touchline closest to where the foul occurred (location assisted by where the fallen player left the field of play).
Cliff: The restart would be a direct free kick as a result of the foul ??
Correct unless the referee called it dangerous play. The play you described is clearly a direct kick foul.
Doesn’t a “direct kick foul” have to occur on the field of play?
Frank, Ed and All: The twist with this incident relates to both intent and visual assessment of what occurred. With FIFA rules the narrow interpretation builds from a judgment that the incident occurred “off the field of play”. The way Frank posed the question I viewed the guilty player attempting to foul the player which, clearly, began in the field of play. The fact that the offensive player ‘diverted’ into ‘touch’ to avoid the contact doesn’t change the fact that it all began in the field of play. Further, it was during the ‘run-of-play’ which is different than a GK punching a player outside the touchlines (presumably after play is stopped) after a corner kick was awarded to the attacking team. This is no different that a player who goes over to the bench and strikes another player after play is whistled dead. In this case the misconduct would be addressed but the restart would be dictated by the rule applicable to the first whistle and, therefore, a corner kick. One more point: If the same tackle occurs in the middle of the field the player would be penalized but in no way would the restart be a dropped ball…at least not in NCAA play.
Other references from the NCAA Rules:
Frank, Ed, et al: Further rationale: Please review the following in the 2012-2013 NCAA Rules: Rule 12.3.1; A.R. 12.3.2; 12.3.3. 12.4 and particular reference to 12.4.14; A.R. 12.5.5.a; A.R. 12.6.3; 12.8 – all, of which, pertain to Indirect Free Kicks.
Regarding Penalty kicks during overtime for HS girls – After first 5 members on each team have taken pk’s and score is still tied, referees had 4 new members come out for the ‘sudden death’ pk’s. Team A shot and missed, Team B shot and missed. Team A shot and scored, Team B DID NOT get to shoot. Referee said Team A won…doesn’t Team B get to have 1 player shoot to make it even chances??
Yes, most certainly, even number of PKs is required. He must have been in a hurry to get out of there.
Lori…Morten has answered correctly. It is mandatory that the team shooting second be permitted to shoot if the score is tied and the team shooting first scores in the top of the first sudden victory tiebreaker. The referee’s misapplication of the rules justifies a protest on the part of the ‘losing’ team.
In a recent high school game under NFHS rules the following scenario took place:
Team A takes a corner kick. Ball is ineffectively cleared from in front of the goal by Team B. Team A player who was standing at the approximately the top of the penalty area is able to take a couple of steps into a slow moving ball coming towards her on the ground and launch a hard, rising shot. Team B player standing approximately 5 feet away and in direct path of the ball raises an arm to protect her face. The raised arm is hit by the ball (with sufficient force to knock Team B player backward).
What is the appropriate call under NCAA rules?
Under the NFHS rules this is a clear hand ball. The rules explanations for NFHS include the scenario where a player reflexively protects themselves from a hard hit ball, and provides that in such cases it is a hand ball and a free kick is awarded (PK if is in the penalty area).
Under the USSF Advice to Referees 12.9, this same scenario is expressly NOT a hand ball. The suggested referee response is either silence (since no infraction took place) or “not deliberate” rather than stating “play on” which could be used if an infraction took place.
I have not been able to find an NCAA interpretation which would spell out the correct call when a player reflexively moves their arm or hand in order to protect themselves such as in the above scenario. Can you direct me to an appropriate resource? Thanks for your help.
Nate: The incident described clearly depicts an unintentional reflex movement which would be highly unjust for the referee to resolve with a penalty kick judgment. In the end the ruling falls under “referee judgment” based on the best case scenario of what the referee sees. If you study Rules 12.2.7; 12.3.5 and 12.6.2 you will see clearly that the key element in the final judgment are the words “deliberate, deliberately, etc. Add to that the emphasis in Rules 5.4.2 and 5.4.6 pertaining to the jurisdictional powers of the referee and there should be adequate resource for the referee to make a “just” decision. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the quick reply. It is an interesting issue, and a bit surprising that the high school rule is actually less protective of the player than the USSF interpretation. I also find it interesting that there apparently is no definitive direction to NCAA refs which obviously could easily result in officials taking very different viewpoints based on their own individual interpretation of the word “deliberately”.
Nate: Couldn’t agree with you more. I will ask Ken to put this item on the agenda for next February’s Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules Committee meetings.
what are the div 2 rules for number sizes on jerseys front and back
Gary – the rules for numbering are the same for all collegiate soccer – 4″ on the front of the jersey; 8″ on the back.
Ken, Cliff,
Two D1 schools have agreed (one week prior) to play 30 minutes extra time regardless of outcome of preseason exhibition game. Referees have all been informed. Game is this Saturday 8/24/13
Is this allowable? Are refs covered insurance wise under NCAA/NISOA if anything should go horribly wrong?
Richard: The game is preseason therefore the normal rules are waived. Example, red and yellow cards do not count – albeit you still should give them; substitution rules are waived; OT can be added or waived, etc. Beyond that you are covered by NISOA insurance unless one or more of the referees is a non-NISOA member. Hope this helps.
Are there official rules dictating the format of exhibition games in the NCAA? Specifically, can teams use three 30 minute periods? And is it required that exhibition matches that are tied at the end of 90 minutes go into overtime?
Scott: There are no special rules for exhibition and/or spring games other than those coaches agree upon prior to the game. Preseason scrimmages/games are what coaches use as trial runs and the rules are relaxed. Red/yellow cards DO NOT COUNT albeit the referee should award them where warranted. Otherwise, the only issue is how long the contest should be with reference to the referees’ assignment and what he/she/they agree on in keeping with game fees, time commitments, etc.
Scott: One follow-up item: It is assumed that all the rules – including OT if the game is tied at the end of regulation – be applied in preseason games/scrimmages. However, OT can be waived albeit, normally, the referee and coaches settle this prior to the game beginning.
Wondering if there is a heat index rule for NCAA or NAIA soccer? I can’t find one and in the past just seen coaches and officials work together to take extra breaks. Is there one that I should be aware of? Thanks,
Jason Elliott
Jason: There is no specific rule pertaining to “heat indexes” in the NCAA rules book (which also applies to NAIA and other collegiate bodies – example Junior Colleges, etc.); however, the referee has the authority to stop the clock for any reason he/she deems necessary which is the broader interpretation of Rule 5.6.1: “Suspend the game whenever, by reason of the elements (see Lightning Guidelines, Appendix C), interference by spectators or other cause, such action is deemed necessary. A suspended game may be resumed should conditions allow.” In short., for the safety of players and all others (referees) concerned, Rule 18 – COMMON SENSE should deem it necessary to take water breaks should the temperatures be in the 100s! Heat prostration qualifies as “…other cause…”
What is NISOA’s position, or advice, concerning the wearing of prescription eyeglasses? I coach a junior college women’s team (NJCAA Region XIX) & have a player who wears prescription eyeglasses. In 2 previous matches, no issues were raised. In our most recent match, the center referee would not allow the eyeglasses, stating “I won’t be responsible if they break and go into her eye – she plays without them, or she doesn’t play.” She played without them, but not as effectively due to blurry vision at a distance.
I have read the NCAA rules for 2013 pertaining to player equipment & safety and understand all they say, but as usual, the rules are broad and appear to give the referee ultimate and arbitrary discretion.
Your friends at USSF had this to say: Back in 2001 USSF gave this advice to all referees: “Referees must not interpret [a statement from the IFAB — the people who make the rules of our game] to mean either that “sports glasses” must automatically be considered safe or that glasses which are not manufactured to be worn during sports are automatically to be considered unsafe. The referee must make the final decision: the Board has simply recognized that new technology has made safer the wearing of glasses during play.”
I am looking for an official NISO interpretation/policy statement or statement of advice to referees regarding eyeglasses if NISOA has one.
Thanks.
John: Regrettably, the matter of eyeglasses – sport or standard – is not addressed in Rule 4.5 leaving the decision to the referee. If he/she says the player can’t play with the eyewear in question then the player has only one of two choices: Play without them or not play.
Rule 4.5.1 A player shall not wear anything that is dangerous to any player.
A.R.4.5.1.a. A player is wearing articles considered dangerous. The coach insists that the player in previous games has been allowed to wear these articles and refuses to make the player take off the articles. RULING: The referee shall instruct the player to leave the field until he or she conforms to Rules 4.5 and 4.6.
A.R.4.5.1.b. If a player is instructed to leave the field for not conforming to Rule 4.5, may that player return at any time after rectifying the problem? RULING: If the player was not substituted for, that player may re-enter the game when the ball is not in play, after receiving approval from the referee. Exception: The player, if substituted for, may re-enter in the second period only providing he or she had not previously re-entered in that period. (Also see Goalkeeper provisions in Rule 3.5.2.)
..
Note: It is mandatory that the referee examine the equipment of each player before each game to see that it complies with the foregoing standards.
If the referee considers any article liable to cause injury to another player, including head, face or body protective equipment, the referee shall signal the clock to be stopped and instruct the player to leave the field of play and remove the illegal article.
PENALTY— Any player not conforming to Rules 4.1 through 4.5 shall not be permitted to play. Moreover, after being instructed to leave the field, providing he/she has not been substituted for, a player shall not re-enter the game without first reporting to the referee, who shall be satisfied that the player’s uniform, shoes and equipment are in order.
Cliff,
Who is allowed, by rule, to be in the technical area and on the bench in an NCAA men’s soccer game?
If a school administrator, say the Vice President of Student Affairs, who was not listed on the roster,
decided that he did not like the way a game was being called and decided to enter the field and yell instructions and questions at the Referee?
Are campus police generally allowed inside the fenced of sidelines, out of bounds area during the game?
On a side note; how long does an ejected player have to leave the sideline, out of bounds, area have?
David W. Eskridge
[email protected]
David: The only people allowed in the technical area are those listed on the official game roster. The exception is the police officer. Anytime a law officer is present he/she transcends the law. For example if a policeman is in an intersection and waves a vehicle thru – even ‘against’ a red light – drivers must comply. Conventional wisdom suggests that the referee note the presence of the policeman/woman (security officer) and, perhaps, make some contact but it is not required,. As far as the school official is concerned such behavior is out of bounds but, clearly, awkward because he/she has to leave the area. It is iffy but if I were the referee I would calmly approach the person(s) and cite the rule with reference to the official roster. Good luck on that one! As far as the ejected player is concerned, he/she should leave the field, gather his/her equipment and proceed to the point where he/she is out of sight and sound. A reasonable time to do so has not been determined but I suggest falls into the same category as delay of game. The referee is able to judge whether it is being done in an expeditious manner. Hope this helps.
Hi Cliff, is this rule correct,thanks David
>>
>> “One of the women’s soccer officials tried to manipulate the game
>> time to get the game started earlier than we wanted it to start which
>> would have had a negative impact on the teams by denying them proper
>> warm up. The official cited a halted game rule that said the game
>> must be restarted within 90 minutes or it could not be played. First
>> of all, it was not a halted game…it had never begun. He said that a
>> non-started game was the same as a halted game….I do not think that
>> is right. I do not know but I think this official had somewhere he
>> wanted to get to and did not want to be delayed.”
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> From my perspective as Commissioner regarding the soccer “halted game” …
>> According to Rule 10.11 in the NCAA soccer rule book, it deals with
>> suspending or restarting games due to lightning. Although it is
>> worded very poorly, here it is … “No contest may be started or
>> resumed that has not been restarted before an additional 90 minutes
>> after the conclusion of a regulation 90-minute game, unless mutually
>> agreed upon before the game or by conference policy. For
>>
>> example, a game begun at 2pm, if interrupted, shall be suspended for
>> that day if it cannot be resumed before 5 pm, unless mutually agreed
>> upon before the game or by conference policy. (See Rule 7.1)”
>>
David: The intent of the rule is to ensure that teams and officials – unless otherwise agreed before the start of the game – are not required to remain at the game site longer than the equivalent of one, additional 90 game. It does not permit an official to demand any game begin prior to the scheduled game time. He/she is correct with reference to there being no difference between when the game is scheduled to begin (example 2:00pm) and the actual starting time of the game meaning any suspended game must be restarted no later than 5:00pm – unless prior mutual consent before the 2:00pm start.
Cliff:
On Sunday, I was presented a roster by one of the schools and it listed two ( 2 ) head coaches. When I questioned it, both gentlemen were adamant about the fact that they were co-coaches……First of all, is this permissable ? Do we need a single head coach ?
Secondly, it seems that co-coaches only buys them extra cards if that situation should arise, therefore is it permissable to designate only one of them with the authority to address the referee, and limit the other coach to speaking to the players only ……
I await your response….
Frank: The NCAA Bylaws (39.1) authorizes co-coaching which makes legitimate the position the two coaches explained to you. Contrary to assistant coaches co-coaches are eligible to share wins en toto as well as losses and ties. As to the issue of ejection you should treat the situation the same as if the non-guilty party is the same as any other bench personnel. Example, if the head coach gets ejected the assistant coach continues and vice versa. Your point about designating one or the other is well taken and we will present the question to the rules committee at the committee meetings next February..
When you begin a match, you have to have a minimum of 5 balls to start. Is there a rule to when 3 of the balls are lost and there are only 2 remaining for the remained of the match? Is it permissible to use 3 other balls, which are not the same as the 2 you are currently using, to continue the match?
Scott: There is no rule addressing the problem you have cited in which case the referee should appeal to ‘Rule 18’ – “Common Sense”. Recommendation from the rules perspective is to choose one of two options: 1. Replace the remaining two with five, new, identical balls and/or 2. Continue the match with the remaining two balls..
Cliff,
I recently was involved in a DIII conference double header (women’s team played first and men’s team played second) between schools who were a great distance apart.
We had a lightning delay 5 minutes before half-time and we were about to invoke the “90 after 90 rule” in regards to continuing the game. The athletic director for the home school came and told us that their conference had a rule that superseded the NCAA rule and that, basically, the game must get to 70 minutes no matter how long it takes. So basically, we could have been there all night. We ended up getting confirmation from the Conference Commissioner that there was such a rule. Long story short, we ended up restarting the game before the 90 after 90 rule came into effect and we finished the game.
So basically, my questions are. Is that allowed? Can a conference override/ignore certain NCAA rules? Also, if conferences can pick and choose what rules to follow/ignore in regards to the administrative side of the game, then why even have a universal rule book?
Then the next day I was involved with teams from the same conference and poor weather was predicted for the day and we asked the teams if they would like to move the game up and hour or two earlier to avoid the upcoming inclement weather, but coaches/ADs told us that we couldn’t because of a conference/NCAA rule that you can’t play games less than 24 hours apart…Go figure… Needless to say we could not get the games in.
Daniel: The rules (see page 8) do allow for administrative (schools, ADs, Commissioners, et al) decisions that pertain to game management (times/sites of games) but cannot alter the rules of conduct. The athletic director’s statement about 70 minutes is NOT an NCAA rule with reference to mandatory time a game shall be played but a statement that follows what transpires if the referee suspends a game – for whatever cause. If the game is not resumed the same day it can be considered a “completed game” (determined by the GSA – example AD, Commissioner) IF the suspended game reached 70 minutes. If it did NOT then it is considered NO CONTEST.As for the second issue, there is NO SUCH 24 hours apart NCAA rule. It may be a conference rule. (See helpful references from the 2012-13 rules below.) Let me know if you need further assistance.
Governing Sports Authority Language
References to game authority or governing sports authority throughout the book generally refer to athletics directors of the participating institutions, conference commissioners or any other office that has jurisdiction over the game in question. Governing sports authorities may not alter the rules of conduct as stated in this book (for example, rescinding violations and misconduct rules before, during and after a contest and altering overtime procedures to accommodate a conference’s postseason tournament). For NCAA championships, the NCAA games committee is the game authority.
The NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules have been designated as either administrative or conduct rules. Typically, administrative rules are those dealing with preparation for competition. They may be altered by prior written mutual consent of the competing institutions. Conduct rules are those that pertain directly to the competition. These rules may not be changed by mutual consent. All NCAA member institutions are required to conduct their intercollegiate contests according to these rules. In the 2012 and 2013 Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules, the administrative rules are Rules 1.1.2, 1.12.2, 1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.18,
4.1.3, 4.2.4, 4.2.5, 5.4.5, 6.2, 6.5, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5 and 10.6. All other rules are conduct rules.
Cliff,
Two points of clarification. (1) According to the rules cited below, if a player is injured and is substituted for, and a card given, the injured player is not required to replace the player who came in for him. For any other reason, the injured player must replace the individual who came in for him.
(2) In 3.5.3.2 below, who are the words “that player” referring to?
3.5.3.1 Players whose injury was caused by an opposing player who was
cautioned or ejected in conjunction with the injury may be substituted
for and re-enter the game in any period….Neither the injured player nor the substitute shall
be charged with a substitution.
3.5.3.2 Players with a bleeding injury, blood on the uniform or signs of a
concussion shall be substituted for and may re-enter the game (after
being beckoned by the referee)…..Neither the injured player
nor the substitute shall be charged with a substitution. However, if the
injured player replaces a player other than the original substitute, “that player”
shall be charged with a substitution.
Thanks.
Sorry, for the delay, Ed…traveling and just getting to this. It appears that you are asking about the same player ion both instances. In short, if the returning player replaces the player that came in for him/her then there is no issue. If the returning player replaces a different player, the different player is “that player” that is charged with a substitution. In other words, if #4 enters for injured player #7 and later #7 reenters for #47 then #47 cannot reenter in the first and OT periods whereas had #7 reentered for #4 he/she would still be eligible to enter the game as if he/she had never entered previously. Hope this helps.
May the referee signal to stop the clock for a reason not specified in the rules?
Rule 6.3.5 lists specific events for which the timekeeper stops the clock when indicated by the referee. Unlike NFHS Rule 7-2-4-1, there is no general reference for the clock to be stopped whenever the referee indicates.
It appears that many referees believe they may stop the clock to warn a player or to redress an obvious time wasting tactic. As written, the rule would appear to require that a player is carded for the clock to be stopped?
As you know, other rules expressly provide for the referee to stop the clock, but with exception for dealing with spectators (5.6.9 (noisemakers; spectators (AR 5.6.1.b)); these are are for matters listed in Rule 6.3.5. (See 5.6.7 (injury), 5.6.8 (jewelry), 3.6.2 (sub in the final 5 minutes of the second period) illegal equipment (4.5.5); jewelry (4.6); injury (AR 9.3.2.a); red card (12.3) and yellow card (12.5)..
It makes sense to grant the referee discretion to stop the clock when appropriate for “other reasons.” But, is this permitted under the rules?
Dennis: Excellent question. You have covered most of the items addressing the issue. The committee has not provided a ‘shopping list’ for every possibility but does provide a guideline for those items. The primary option for those items is the phrase “other causes” that is set forth under “discretionary power”..
The referee has discretionary power to:
5.6.1 Suspend the game whenever, by reason of the elements (see Lightning Guidelines, Appendix C), interference by spectators or other cause, such action is deemed necessary. A suspended game may be resumed should conditions allow. If the suspended game is not resumed the same day, the referee shall file a report with the appropriate governing sports authority for later administrative action. (See Rule 10.10.)
A.R.5.6.1.a. If a game is suspended by the referee because of the elements, interference by spectators, grave disorders or other causes, shall a forfeit be declared?
In the past the SRE has approved such stoppages fuse or things like water breaks for excessive heat. In short, any cause the referee deems necessary (reasonable) is one the committee will support.
HI Cliff,
We face a player with an incredibly long throw in our conference. How far away from the touchline does my player have to stand to try to block the throw? Can he jump as well? Different referees are giving me conflicting rules. Appreciate your help.
Jerry: The committee has discussed this in the past and issued a general ruling – A.R. 15.2.b. – May an opponent stand in front of the thrower? RULING: Yes, provided the player does not move in an attempt to interfere with the throw-in. Caution the player who does attempt to interfere with the throw-in for unsporting behavior.
The ruling does not specify any distance therefore it is the referee’s judgment/prerogative to decide whether adequate distance is provided as well as not allowing unsporting behavior (example, jumping up and down prior to or during the throw) to occur. If you have a specific proposal that you feel might be worthy of the committee’s consideration please send it along to either Ken or myself and he will ensure it gets careful treatment during the line-by-line review the committee always gives. If penalized, the ruling will be unsporting behavior (12.4.8 and 12.5.5.a) Hope this helps.
The markings for the soccer field are superimposed on the markings for a football field. A player from the visiting team mistakenly attempts a throw-in from a line marking the football team area which is just inside the soccer touch line. The officials immediately whistle and have the player take the throw in from the proper place. Is this decision subject to protest by the opposing coach, who believes that a “foul throw-in” should have been declared and posession awarded to his team?
Chuck: The applicable rule here is ‘Rule 18’ – common sense and the option for the referee to change his/her mind before restart of play. Corrects a problem detectable by all. Is a judgment by referee that would not qualify for protest or misapplication of rule since none has been broken.
Regarding the just published “Instructions for Timekeepers” written by Mr. Dennison. Firstly I like it, and agree with it.
BUT< Item five that starts any other time doesn't seem to be adequately covered in the rule book whch has caused problems.
It is common for referees to want to "have a chat" with a player that has commited a foul that is not quite deserving a card, but a point needs to be made.. Per the rule book as I understand it, the referee cannot stop the clock for this"butt chewing moment" and yet the instruction for time keepers item 5 referncing any unusual situation would cover this.
In assesing matches, I have seen coaches twice this year cite the clock could not be stopped if a card wasn't being shown, and as far as I can see, prior to this memo, I agfreed. What am I missing?
Ron: One of the Rule 18 – common sense – items is the one this issue encompasses. As NCAA SRE – for almost 40 years – I always supported the referee when he/she chose to do something that made good sense even if it wasn’t specifically addressed in the rules. The supporting language from the rules derives from Rule 5.6.1
Discretionary Power
The referee has discretionary power to:
5.6.1 Suspend the game whenever, by reason of the elements (see Lightning Guidelines, Appendix C), interference by spectators or OTHER CAUSE…..such action is deemed necessary.
A.R.5.6.1.a. If a game is suspended by the referee because of the elements, interference by spectators, grave disorders or OTHER CAUSES…
Comment: There are two or three things at loose here: 1.The referee is THE SOLE JUDGE. 2.The rules were written with a view to avoiding shopping lists (in order to avoid missing even one) and, at the same to allow the referee to make sensible judgments. To that end we stressed that “other cause(s”) set forth in both 5.6.1 and A.R.5.6.2.b gave plenty of room for the “judge” to mitigate situations that are not specifically spelled out in the rule. Example: If the temperature is 116 degrees and the TV timeout is too far away…CALL TIMEOUT AND DRINK! If talking to a player borders on delay of game or timewasting (in the eyes of either coach) CALL TIMEOUT!
With all due respect, 5.6.1 deals with suspending a match, and the” other cause ” seems buried.
I beleive the wording should still be changed in the rule book in terms of time keepers duties per 6.3.5 and precisely when the referee can/should stop the clock. Just my opinion but at any rate, you have given me an “out” via your answer which is what I was seeking………. Thanks
Thanks, Ron. Your wishes (proposed changes) will be part of the agenda when the committee meets next January. Ken Andres, SRE, is on the front line making proposals but both NISOA President, Todd Abraham (non-voting active referee on the committee), and your ED (yours truly), will have input. I always coordinate proposals I receive with Ken to ensure full representation. Stay tuned.
Can a team use a goalkeeper that had NOT entered the game but is on the game day roster and use her as the goalkeeper during a penalty-kick shootout? Does the keeper need to enter the game at some point? Does the keeper need to be on the field prior to the end of the game? Can a team use any player on the game roster to participate in the shootout?
Thanks
Chris
Chris: Answers to your questions in order you have given:
1. GK that had NOt entered: YES (see rule below)
2. Enter at some point: YES when the coach submits the participants (10 kickers and a GK) for the shootout.
3. GK on the field. NO…can enter before shootout begins but must be selected before shootout begins.
4, Use any player? YES as long as that player is listed on the roster….even if he/she did not play in the game.
7.1.2.1 Only players who are listed on the official NCAA game roster form shall be eligible to participate in the tiebreaker. Each team shall designate either: (a) 10 different kickers, one of whom may be the goalkeeper; or
(b) 10 different kickers and a goalkeeper who will not participate as a designated kicker in the tiebreaker procedure. The kicking order shall be at the discretion of the kicking team; however, once taken, the order of the designated kickers shall remain the same. If any of the designated players, except for the goalkeeper, are ejected during the tiebreaker, the game will continue with the remaining designated players; and the opposing team, if desired, shall have the option to reduce or adjust its kicking order to avoid being penalized or placed at a disadvantage if the No. 1 kicker from the offending team ends up kicking against the No.10 kicker from the non-offending team. In addition, if the designated player ejected is the goalkeeper, his or her replacement may be from any of the eligible players listed on the official NCAA game roster for that game; however, the game will continue with the remaining designated players and the opposing team shall remove one of the designated kickers from its kicking order.
A.R.7.1.2.1. Are coaches permitted in the center circle during the taking of kicks from the penalty line or mark? RULING: No. Coaches, nonparticipating players and all other bench personnel shall remain beyond the touch line in the coaching and player area.
7.1.2.2 The visiting team shall call the coin toss, the winner of which elects to kick first or last. Each team shall take an initial series of five kicks, if necessary, alternately. In all games except the national championship
game, the team scoring the greater number of goals shall advance to the next round. The referee shall determine which goal shall be used.
7.1.2.3 If the score still is tied after each team has taken five kicks, kicks shall continue alternately in the same order until a team has one more goal in the same number of kicks.
7.1.2.4 Each kick shall be taken by a different player until 10 kicks have been taken by each team. If the number of kicks goes beyond 10, the initial order of kicking shall be repeated.
7.1.2.5 The nonparticipating goalkeeper shall stay on the field of play at one corner of the penalty area. All designated players except the kicker and the designated goalkeepers shall remain in the center circle.
7.1.2.6 One official shall record the kicking order, and one shall administer the taking of the kicks.
7.1.2.7 Once the goalkeeper is designated, he or she shall not be replaced unless injured or ejected; and his or her replacement may be from any of the eligible players listed on the official NCAA game roster for that game. Injuries leading to replacement of the designated goalkeeper shall
be determined by the attending physician and/or a certified trainer in concert with the governing sports authority. (See page 6.) However, the injured goalkeeper is eligible to return if physically able.
Hello, in a recent match 4 substitutes charged onto the field of play during a confrontation between players on the field. After our crew isolated them I issued the red card to each of them. My question is, should I have issued a caution first and then the red card?
A.R. 12.5.1. A player enters or returns to the field of play without receiving approval
from the referee and, apart from this, commits another more serious infringement.
RULING: The player shall be cautioned for entering or returning to the field without
approval and ejected for the more serious infringement.
Best,
Jeff
Jeff: Your action was correct. Such action requires immediate ejection. See Rule below.
12.6.1.1 A player, coach or bench personnel shall be ejected if he or she is guilty of fighting or leaves the coaching area to participate in an altercation.
You get an A+
Query on yellow card system for this years NCAA Division II tournament. If you accumulate 4 yellow cards in regular season play and then receive your 5th in the NCAA second tournament (last 32 game) does it result in a suspension. I am not sure if the two yellow card rule in the play off takes over the previous 4 yellow cards in regular season. Some information would be amazing
Andrew: The rule is clear…if a player finishes the regular season with four cards he/she enters the postseason (includes conference and NCAA tournaments) with the five-card total increased to eight (8) before suspension. To that end, the player in question does not have to sit and will not sit until four additional cards are obtained. Please note that your comment about “two” yellows needs clarification: A player cannot receive two yellows in the same game because the second card to the same player SHALL BE RED. (See Rule below.) In this latter case, the player must sit out regardless whether it is the last regular season game or any game in the postseason.
A.R.12.11.1.d. A player receives a caution and a second card in the same game. RULING: The player shall be charged with one card (yellow) with reference to the five-, three- or two-caution accumulation system and one card (red) with reference to the two-ejection accumulation system.
Added note: Not sure what your (last 32 game) reference means?
A.R.12.11.1.e. A player receives two “yellow” cards in the same game. For accumulation purposes, how many “yellow” cards does she or he have? RULING: One. It is impossible to accumulate more than one “yellow” card per game since the second card issued to the same person in the same game shall be red.
Where can I find a current qualifying examination for prospective NISOA candidates?
We run a New Candidate school each March and I would like to test them on current NISOA rules.
Joe: Contact Tom Richardson – [email protected] Tom is Assoc. ED, Director of Membership and administrative assistant for the NRP.
Joe: Correction to my initial reply – (I usually forward all such adm. questions to Tom – this one should have gone to NISOA President and Dir. of Instruction – Todd Abraham – he can be reached at [email protected] or 847-943-4461
When can the referee stop the clock? At his/her discretion? Only at the times listed in the rulebook?
At the NRP clinics last year we were shown a clip of a referee stopping the clock without issuing a caution and we were told this was illegal. I have since heard otherwise and just really want to know if I can stop the clock at my discretion or not. And where this is backed up in the rule book. Thanks.
TT: There are ‘legal’ specified times and circumstances set forth in the rules book when the referee shall stop the clock – examples after a goal is scored; when a caution is issued (exceptions possible during final five minutes of regulation time; injury timeouts; TV timeout after the 23rd minute, etc. However, it also is legal for the referee to signal timeout should in his/her judgment a situation warrants it – examples – to go to the coach, to speak with the timekeeper, when the temperature is 116 and a water break is imperative – things of this nature are not listed as official timeouts but as sole judge the wise referee uses such “executive privilege”
Thanks for the reply, I’m glad to hear that we can use our discretion when necessary. Any chance that could be put in the rule book? I still can’t find a place in the rule book to back that up.
TT:- There will be a specific reference set forth in the new rules book and most likely will be under Rule 5.6.1 appearing as an Approved Ruling – Best guess: A.R. 5.6.1.e. Ken Andres, SRE, suggests the new books will be available earlier than the usual late July delivery but will definitely be available online (NCAA.org and nisoa.com) much sooner. Hope this helps.
is calling for a ball such as “mine” an automatic yellow card?
Bob: There is no rule specifically addressing the matter of calling “mine” other than the historical perception that if a player is going to call for the ball he/she must include their name – example, Bob’s ball!” The traditional response has been a “caution” Rule 12.4.8 indirectly alludes to such a possibility prohibiting that “…unsporting behavior…including inappropriate language…” leads to a caution but that’s a stretch of the rule. Rule 12.10.3 is a better reference inasmuch as its language includes “…if the player uses trickery – in any form…he/she (sic) is guilty of unsporting behavior and shall be cautioned.” In the end, it comes down to referee discretion. Hope this helps.
You administer a drop ball restart. The ball touches the ground then Player B12 gets the ball and dribbles it away
from the spot of the drop ball. You should:
Bruce: Legal play. The only reference to the issue you raise is paragraph 2 p. 38. Rule 9.3.2.The ball is in play when it touches the ground; therefore, B12 has the right to dribble it away. If either player touches it BEFORE it hits the ground the ball is dropped again.
Cliff my name is Bob Brouse and I am the NISOA representative from the Central Illinois Soccer Officials Association (CISOA). I am trying to determine if we have the most recent NISOA entrance examination. I can not find this information on the website. When I try to use the link to contact the Director of Instruction it sends me to outlook to set up an e-mail account but can’t do it. I wish you would just list each persons e-mail address which would make it much easier to contact. Can you tell me what the most current test is. The one we are using is QualExam_4_13a. Thanks for your help
Bob Brouse
Bob: I apologize for the brief delay in responding to your question; however, NISOA embraces an organizational formula that encourages (requires?) that answers come from the primary person(s) assigned to a given area. President Todd Abraham is also the Director of Instruction under whose area your question falls. He is conducting the Chicago area NRP Academy Program this weekend and has asked me to forward his answer to you:
“We never post qualification exams in order to maintain the exam integrity. Chapters should contact the Director of Instruction directly for a copy of the qualification exam @: [email protected]. (Note: He also will see this post so when you email him he will respond to you promptly after the weekend clinic is concluded.
My best,
Cliff
we never post qualification exams in order to maintain the exam integrity. Chapters should contact the Director of Instruction directly for a copy of the qualification exam @ [email protected]
A question about throw ins. The rule states that if the ball fails to enter the field then the opposing team gets the throw in. But the approved ruling says retake the throw in. Which is the correct restart?
The following was cut from the NCAA central hub.
_________________________________________________________
ART. 15-2
The thrower, at the moment of delivering the ball, shall face the field of play and part of each foot shall be either on the touch line or the ground outside the touch line. The thrower shall use both hands equally and shall deliver the ball from behind and over his or her head. The throw-in shall be taken from the point where it crossed the touch line, being thrown in any direction by a player of the team opposite to that of the player who last touched the ball. The ball shall be in play from the throw as soon as it enters the field of play. if, on the throw-in, the ball fails to enter the field of play before it touches the ground, the ball is awarded to the opponent at the spot of the initial throw-in. A goal may not be scored directly from a throw-in.
The thrower shall not play the ball a second time before it has been touched by another player.
Note: The player taking the throw-in may not use stickum or adhesive material of any kind (including gloves with an adhesive surface) to enhance the grip on a throw-in.
PENALTY – If the ball is improperly thrown in, the throw-in shall be taken by a player of the opposing team.
Approved Ruling 15.2
_____________________________________________________
A.R. 15.2.a
A player taking a throw-in throws the ball so that it does not enter the field of play but passes outside the touch line or hits the ground before entering the field of play.
RULING: The throw-in shall be retaken.
Doug: The rule set forth in 15.2 and AR 15.2.a. both state – emphatically – that, “if the ball fails to enter the field of play before it touches the ground, the ball is awarded to the opponent” We cannot vouch for the central hub – which we will alert to the discrepancy. Hope this helps.
If i do the cut off socks but the tape i use matches the color of the team sock say for example the team sock color is green and i first put on white regular socks and over them i put the green team socks and tape the bottom with green tape with only a little white at the ankle form the cutoff sock is this ok
Michael: I have delayed answering to give Ken the first “shot” at this but, inasmuch as we tag-team this service I am happy to provide the following:
First, the Rules Book does not address anything pertaining to “stockings” other than that in Rule 4.1.1 which states that “stockings” are part of the required uniform. In Rule 4.1.2 “stockings” are mentioned in reference to shin guards the stockings shall cover. The only other references to “stockings” are in Rules 4.2.1; 4.2.2 and 4.2.3.There is no stipulation concerning what a player might do to alter the appearance of stockings with tape or any other design as long as the end product conforms to the rule pertaining to “contrast”. The summary judgment seems to allow creative design as long as the basic rule is not altered.
Is there a formal NISOA standard or procedure for water breaks?
Tom: Through the years – even without any formal rule – the referee ALWAYs has had jurisdictional options to call time outs – example fights, spectator interference “or other causes” – howeve, In the current (2014-15) Rules the committee has taken the issue one step further – Rule 5.6.A.R.5.6.1.e – allows the referee to stop the clock due to extreme heat and humidity which, by inference, suggests he/she can do so for any legitimate reason.
Guys, here is a question from one of the college admins that wants to hire a company that will film their practice to start with and with intent of doing real games in the future using remote controlled drones:
” I have a question to ask you about Soccer rules. This question may sound crazy, but it is true.
Our Men’s Soccer team has purchased a drone. It is a small remote control flying machine about 12″ by 12″ and has 4 small propellers. The propellers are each about 3-4 inches long. They plan to fly it over the field during practice to take video tape of practice. The overhead angle and quality of the video really is quite remarkable. From the side of the field, one of the coaches or a manager will operate the remote control unit and keep the drone over the field while it is video taping. I would imagine most of the time the drone is over the field it will be hovering.
They would like to use the drone to video tape their games. Do you know of any rules and/or guidelines they need to follow for the use of drones during games? If none exist, can you think of any guidelines I can tell our coaches? minimum height above the field etc.
Have you ever heard of any other NCAA school using a drone to film with? ”
Please advise so I can get back to this admin ASAP with some advise on this new technology which is coming sooner than I expected.
SCSOA Rep — Stan Kupinski
Stan,
This issue has been raised to the NCAA and will be addressed by the NCAA Secretary / Rules editor. When the ruling is issued, NISOA will post it on its web site.
Todd Abraham
NISOA Rules Interpreter
From the NCAA Soccer Central Hub: “The NCAA Soccer Rules Committee has ruled that drones may not be used to monitor or record intercollegiate soccer games, as they are not considered to be the type of “electronic device” contemplated by Rule 12.14.2, which permits enhanced communication between members of the on-site coaching staff.”
Is NISOA adhering to the new USSF/FIFA 2013-14 interpretations of the offside law? The Comparative Study of Rules and Laws indicates there are no differences but others I have talked with do not believe NISOA has addressed these new interpretations.
Fred,
Thanks for your question. NISOA is aligned with the USSF/FIFA 2013-14 interpretations of offside. The comparative study correctly indicates no differences in application or interpretation.
Todd Abraham
NISOA Rules Interpreter
Thanks Todd for your response. My general impression from discussing this matter with NISOA referees is there remains some debate over whether or not the NCAA offside interpretations are consistent witht the USSF/FIFA interpretations. Possible this could be addressed in a brief memo to NISOA referees. Have the NCAA coaches been informed that this is how offside will be interpreted in their games from now on?
Fred, I appreciate your perspective, however, I do NOT believe we need to make a public statement. All ofour instruction and documents indicate there is no difference – nothing further should be needed. I happy to discuss further, if you’d like. If so, please contact me directly.
Todd Abraham
[email protected]
From the NCAA Soccer Central Hub: “Although there are differences in verbiage, these [NCAA Soccer Rules] definitions are consistent with FIFA Circular No. 1362 issued June 2013.”
confused…When i stop the clock for an injured player (so i may assess the injury), does that player need to come off the field or may they stay if no trainer was needed?
I know that if the trainer is beckened the player goes off.
Thanks
Bob J: The injured player does NOT have to leave the field unless the trainer is beckoned. No trainer no departure. See Rule 5.6.7.1. Exceptions: Bleeding injuries or signs of concussion. (See Rule 5.6.7.2)
To take this situation one step further, what if the trainer enters the field without being beckoned? I know this is not supposed to happen but many games do not have an Alternate Official and a trainer or Staff person my enter the field when the clock is stopped. Is this a defacto signal that the player must now leave the field? It would seem that the action by the “bench” would indicate treatment deemed necessary. If the player does NOT leave the field it could cause problems with the other coach.
Wayne: Soccer is one of the few sports where the trainer is not supposed to enter the field of play until beckoned by the referee; however, with player safety enjoying a much higher priority as a result of the rise in litigious actions – and increased liability for those managing the game – I suggest the referee use discretion and err on the side of caution if the trainer enters without approval. He/she can always provide rationale to an opposing coach explaining that the player might not have to leave because the trainer “broke the rule”. A side note: The Rules Committee will be producing the next two-year book (2016-17) next January which I am sure will include serious study of Rule 5.6.7.2
This is a first in my experience. While assessing a college match, I noticed that one of the substitutes on the bench was smoking a cigar. After the match, I suggested to the AR that he occasionally glance at the bench behind him. In any event Rule 12.1.2 states that the player should be “disqualified” as opposed to the term “ejected” used elsewhere in the Rules. It is not listed as a 12.3 Ejection reason. My question is, if the AR noticed this infraction and called it to the attention of the referee, should the referee issue a red card or merely verbally instruct the player to leave, and secondly, should an ejection report be filed?
Don: This rule is system-wide applicable to all sports. When the NCAA executive committee handed down the ruling the word disqualification – used in other sports – was all inclusive presupposing removal from competition. In soccer’s case that means a red card and removal of the player(s) from the site of competition (Rule 5.6.4). With reference to further action re the student athlete(s), the referee should follow the procedures set forth in Rule 12.3; what happens next is up to the institution.
A shot taken on goal is blocked and controlled by a defending player inside his own team’s penalty area. The defending player then starts to dribble the ball, having full control of it. Before the defender dribbles the ball out of the penalty area, he stops and the goalkeeper comes over and picks up the ball from his teammate.
I’ve read A.R. 12.10.3.a in NCAA rulebook.
Is this OK?
Mike: This is a fuzzy one inasmuch as none of the three ‘conditions’ set forth in Rule 12.10.3 occurred. For example, based on your description, trickery does not seem to be involved and it is obvious the field player and goalkeeper did not violate A.R.12.10.3.a.and b. However, the field player did STOP – inadvertently or on purpose – which allowed the goalkeeper to pick up the ball. What your description does not include is whether there was a challenge by the opposing team which led to the field player’s decision to stop. In the end, it is a judgment call for which the referee probably would not be held culpable whether he allowed play to continue or applied the penalty either to the field player (12.10.3) or goalkeeper (A.R.12.10.3.a.) If the referee judged a penalty should be assessed my sentiment would be to apply the penalty in A.R.12.10.3.b…i.e. indirect kick to the opposing team. Note: I will forward to Ken Andres a recommendation that the Rules committee clean this one up for the 2016-17 rules changes.
I am looking for any information regarding an understanding or ruling on a player with a cast on their arm and if they would be allowed to play soccer, would it matter which arm or how large the cast is? Say a full length cast from above the elbow versus a half cast just above the wrist. would they be allowed to play if the cast was covered with a soft cover? I know this is a college rules forum, however my question is concerning Florida High School Soccer rules. I have been unable to find any guidance to cover this question.
Thanks for you reply
Don: Players wearing casts or playing with prostheses is permissible set forth in Rules 4.5.3 and 4.5.5 of the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules. The critical issue – to be determined by the referee BEFORE each game – is whether the padding is adequate to ensure injury to that player or others will not occur. For specific ruling re High School play please contact Mark Koski at [email protected] or 317-822-5716
Mr. McCrath,
I have question about time management and the duration of a match. Why doesn’t NCAA soccer matches last 90 minute(2 – 45 min halves) as dictated by FIFA, it seems to me that in the past games I have attended both as a former player and as a bystander the official time is kept on a clock rather than allowing the referee to decide on the lost time during each period, especially allowing the NCAA to allow a 10 second countdown, as we both know this rule needs to be adjusted.
FIFA or FA rules regarding duration of a match:
An allowance is made in either period for the time lost through the following and there’s plenty of these infractions:
• Substitutions
• The assessment of players’ injuries
• The removal of the injured player from the field of play for treatment
• Time-wasting
• When the play is stopped for different reasons/any other cause
Additional time should be dictated from the field and not by a clock which is not the case at the collegiate level.
Looking forward to hearing your answer and as always thanks Nubs
iPhone battery on deep red – I will respond when I get to my computer
Michael: The NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules Committee, reconstituted from the previous, longstanding subcommittee of the Men’s Championship Committee, reconfirmed rules that were created – largely – to help promote the college game. In addition, media sources continued to press for timekeeping that would help them program more closely the end of game issues. Stopping the clock at predetermined junctures augmented time management while eliminating the guesswork many times associated with the referee acting as timekeeper.
In the 11/7/2014 NCAA Postseason Rules Refresher, question 6 appears to be lifted from the “2013 Rules Examination – Top 10 missed questions,” question 2. Yet the answers directly contradict each other. I believe that the defining difference would be if time is kept on the field by the Referee, opposed to a time keeper and time keeping device. This situation arose recently in our pool where the Timing device failed to sound and the ball entered the net before the center blew his whistle. For his sanity and mine, can you please clarify these two differing answers.
Kylan: Todd Abraham, NISOA’s President, is also Director of Instruction and curator of the Refresher Test. He is the one to answer your questions.
Kylan,
This was a Rules change for the 2014 season which is why we included it on the post season refresher test. Prior to the 2014 change, the period ended when the referee blew his / her whistle if the horn malfunctioned. THe 2014 rule change now ends the period when the clock indicates.
Todd Abraham
Can a MACC Championship final be officiated by officials from the same state as one of the teams is from, when two teams are from different states, or should it be someone impartial? Please advise
Kathy: Your questions have merit; however, oversight for postseason assignments are made in concert with conference commissioners, assignors and/or association (example NCAA, NAIA, et al) championship committees. They are the ones to respond to your questions. Hope this helps.
I ref High School Soccer and am So Confused On White home Uniform and White Socks. Reading Comparison That was Prepared by NISOA, it Doesn’t Define That as NFHS Rules Do? Example, My Understanding Was Socks Must be All White with a Logo ok, However Several of us went and Watched Games to view Ref’s Style Handling and learn in 2 adjoining States to mine( Tennessee) and the Home Team in All 6 Games I watched ( 3) each Had 2 Stripes of another Color at The Top of The Sock. Tn Association said No Stripe was Interpretation of NFHS Rule , The Refs in The Two other States ALL said , Stripes ok at Top of White Socks??
Second Issue was All White Jerseys . 99% of All White Jerseys Have White a Shade Darker or lighter For Emphasis. It Is Still all White and Allowed in Other Two States Tennessee Assoc says All White is All White in one White Color? In Other Two States , Two Teams Had All White Jerseys But One Was Small Squares All Over The Jersey So Every other had a Sheen and Every other flat White. The Other All White Jersey Had White Sublimation Of Mascot in Chest , It Was AllWhite and You Had To Look close But Mascot was Sublimated in White So That You Had To be Real Close or Light Just Right to See. All The White Jerseys I saw in 6 games Had Some Type Of emphasis in Them in White but a Shade Darker or lighter. All Refs Said Every Jersey were Good as They were All White and Sublimation or Emphasis Ok as They Were All White? I am Confused as Tenn Assoc Says Different on Jerseys and Socks. Also , Team that Had Mascot in Sublimation on White says He has it in His Away Red Jersey too, It’s Red, In Material , Not Applied , in original Material So it is Not a Patch or a Emblem but Built in material? Reading Your Comparison With NFHS , NCAA, and FIFA , I’d Agree. But, Reading NFHS and what State assoc Says NFHS is Completely Different to me in Your Rule Comparison , Other States, Tennessee Assoc. Boys Soccer here Starts Soon , What am I To Allow? How Can thereBe So Many Opinions of Rules. I know this is a Book , But our Whole local Ref association is Interested In Each Question Above. Can You PLEASE ADDRESS EACH ONE, It would Greatly Help us ALL!!! Fred Brown
First let me state that the state association usually responds to rule questions. Thereafter the final authority is Mark Koski at [email protected]. I can only give you my unofficial take on your questions.
Rule 4, Sec. 1, Art. 1 is very clear. The home team shall wear solid white jerseys and socks. Note the word SOLID. Multi-tone white shirts would not be allowed, nor would any striping on the socks be permitted. A manufacturer’s logo is permitted on the outside of each uniform item within certain specified size limitations. It is possible for a state to request an exemption for reason to the NFHS rfegarding uniforms, but approval is rare. I can find nothing regarding an exemption in Tennessee. They would appear to be in violation. I certainly suggest that youi go through your state association for a rulling and possibly copy Mark Koski who is ther NFHS Rules editor.
Please let me know if there is a MAX Roster size for Varsity Girls soccer in Delaware. If so, what is the number?
Ed: There are no roster limits established for teams by states such as Delaware. There are roster limits for postseason play established by the NCAA and other governing bodies which can be found in championship manuals. In addition, each school (and some conferences) individually, has the option to establish roster limits within each sport they sponsor which means you will have to check each program on your own. At the same time, such matters should not be of concern to the referee with reference to games in the regular season; they’re the responsibility of the Governing Sports Authority (GSA).
Is the following altercation between field players (a player pushes his opponent with the use of excessive force) – considered an act of Violent Behavior or Fighting?
Mike: Your description of the player’s behavior (pushes his opponent with excessive force) requires finite discernment on the part of the referee. If taken literally, a “push” DOES NOT conform to the behaviors set forth under Rule 12.16.1 – example, “…deliberate strike or punch…kicking, head-butting, hair pulling, open-handed strike…” but does qualify as serious foul play/violent behavior described in Rules 12.3.1 and 12.3.2. In any event, it may be purely academic inasmuch as all these behaviors fall under “ejections”. Hope this helps.
During the taking of a penalty kick, a member of the attacking team encroaches and the ball is deflected by the goalkeeper over the cross bar and over the goal line.
The correct restart is Indirect free kick by the defending team.
Haw ever In the COMPARATIVE STUDY OF RULES AND LAWS it indicate that Indirect free kick to defenders at point of infraction unless ball goes out of play over goal line, then goal kick, even if touched over goal line by the GK.
Please clarify the correct restart.
Sam: It should be noted that the only source for interpretations is the NCAA Soccer 2014 and 2015 Rules and Interpretations. The COMPARATIVE STUDY OF RULES AND LAWS is a service provided by NISOA and, on occasion, is incorrect. The correct restart is IFK (See Rule 14.3.1.A.R.14.3.2) Also, please note the message has been sent to the editor of the Comparative Study and will be corrected.
Ok. Thank you for the clarification. Could you take a look at these scenarios (they are related to my previous question):
Scenario #1: While dribbling the ball a player is physically challenged (legal contact) by his opponent. Unfortunately, the dribbler is unable to withstand the contact and STRIKES his opponent with an elbow in the face area. Does this constitute Violent Behavior or Fighting?
Scenario #2: While dribbling the ball a player is physically challenged (illegal contact) by his opponent and a foul is called. Immediately after the whistle the dribbler (still frustrated by the foul) STRIKES his opponent with an elbow in the face area. Does this constitute Violent Behavior or Fighting?
Mike: Scenario #1, taken literally (by your description i.e. “STRIKES”) is a de facto definition of “fighting” albeit different from a more typical “fighting” scenario where one or more players are “squared off” against each other. To that extent, referee discretion will/should determine the nature of the violation. That notwithstanding, either/both behaviors fall under “ejections” the only remaining issue the referee’s report to the scorekeeper that will determine the suspension.
Scenario #2: Fighting. (See Rule 12.6.1.)
As per definition “A fight is defined as a deliberate strike or punch or an attempt to strike or punch another player, official, coach or bench personnel”.
What about a player, coach, or a bench personnel deliberately striking or punching or an attempting to strike or punch an outside agent (for example, a spectator, photographer or press representative, etc). Should a situation like this be reported as fighting (regardless of an outside agent not being included in the fighting definition)?
Stanislaw: Taking your scenario verbatim the Rule of Law is set forth in Rule 12.3.2.1 and is, therefore, a de facto description of Violent Behavior. Ambiguity is always an element when a specific term – lifted from another ruling – is included in the example given. By including the phrase “deliberately striking or punching” mitigating a clear answer is aggravated by the necessary inclusion of Rule 12.6.1. The good news is that the violation of either or both rules warrants election. Obviously, if the referee reports it as “fighting” and it is the player’s second “fighting” offense he/she cannot compete for the remainder of the season.
Do I understand this correctly: Fighting (Rule 12.6.1) can occur against ANOTHER player, official, coach, or bench personnel – Does the word ANOTHER mean ANY player, ANY coach, or ANY bench personnel (including my own teammates, my own coaches, my own bench personnel) OR does it rather refer to the opponents ONLY (that is, the opposing player, the opposing coach, the opposing bench personnel)?
Mike: The answer is: YES! ANYONE! The key word is “ANOTHER”. For more precise clarification see Rule 12.3.2.1 pertaining to Violent Behavior. The Rules committee will receive our recommendation to add an A.R. under Fighting to further augment the ruling in the 2016-2017 Rules and Interpretations. .
It is really difficult to separate those two terminologies (Fighting & Violent Behavior) when considering a player deliberately punching/striking a teammate or someone from the outside (ball person, spectator, etc). In my eyes, Fighting is a very specific representation of Violent Behavior. MY QUESTION: How can a deliberate punch/strike between players from the opposing teams be categorized as Fighting (as per Rule 12.6.1), whereas, in an exactly same scenario (a deliberate punch/strike) but this time between teammates or between a player and an outside agent (ball person, spectator, etc) be categorized as Violent Behavior (as per Rule 12.3.2.1). I would appreciate if you could clarify this for me, especially, that for the reporting purposes only one explanation can be chosen.
Stanislaw: There is no question about the difficulty in separating the two behaviors which is where referee discernment is required. The use of the word “deliberate” provides a dashboard item designed to assist any observer when attempting to distinguish between the two terminologies. A “scuffle” is not necessarily a fight nor violent behavior but can include deliberate actions the referee must determine in order to apply the appropriate penalty.
On a related note: What about a situation describing a retaliatory action, when a player violently throws (or kicks) the ball at the opponent right after the foul. Would that be classified as an example of a spontaneous reaction and therefore categorized as Violent Behavior, or rather as a deliberate action and categorized as Fighting?
Stanislaw: Spontaneous action is not included in the NCAA Rules and Interpretations and retaliatory action is not an issue. The referee shall penalize the action which is addressed in Rules 12.2.3.and A.R.12.6.5.b
My question is related to Scoring or Assisting a Goal by an Illegal Substitute: Let’s say a goal is scored. And right BEFORE the kick off, the referee finds out that the goal was scored (or assisted) by an illegal substitute – Is this the Correct Ruling: The goal is disallowed, the illegal substitute is yellow carded (and replaced by the original player), and the game restarted with a goal kick. What if the referee realizes AFTER the kick off that the goal was scored (or assisted) by an illegal substitute and decides to stop the play – Is this the Correct Ruling: The goal stands (since it was NOT discovered before the kick off), the illegal substitute is yellow carded (and replaced by the original player), and the game restarted with an indirect free kick is by the opposing team. Do I have all of that right?
Jeff: There is a conflict in the current (2014-2015) Rules and Interpretations between Rules A.R.3.2.2.d. and A.R.10.4.j.In the former, the referee has until the “end of the game…” to rectify the error. Your interpretation (based on the latter) – except for one item – is also correct. (The one item is that 10.4.j. – although logical – does NOT de facto include removing the player from the game.) For the moment, the best view might be to consider the issue a mater of “parallel truths”. The GOOD NEWS is that, when a rule is not clear, Secretary-Rules Editors are empowered to provide interpretations between annual meetings. (Soccer SRE is Ken Andres [email protected])
My inquiry is related to one of Stanislaw’s questions (as I am having trouble with this topic myself): How is that exactly the same action (as described by Stanislaw – a deliberate strike or punch) be reported as FIGHTING if committed against another player, official, coach or bench personnel, whereas, when committed against an outside agent (ball person, spectator, or anybody else) be reported as VIOLENT BEHAVIOR (as explained in one of your comments)?
Chris: You need to reread the response to Stanislaw’s scenario. The response does not state that the ruling is VIOLENT BEHAVIOR; it merely informs that, albeit the rule pertaining to fighting does not include “others” than “another player, official, coach or bench personnel” while there is a reference to “spectator” in Rule 12.3.2.1.which falls under violent behavior. Clearly, the act of striking or punching is defined as fighting. You will note that the response also included a statement that a report will be made to the Rules Committee suggesting that in the 2016-2017 Rules and Interpretations edition the section on Fighting include references to “others” including spectators.
I am a little confused about Rule 7.4 (Forfeit after 70th minute). Who gets the victory & what is the final score if a game gets terminated after 70th minute? Rule 7.4 says that if a game is forfeited after the game has concluded (Does this mean: Having 70 or more minutes played in the game?) the team that won the game on the field still gets the victory while the team that lost on the field still gets the loss. What if a game is tied at the described termination point (that is after 70th minute) – who gets the victory then and what is the final score? Like I said, I am confused. Logically, I would assume that the opponents shall always be credited with a forfeit win regardless whether the game gets terminated before or after 70th minute? I would appreciate if you could clarify this for me. Thank You.
Mike: I can understand your confusion inasmuch as the forfeiture rule has been many moving parts some, of which, are anomalous at best. The soccer rules committee developed its forfeit rules in keeping with the need to maintain discipline policies that prevent late-game infractions that might serve as counter forces to things like game suspensions. For example, if a player knows he/she will not have to sit out the next game their behavior in the waning minutes of a game they are losing could become overly aggressive if not violent. If a team knows there is no penalty following a given match their behavior might also be less than positive. That notwithstanding, there is a problem with what the rules committee has proffered that is related to broader NCAA Bylaw on forfeits: In soccer, selection committees are instructed to omit forfeitures from the records when determining won-loss records for postseason play. For your further edification, the narrative below is taken from the NCAA Bylaws.
Games later forfeited due to post-game administrative actions do not alter any NCAA statistics and/or records unless they are penalties passed down by the COI or NCAA executive action, or are dictated by the rules of the game. It is suggested schools and conferences denote such games by using an asterisk and a footnote, but continue to list the actual contest results.
Forfeit Scores
If a forfeit is declared by the game official while a contest is in progress or a situation occurs that forces a premature end to the contest by the game official, all statistics (other than won-lost and coaches’ records) are voided unless the contest has progressed to a “reasonable point of conclusion” (see the chart below), in which case all statistics shall count and shall be reflected in all records. If the game had progressed to a “reasonable point of conclusion” and the team that was in the lead at the time was declared the forfeit winner, the score shall stand. If the score was tied or the trailing team was declared the forfeit winner, refer to the chart below for the final recorded score. Also in these cases, in sports where individuals receive wins or losses such as baseball, softball, field hockey, ice hockey and lacrosse, if the forfeit changes the outcome of the game according to the score, do not credit an individual with a win or loss, but rather enter a team line for these statistics. If the declared winner is in the lead, then individuals will receive the win and loss they would have received if the game had ended at that point. In baseball and softball, if the score is reverted back to the end of the previous full inning, then only the statistics up to that point shall count.
If a game in progress is declared a forfeit win for one of the teams by the game officials and the game has not progressed to a “reasonable point of conclusion,” then the official game score should be recorded from the following chart. The team’s won-lost record shall include the forfeit, but if the statistics are voided, all averages in future rankings shall be computed without inclusion of the forfeited contests
NCAA STATISTICS POLICIES AND GUIDELINES Forfeits and Vacancies refer to the chart below for the final recorded score. Also in these cases, in sports where individuals receive wins or losses such as baseball, softball, field hockey, ice hockey and lacrosse, if the forfeit changes the outcome of the game according to the score, do not credit an individual with a win or loss, but rather enter a team line for these statistics. If the declared winner is in the lead, then individuals will receive the win and loss they would have received if the game had ended at that point. In baseball and softball, if the score is reverted back to the end of the previous full inning, then only the statistics up to that point shall count.
If a game in progress is declared a forfeit win for one of the teams by the game officials and the game has not progressed to a “reasonable point of conclusion,” then the official game score should be recorded from the following chart. The team’s won-lost record shall include the forfeit, but if the statistics are voided, all averages in future rankings shall be computed without inclusion of the forfeited contests.
Forfeit Scores
Baseball…………………………………. 9-0 Soccer…………………………………… 1-0
Basketball………………………………. 2-0 Softball………………………………….. 7-0
Field Hockey…………………………… 1-0 Swimming & Diving………………… 11-0
Football………………………………….. 1-0 Tennis……………………………. Withdraw
Golf………………………………. Withdraw Volleyball……………………………….. 3-0
Ice Hockey……………………………… 1-0 Water Polo……………………………… 5-0
Lacrosse………………………………… 1-0 Wrestling……………………………………………………………… 60-0
Cliff – The latest Rule Book Rule 5.6.5 changed the word forfeit to “terminate” for 4 situations. Under what conditions is there now actually a forfeit declared by the referee>
Don: First, you are correct concerning the changing of the word’ forfeit’ to ‘terminate’ in Rule 5.6.5. However, a conundrum exists due to the fact that the 2014 and 2015 Soccer Rules and Interpretations still contains Rule 7.4 Forfeit, No Contest. It was with this in mind that I responded to Mike Broen’s question.
With reference to the rulings involving forfeits there is a longstanding conflict between the NCAA s Policies and Guidelines STATISTICS statements and the language in our soccer rules and interpretations. During my approximately 40 years tenure as SRE there were many exchanges – to no avail – with the statistics people attempting to resolve the conflict. Soccer needed a forfeit option to provide strength to game suspensions as well as a deterrent to late-game theatrics from coaches/players/fans. For example, a player facing ejection could initiate a late-game fight (riot) leading to a terminated game that would expunge a potential loss. Based on the Statistics Rulings there would be no change in the game result (record) if the game had progressed to a reasonable length of termination (in soccer’s case, 70 minutes). In addition, there did (and does) exist a forfeiture option that can be imposed by the Committee on Infractions (COI) for reasons listed in the NCAA Bylaws (Appendix Policies and Guidelines STATISTICS page 23). For practical purposes, it appears that the change of language notwithstanding, there still exists the possibility that a forfeit can occur albeit only from a source remotely linked to championship play and, then, only from a ruling body such as a championship committee and/or the COI.
ONE THING REMAINS:INASMUCH AS THE PRODUCTION OF THE 2016 AND 2017 RULES AND INTERPRETATIONS WILL BE THE PRIMARY AGENDA ITEM ON THEIR SCHEDULE THE MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SOCCER RULES COMMITTEE SHOULD GIVE THE MATTER SERIOUS ATTENTION AT ITS ANNUAL MEETING NEXT JANUARY.
Final note: I have all the language of the Forfeits and Vacancies rulings in a Word document. If you would like to have it (without the arduous search of the publication I’ll be happy to email it to you.). .
Cliff – if it’s not too difficult, i would certainly appreciate this material for my rules documentation.
Dumb question, i’m sure, but I cannot find the answer in the rules book. Does the home team have the right to choose which side of the field to warm up on or do they have to warm up on the same side of the field as their bench?
I missed a question, #39 on the NISOA 2015 Refresher Test: T/F A game cannot begin without the marking of a center circle. The NISOA answer given was True – the game CANNOT start..
There were quite a few rule changes published in the NCAA 2014-15 Soccer manual. Specifically RULE 1, the field of play has quite a few. Rule 1.4 Halfway Line, Center Circle … requires both markings. The PENALTY for non-compliance for this rule, #1.4 is not specifically stated as part of rule 1.4.
In several of the other rules like 1.5 & 1.6, Goal Area & Penalty Area, the penalty IS STATED at the conclusion of the rule. In these two instances the Penalty is, “The game shall not begin …”
In other rules in this section, like #1.7 & 1.8, Corner Area, Hash Mark & Corner Flags, the penalty IS stated, “If it cannot be corrected … begin the game … file a report …”
Logic and the spirit of the game lends me to think that the 10 yard encroachment circle at the center of the field is no different than the corner area / corner flags. The referee is trained and required to judge 10 yards without a painted circle throughout the game and in this instance, while the circle is certainly helpful, it seems as if the game could proceed without it and a report could be filed. The Penalty Area and Goal Area markings can very easily influence the score of a match; whether a foul is a PK or not, whether a GK has exited the Area before it was shot back into the goal … and therefor are held to a more severe penalty.
Further, there is no statement as to penalty for 1.13 Photographer’s Line, and the rule states, “shall”; 1.14, Scorekeeper’s table – “shall.” And to muddy the waters even more, Rule 1.3 states that markings that become obscured during the match shall be assumed to still be there and decisions rendered accordingly. The ref then has to use judgment to determine where the lines are. Under this spirit of the game, a penalty area line that is critical is now OK to be buried under snow and the game will continue, but we cannot start without the center circle and we can start without corner flags and corner arcs / hash marks. In other venues, some improper markings are reported to the governing body and the game is played.
The questions then are:
How do officials determine the penalty of rule violations that pertain to RULE 1 – the field of play when they aren’t individually stated (and there are different penalties for different violations)?
and
Does the center circle violation hold so much weight (similar to PA & GA lines) as to not start a contest?
Please help me to understand the reasoning behind Question 39’s answer “T”.
we will review this with the NCAA rules committee as we rewrite the Rules for 2016-17
NCAA Rule 12.12.1
If a student athlete gets ejected from a scrimmage/exhibition game are they required to miss the next regular season game?
Greg: The answer is “no’. See Rule 12.11.1 – paragraph two sentence two: Scrimmages and exhibition games (including alumni games), scheduled or unscheduled, do not qualify as games with reference to players suspended for accumulated cautions.(Ejections inferred.)
I was recently at a collegiate level soccer game and the center ref had came out with twenty minutes left in the game due to an asthma attack and complaining he had a concussion recently. The official was making unreasonable calls or forgetting that he gave certain players a card the whole game. Can the game be protested because of this?
Melanie: Guidelines for “protests” are set forth in Rule 12.16. What your narrative does not include is what occurred after the referee left the game? Regardless the quality of his calls to that point in time, the assumption is that the game was suspended – hopefully, according to provisions in Rule 7.5. Hypothetically, two options could have been applied: 1. The game continues according to Rules A.R.5.4.1.a.b.c.d. or 2. Under the provisions of Rule 7.5 a suspended game that has progressed to the 70th minute and not resumed the same day MAY be declared a completed contest by the Governing Sports Authority (GSA). In any event, should a protest be submitted, the official answer will be provided by the NCAA Secretary-Rules Editor.
I just received the 2015 edition of the NISOA newsletter. In the article on knowing the rules before you show up to the game the author shares a story about a FIFA referee in which the author was the AO. When the referee stopped the game for an injury in the middle of the field (not in GK possession) that he was going to re-start with a dropped ball and the author corrected him to start with an IFK. I believe this is incorrect procedure. Am I missing something?
Doug: You are correct; the “author” is in error. See Rule 9.3.2. The IFK rule is in order only in the penalty area when the game is suspended while the goalkeeper is in possession of the ball and the infraction is not assessed to her/his team. (See Rule 9.3.2 Exception.)
In the recent newsletter I was amazed at the number of references to FIFA. It is very confusing to some when such references are mentioned. I am full NISOA/NCAA & can see where some may be confused by such.
Ronnie: I’m not sure where the confusion exists inasmuch as both Don Dennison’s perennial (mammoth) work on the Comparative Study of Rules (NCAA/NFHS) and Laws (FIFA) requires expansive treatment and explanation of the differences between those ruling bodies. In addition, Todd Abraham’s very comprehensive tutorial on “consistency with offside interpretation”- – in the current newsletter – necessitates an in-depth explanation of the FIFA rulings because – the love and loyalty of NISOA/NCAA notwithstanding – a vast number of NISOA referees also officiate club and other FIFA competitions. It occurs that such comparisons and references seem not only unavoidable but also mandatory. I hope this helps.
The author was referring to a historical point in time where IFKs were the correct restart for a game suspended for the described incident. At that time, the NCAA Soccer Rules were different from the Laws of the Game for this particular restart.
A white team player takes a shot on goal, the ball is shot directly to the black team goalkeeper where it hits his hands & travels to a white team player who at the time of the initial shot WAS OFFSIDE. The white team player shoots & scores.
Goal or no goal?
Ronnie: Nice to hear from you; hope all is well. Re your question the answer is GOAL. See Rule 11.2.d.
Cliff, see Rule 11 Offside Diagram 11, ruling is offside, is this not the same play as described by Ronnie Cowan?
Lawrence; Diagram 11 describes a situation during the run of play in which Player B is in the offside position as A shoots – and is judged offside – whereby A.R.11.2.d. emanates from an IFK and clearly states that the ruling is a good goal. Granted there are some of the diagrams that have been in the book for decades and are the last, if at all, subject to line-by-line scrutiny given to all other rules at the annual meetings. Ken Andres, current SRE, may be able to provide more insight into how the current committee manages the 19 diagrams in Rule 11 but, I can tell you that during my almost 40 years editing, the “offside/not offside” diagrams were the most tedious and once completed/approved were not studied in depth unless there was a radical rule change to impact their design. In the most recent NISOA Newsletter Todd Abraham offers very helpful insights into the latest emphasis on the offside rule. I hope this helps.
Ronnie: Some of the previous Ask items – and answers – may have been juxtaposed; I addressed your question of whether the offside issue during a free kick nullified the goal. Hope this helps.
I would like to get clarification on two points.
First, under AR 5.5.2.a it says a referee may reverse a decision involving a sudden-victory goal? Ruling: yes, any time before signing the official NCAA box score form or leaving the site of competition…
Second, under Rule 5.6 Referee Discretionary Power A.R. 5.6.1.c May a referee reverse a decision or rescind a card? Ruling: Yes, if the game has not been restarted.
The situation is:
In the second OT period the ball obviously goes out-of-touch off a White player in front of the referee in the referee’s area of responsibility. Referee signals for the throw-in to be taken by White. AR is signaling for the throw-in to be taken by Blue. Referee waves the AR down. White executes the throw-in and plays the ball going towards Blue’s goal and takes a shot and scores. The AR then insists that the throw-in was incorrect. The goal is then taken back and the game restarted with a throw-in by Blue at the spot of the original out-of-touch and resetting the clock. The game ends tied.
So which ruling is applicable? If ruling AR 5.5.2. is applicable, what is the restart? especially if the referee’s have left the field but not signed the NCAA Box score?
Thanks…
Well, my friend Bob, what a fine kettle of fish you have gotten us into. (Just kidding, but the variables you have created in this scenario do represent the need for an interpretation that, hopefully, will not lead to greater confusion.) First, there are some parallel issues that seem to be in conflict. To that end, let’s address the second item first: Rule 5.6 A.R.5.6.1.c. When the rule was first voted, the sense of the meeting was to provide the referee with an option when a card was given in error either for the wrong reason or to the wrong player. The earlier language clearly pertained to the issue of giving a caution/ejection. Somewhere along the line, the word “decision” was included (added?) leading the suggestion that it applies to any decision. As a rule of law, it now means that the rule, as stated, indeed DOES mean ANY decision. So the answer to that question is YES…as long as the game has not restarted.
The second scenario, while very complicated, has two possible answers: 1. Because Rules 5.4.1, 5.4.2, 6.4.3 and 6.4.4 establish the fact that the referee is the “final” judge – and protocols are in place to address the facts of the incidents – he/she does have the option to nullify the goal as have described in the scenario. 2.Since the referees DID NOT “review and sign” the score sheet before leaving the site of the competition they are in violation of part of Rule 5.5.2 and, therefore, guilty of a misapplication of a rule. The latter, albeit “de minimis” is possible grounds for a protest. (See Rule 12.16)
As to the restart, since the decision was made after the referees left the site of the competition, there is no restart.. However, hypothetically, if the action had occurred immediately after the goal was scored, the de facto action was an incorrect throw-in and the restart would have been a throw-in by Blue. (On the other hand, my irreverent response is that since the scenario has so many improbable elements to it, he/she might have given an IFK).
Referee YC cards head coach.Later referee YC asst coach.Then referee YC and then red cards assistant coach. Isn’t the head coach responsible for bench and coaches and should be dismissed when assistant coach got YC. Last Q, should coaches be carded or issued verbal reprimands,please get back to me WIAC Wisconsin referee coordinator
David: First, coaches and other bench personnel are subject to the same rules and disciplines (cautions, ejections, verbal communication from the referee (reprimands??) as players. However, each person is treated individually as it pertains to his/her behavior. The giving of cautions, ejections – example “bench warnings, etc.” was eliminated several years ago. There are some occasions when the head coach is cautioned for certain violations (example too many and/or illegal player(s) on the field – See A.R.10.4.j); however, for the most part only the offending party or parties are to be penalized. As to your final question ::If guilty of any of the violations set forth in the rules the answer is: Absolutely!.
In taking a penalty kick the referee sounds the whistle, the taker approaches the ball but stops and then continues, strikes the ball at the same time the referee sounds the whistle and the goalie makes the save. What is the correct restart – play on, indirect kick to to defending team, re-take of the penalty kick, or drop ball.
First, to all, my [email protected] is temporarily out of service so please note the [email protected] Thanks.
Re. Dean’s question: The specific example you have given does not have a clear cut answer. To that end an interpretation has to be made – ultimately by the NCAA SRE (Ken Andres) whose authority allows him to do so between annual meetings. Having said that, inasmuch as the rules book does not provide a specific answer the factors pertaining to the formula the referee chooses are as follows: One, the player taking the kick has violated Rule 14..A.R.14.2.d.by stopping before continuing to take the kick. The PENALTY set forth in this section does not address this infraction so we defer to Rule 14.3 Under Infringements – Rule 14.3.3 is the de facto rule addressing the example you have given. Since the rule does not make a distinction between “infringements” and “violations” the referee must base his/her judgment on the implicit evidence: This rule states that “…any infringement the kicker commits BEFORE and/or AFTER the kick is taken is punishable by a caution or ejection. Since the stutter step is obviated by the player “stopping” the “infringement” (violation) is, indeed, the stopping – hardly in the category of those acts leading to a caution let alone an ejection. What is clear is that “a goal my not be scored” and “the game shall be restarted with a free kick…” which in this scenario would be an indirect kick by the defending team. (Note: I will pass this along to the committee whose meetings next January I know will involve special attention to this rule as to all others.) Hope this helps.
I have what is hopefully an easy question. Are players permitted to wear soft hats or head coverings in inclement weather assuming that the referee checks same and considers them to be safe?
Rule 4.5.4 states “Headgear, headbands, and hats (goalkeepers only) are legal providing they are not considered dangerous to any play.”
It is the “(goalkeepers only)” notation that seems to imply no, but the concept of “headgear” is pretty broad and certainly seems to include soft caps.
By comparison, FIFA/USSF now allow “head covers” as long as they are safe and are either black or the same main color as the jersey (P. 69 of the 2015-16 Laws of the Game) and the 2015-15 NFHS Soccer Rule Book says that “By state association adoption, players may wear soft and yielding caps during inclement weather. Caps must be alike in color.” (P. 27, Rule 4.2.1 exceptions #3)
Thanks for your anticipated answer.
Pete: The most direct answer to your question is “YES”. It is a judgment call driven by the safety factor and acceptable under the broader definition of headbands – similar to those worn in basketball and, certainly, in frigid weather. The inclusion of the word “hats”, derived from the rule established a few decades ago, to allow the goalkeeper (as well as the referees at that time) to wear a ‘billed’ hat/cap to shield eyes from bright sun. Such apparel is not allowed for field players. Going forward, I will ask Ken Andres, NCAA SRE and Todd Abraham, NISOA representative serving on the Rules Committee, to provide more specific clarity in the 2016-17 edition of Rules and Interpretations they will be preparing at their meetings in January.
Thanks Cliff, much appreciated!
We’re in it together, Pete. God bless.
Mr. McCrath, another clarification issue. In a game this past week the timekeeper followed what was considered the normal operational procedure for starting the halftime interval clock. After the horn sounded for the end of the first half, the timekeeper started the clock for the halftime interval. A coach objected. His objection is that the halftime clock is not supposed to start until the teams are “off” the field. On page 31 under the Recommended Timing Sheets there is no reference under the regular-season for Halftime, but then you drop down to what appears to be under Postseason Pregame schedule and you find “Halftime 15:00 – 17:00 — Start immediately as teams exit field.”
So the clarification is when do you start the halftime interval clock? — “as teams exit field” mean v. teams “off” the field?
Thanks.
Might I suggest that the Halftime wording along with kickoff – second half be inserted under regular-season timing to help clarify? Now it appears only to apply to Postseason timing.
Reply to Bob Linebaugh: The term “exit” is vague and subject to the referee’s discretion. When the rule was first written the sense of the meeting was that the clock would begin “AFTER” the teams have left the field but inasmuch as many teams allow substitutes to remain of the field during halftime the common practice has been to start the clock when it appears that most of the participants appear to have exited the playing area. A recommendation to clarify will be provided to the Rules Committee for their meetings in January as they prepare changes for the 2016 and 2017 book. Meanwhile, referee discretion when pregame instructions are given to the timekeeper.
Does the NCAA Rule book address the use of tape on the outside of players socks?
Reply to Steve Harvey: The simple answer is “NO”. A related answer is: The only reference to “tape” is in Rule 4.6 to Medical bracelets or necklaces that must be taped to the body. Action by the referee with reference to any deviation from the rule pertaining to a player’s standard uniform could be applied if the use of tape altars conforming to the rule. Example (extreme): If the socks are black and the use of tape makes them appear white the referee would be justified in directing the player to remove the tape.
FIFA and USSF changed its interpretation on the application of advantage several years ago to include infringements outside of Law 12 (e.g. physical fouls). Advantage now can be applied for infringements in other Laws (e.g. double touch situations, offside situations, even kickoff situations). NCAA rule 5.4.3 refers only to the word “‘foul’ in applying advantage. Does this mean NCAA rules are not abiding by these new interpretations or should the word ‘foul’ be changed to ‘offense’ or ‘infringement’ in the NCAA book.
Fred: Collegiate soccer in the U.S. is governed by NCAA Soccer 2014 and 2015 Rules and Interpretations. The many FIFA parallels notwithstanding the applicable rules together with specific language – example “foul” – are to be followed without exception. The Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules Committee will meet in Baltimore this coming January and are always open to suggestions and recommendations which will include your proposal for Rule 5.4.3.
Thanks for the response. I would suggest the Rules Committee look at this as they apparently did with the new FIFA offside interpretations from two years ago.
Fred: My thanks. Your recommendation will be delivered to the committee.
If a player goes down with an injury (not involving the head or blood), the referee stops the clock, and signals the athletic trainer on to the field, does the trainer have to go onto the field? Additionally, does the player have to come off of the field even if the trainer doesn’t come on, in the same situation?
Ash: Rule 5.6.7 A.R.5.6.7.1 is clear providing all aspects of the process are met. Since your example introduces variables that require a discretionary option that does not de facto follow the rule it may be helpful to break it down as follows: Scenario 1: On the one hand if the referee signals the clock to be stopped – and beckons medical personnel onto the field – the rule requires the player to “…leave or be removed from the field” This scenario is open and shut: medical personnel enters, attends and, together with the player leaves the field and the rule is upheld without incident.Scenario 2: More frequently the injury starts out looking like one that triggers the action in scenario 1. but early into the process the player ‘recovers’, medical personnel never enter the field – or return to the sidelines – the remaining steps of the process are obviated and the game is allowed to resume without the player having to leave the field. For the most part, even though medical personnel have been BECKONED under the conditions set forth in the rule (example the referee signals the clock to be stopped and the game is suspended), the more pragmatic solution is to wave the unmet elements of the rule and proceed with the game under the conditions of Scenario 2. It’s a little like what happens to us in life, something happens – example our smoke alarm goes off leading to the impulse to call 911,but within seconds the danger passes and the ‘impulse’ actions are cancelled. The MORAL? Some rules are made to be followed to the nth degree but most are there to provide guidelines for practical management of the game – and the best referees are the ones that know the difference. Hope this helps.
Cliff: I included this back in a response in the area of 15 oct 2013, but was not sure older areas are still monitored…
As a retired coach and former HS certified ref, I have what might be an obsolete understanding of some of the rules…
As I attend U of I soccer games, questions come to mind… I know college rules can vary somewhat, and I know not which alphabet rules Uof I women play under,, but the gist of the game shouldn’t be allowed to be affected.
The period time clock used to be kept by the referee, and when the scoreboard clock runs out (if there was one), the play would sometimes continue, because of “field time” stoppages, where the ref has stopped his watch to maintain control, or for injuries.
The effect on game strategy was one where no one was entirely sure when the play will stop, and everyone played to the whistle, and that affected how the teams operated as they approach this critical ending time. Time traditionally runs from zero to forty five minutes, or whatever limit the league sets, and goals are traditionally reported as having occurred in the 34th minute, or the 69th minute of the game.
U of I, on the other hand, runs their time clock down from 45 minutes, not up, and it grates severely on me to hear the announcer’s “ten, nine, eight” countdown to zero, and I have never observed play continue beyond that point, so is this an aberration of the rules, and is it “changing the game?” Do the refs at U of I soccer games ever go beyond the ending called by the announcer? Haven’t seen it happen! Has the ref’s ability to extend playtime beyond the scoreboard clock gone away?
And in traveling with the team elsewhere, I am unclear that our opponents keep time the same way, so is this practice league-wide, or just a local condition?
Vince: Apologies for this delayed response which I blame on an entire week at the Baltimore coaches convention l am happy to answer your questions but inasmuch as there are several layers please allow me to copy your narrative below and address each in caps as follows:
As I attend U of I soccer games, questions come to mind… I know college rules can vary somewhat, and I know not which alphabet rules U of I women play under,, but the gist of the game shouldn’t be allowed to be affected.
ANSWER: MEN, WOMEN – AND ALL COLLEGIATE ASSOCIATIONS (EXAMPLE NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA, NCCAA, ET AL) IN THE USA (AND SOME CANADIAN SCHOOLS – NOTABLY SIMON FRASER Vancouver, BC) ALL CONDUCT THEIR GAMES UNDER THE NCAA MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SOCCER RULES (NEW TWO-YEAR BOOK DUE THIS COMING JULY.)
The period time clock used to be kept by the referee, and when the scoreboard clock runs out (if there was one), the play would sometimes continue, because of “field time” stoppages, where the ref has stopped his watch to maintain control, or for injuries.
ANSWER: RULE 6.3.1 STATES “WHEN AN ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED SCOREBOARD CLOCK IS VISIBLE TO BOTH BENCHES AND SPECTATORS, IT SHALL BE USED AS THE OFFICIAL TIMEPIECE.”. (NOTE: THIS RULE WAS ESTABLISHED BY THE RULES COMMITTEE OVER 30 YEARS AGO PRIMARILY TO PROVIDE SPECTATORS WITH THE SAME BENEFITS AVAILBLEI IN OTHER AMERICAN SPECTATOR SPORTS.) FIELD STOPPAGES CEASED TO BE AN ISSUE SINCE ALL COULD/CAN SEE THE CLOCK STOP AND START. COLLATERAL RULES YOU MAY WANT TO STUDY ARE: A.R.5.6.1.e; 6.3.2; 6.3.3; 6.3.3.1; 6.3.9 AND A.R.6.3.9
The effect on game strategy was one where no one was entirely sure when the play will stop, and everyone played to the whistle, and that affected how the teams operated as they approach this critical ending time. Time traditionally runs from zero to forty five minutes, or whatever limit the league sets, and goals are traditionally reported as having occurred in the 34th minute, or the 69th minute of the game
ANSWER: RULE 6.3.1
U of I, on the other hand, runs their time clock down from 45 minutes, not up, and it grates severely on me to hear the announcer’s “ten, nine, eight” countdown to zero, and I have never observed play continue beyond that point, so is this an aberration of the rules, and is it “changing the game?” Do the refs at U of I soccer games ever go beyond the ending called by the announcer? Haven’t seen it happen! Has the ref’s ability to extend playtime beyond the scoreboard clock gone away?
ANSWER: AGAIN SEE RULE 6.3.1 AS WELL AS 6.3.2 IN OTHER WORDS, YES, THE REFEREE HAS THE POWER TO CONTROL THE CLOCK INCLUDING ADDING TIME – IF THE TIMEKEEPER FAILS TO STOP, ETC. – OR DEDUCTING TIME.
And in traveling with the team elsewhere, I am unclear that our opponents keep time the same way, so is this practice league-wide, or just a local condition
ANSWER: THE RULE APPLIES TO ALL COLLEGIATE SOCCER CONTESTS IN AMERICA,
Hope this helps.
I have been meeting with soccer coaches at colleges around the Southeast about putting a FitBit on their players as a way to monitor their players safety and recovery during practice and games. However, after speaking with one ACC head soccer coach, he found out that it is illegal to wear a FitBit during a soccer match. Why is this? We are working to give coaches the resources to maximize player safety and provide them with a wearable that is almost nonexistent in soccer, but it is outlawed. Can I have more information on what the rule actually states? Would players be able to tape over the wearable to make it legal? Thanks for your input.
Nathan: A few moving parts here. First, you need to confront the ACC head soccer coach re his claim that the Fitbit is illegal. Clearly there are a number of the FitBit devices vis-a-vis FitBit Blaze, Super Watch, Trinket, Clip and Flex One that, de facto, are not permitted for the usual reasons – example, metal, watch, zip, etc. However, the wristband including the Flex and Classic are permitted under Rule 4.5.6.Should the referee question the use of these – as is – the devices can then be covered with soft foam, elastic and/or normal tape coverings to conform to Rule 4.5.3.
Regarding the new NCAA rule on video reviews, it states that the monitor must be at the scorer’s table or at field level. Many schools now have large video screens mounted rather high above the field that may be seen by the spectators and the teams. Are such monitors acceptable for video review even though technically not “at field level”?
No they are not. This is covered in the training material distributed to all chapters and will be explicitly covered in the preseason training.
Todd
Todd i was told that to get hold of you about a copy of the entrance exam, are they out to chapter contact or are suppose ask for one like i said previously Mr.Vaarst told me get hold of you,sorry for inconvience .
exam was e-mailed earlier in the week
Aloha – I was reviewing the rule changes for the upcoming season and had a question re: Rule 15.2. AR 15.2.b states that a caution for unsporting behavior should be given for attempting to interfere with a throw in. Howver, cautions for interfering with a throw in is already covered in 12.4.7 Failure to respect the required distance… throw-in.
Are there circumstance when it should be one rather than the other?
Mahalo
One can interfere with the throw-in and still be the proper distance. One can be within the required distance and not interfering in any other way; therefore, determine the issue to be dealt with and use the associated reason
Inclement Weather Policy:
Is the 30-30 rule for lightning still the standard for clearing a field during storm conditions. It is no longer mentioned in the rule book. We had a few issues in the past with lightning systems not functioning properly and/or mismanaged in get games in. Having the policy in the rule book supports the officials when they make the decision to clear the field in the best interest of the players and spectators.
Tom: Thanks for your question. The answer is: THE 30-30 RULE IS STILL IN EFFECT FOR 2016-17. Regrettably, Rule 7.6 – in the new 2016-17 Soccer Rules – does not spell out the exact steps the referee is to take when lightning is present. The NCAA does provide detailed guidance on lightning (and other environmental hazards) in the NCAA Sports Medicine Handbook which is available at http://www.NCAA.org.Having said that, one of the benefits of NISOA’s “ASK” is obtaining a direct answer – from our ‘panel’ (Andres, Abraham, McCrath) – which saves you the trouble. To that end, here’s the gist of the NCAA ruling applicable to all weather impacted sports.To resume athletics activities, lightning safety experts recommend waiting 30 minutes after both the last sound of thunder and last flash of lightning. The use of lightning safety slogans to simplify and summarize essential information and knowledge is helpful.(Some excerpts) a.For example, the following slogan from the National Lightning Safety Institute is an effective guide: “If you see it, flee it; if you can hear it, clear it.” This slogan reflects the fact that upon the first sound of thunder, lightning is likely within eight to 10 miles and capable of striking your location. No punishment or retribution should be applied to someone who chooses to evacuate if perceiving that his or her life is in danger due to severe weather. b. Designation of a person to monitor threatening weather and to notify the chain of command who can make the decision to remove a team, game personnel, television crews, and spectators from an athletics site or event. That person must have recognized and unchallengeable authority to suspect activity c. Planned instructions/announcements for participants and spectators, designation of warning and all clear signals, proper signage, and designation of safer places from the lightning hazard. A useful slogan is “half an hour since thunder roars, now it’s safe to go outdoors.” At night, be aware that lightning can be visible at a much greater distance than during the day as clouds are being lit from the inside by lightning. This greater distance may mean that the lightning is no longer a significant threat. At night, use both the sound of thunder and seeing the lightning channel itself to decide on re-setting the 30-minute “return-to-play” clock before resuming outdoor athletics activities
Lengthy reply but, hopefully, a helpful buffer to your excellent question. More importantly, your concern.
For anyone who knows the answer to this question,in a college game can referees use vanishing spray if not when thank you
Richard: Answer is YES. Referee’s discretion. Spray away!
what is the ruling for spectaters using a non powered megaphone at a soccer game both NAIA and NCAA rules are they the same?
Dan: Acceptable. Or as Ken Andres, barrister and SRE for NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer, would say: LEGAL!
During a D1 Men’s match, a player re-entered the second half 2 times (no injury or blood was involved in the substitutions). Can the match be protested by the opposing team’s coach.
Simon: The rule is not restricted to a D1 Men’s match. The NCAA Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules apply to all collegiate soccer contests. With reference to your question the ANSWER is YES. A.R. 5.8.b. A protest is filed documenting the fact that a goal was scored by an opponent who was an illegal player. RULING: Protest may be granted depending upon whether it clearly has a direct impact on the outcome of the game.Conclusion: The player in your scenario is deemed illegal inasmuch as he/she is not permitted a second reentry and, therefore, is an illegal player. Note the rule does not guarantee the protest will be granted (by the SRE) but the option to submit a protest is allowable under the rule.
NAIA – visiting team – Is white tape allowed on the dark socks?
Erik: Allowed!
A college coach has asked me to find out if the following situation can be protested and the out come of the game reversed.
At 86 minute of the game sores was 2-1 for team A, team B scores a goal and ties the game at 86 minute. The game goes to OT and team B wins 3-2. Team A’s coach after watching the game tape discovers at the 86 minutes team B has 12 player on the field and he insists he can prove it with the game tape that team B had an extra player in the game. The question is, can the result be reversed and team A be declared a winner 2-1 or the 3-2 for team B stands.
Andre: The NISOA “ASK” service is a team affair that involves answers provided by yours truly as well as Todd Abraham – Director of Instruction and former NISOA President, Ken Andres, current NCAA SRE and yours truly. Todd answered a direct request that included a cc to you and others. For the good of the game and what may be helpful to many others the following is what Todd provided which is totally consistent with what we all agree is the proper interpretation: ANSWER: This can be corrected (goal nullified) until the referee jurisdiction ends (when he / she leave the premises). A protest may be filed and the SRE will judge whether the extra player had a material impact on the match.
Hope it helps.
Thank you Mr. McCrath.
Player A2 is fouled as he passes the ball to his teammate. Referee observes foul but” holds his whistle” and does not verbalize “play on”.
Ball is received by teammate A3 who is flagged for an offside infraction.
Question(s)
-Is advantage “implied” even though it was not “announced” by the Referee?
-Because the advantage is negated by the offside infraction, should the Referee then penalize the observed foul?
John: Your question raises an issue that does not include a specific set of actions by the referee. The Rule in question is 5.4.3 which, in its entirety, pertains to the broader aspects of the referee’s power of penalizing but includes elements of the scenario you have described. To that end, the rule states that, “When the referee observes a foul that is not to be penalized, the referee shall call out the words “play on” and signal accordingly to indicate that the foul has been acknowledged. However, if the advantage does not materialize, the referee shall then blow the whistle and award a free kick.” Since the specific situation you describe is not addressed by the rule and since the failure of the referee to call out “play on” did not occur the “play on” is assumed de facto by the continuation of play. The next sequence observed by the referee is an offside pass which the referee should, rightfully, whistle as an infraction and award an IFK to the opposing team. The only time he/she might penalize the original foul is if it warrants disciplinary action; a discretionary judgment which would obviate the offside call – and the “advantage option” – presumably because the whistle would be blown at the instant the “foul” occurred. NOTE: In case it is questioned, there is no rule In this scenario that involves penalty or protest because the referee was remiss for not calling out “Play On”
Mr. McCrath…If the advantage is “assumed, de facto by the continuation of play”, wouldn’t the teammate receiving the pass in an offside position negate any advantage to the fouled player, (team)?
John: The answer to your follow-up question is: YES. You are correct that the offside pass obviates the previous issue, however, your original question pertained to the referee’s failure to signal/call out “play on” which we avowed was not cause to stop play hence the next sequence becomes the prima facie which, in your example, became an offside pass which ends play giving the other team an IFK.
Mr. McCrath…As I understand you, since the foul of A2 was not acknowledged, by either verbalizing “play on” or a whistle, the only infraction that can be recognized and therefore penalized was the flagged offside infraction.
Correct.
Can you give a free kick for discent? That happened in my college game today.
Jack: The answer is YES. See Rule 12.2 for all Indirect Free-Kick Offenses for which an indirect free kick shall be awarded which includes the answer to your specific question set forth in: 12.2.7 Dissenting by word or action with a referee’s decision;
Nisoa.com states “The NCAA and IFAB are fully aligned on all offside interpretations and restarts.” IFAB now awards the restart at the location the offside player becomes involved in active play, which can result in a team taking the restart from an offside in their attacking half. The NCAA rule still states “PENALTY-Indirect kick from the point of the infraction.” Should we take these two quotes to mean that NISOA is interpreting “the point of the infraction” to be the point where the offensive player becomes involved in active play rather than the point where they were in the offside position?
Yes – the interpretation is consistent with IFAB. The “point of infraction” is where the offensive player interferes with play or interferes with an opponent and that becomes the position of the restart. Therefore, an offside restart may now be in the opponent’s half of the field, if that is where the player who interfered with play from an offside position ultimately touches the ball.
Section A.R. 5.7.h. states ” If the game was stopped with the ball in play on the field of play restart with a drop ball at the spot where the ball was located at the time of stoppage, unless the stoppage occurred while the ball was in the penalty area. In that case, restart with a drop ball outside the penalty area, at a corner at the top of the penalty area.”. Section 9.3.2 states ” If a goalkeeper is in possession of the ball at the time of a stoppage other than a foul by the goalkeeper or a member of his/her team, the restart shall be an indirect free kick.” Which section do we follow if there is a question on a goal scored and the ball ends up in the goal keeper’s hands? At that point the goal scoring opportunity is over, so we should stop for video review. If the goal was not scored to we start with a drop ball at the top corner of the penalty area or with an indirect free kick for the goal keeper’s team?
If the game is stopped with the GK in possession and video review result is “no goal”, the proper restart is an indirect free kick for the GK’s team
-Player B2 is fouled as he clears the ball. The ball goes into touch for A team throw-in.
(Foul occurs on opposite touchline from AR1, because of distance from play, (approx. 50 yds.), and referee proximity, AR1 does not flag the observed foul.)
-Referee is screened from the play and does not whistle infraction.
-B2 is injured and the clock is stopped.
-Referee conferences with AR1 and it is determined that a foul occurred as well as misconduct.
What is the referee’s recourse?
John: Punish the foul. The AR’s duties set forth in Rule 6 include the following: 6.1.5 Assist the referee (subject to the referee’s decision and supervision) to control the game in accordance with the rules by 6.1.5.1 Indicating to the referee any breach of the rules that the referee may not have seen;6.1.5.4 Giving an opinion on any point on which the referee may request.
At a match that we hosted, the official did not let one of the opposing players enter the game because he was wearing glasses. He insisted that people wearing “street” glasses or prescription glasses were not allowed. He then said that if I as the host AD, would take responsibility he would allow the young man to play. I told him that was fine. He then came back and changed his mind, citing rule 4.5.1. Is the intent of that rule to include eyeglasses?
Joe: There is no specific rule stating that a player cannot wear glasses. Having said that, Rule 4.5.1 – “A player shall not wear anything that is dangerous to any player” empowers the referee to make a discretionary judgment if he/she determines that any article – listed or not listed in Rule 4 – constitutes a danger to players including the player in question.To that end, the referee’s judgment was correct and he acted within the purview of his discretionary powes. As an aside, throughout my 49 years on the sidelines – and approx. 40 as NCAA SRE – my approach was always to ensure that players needing to wear glasses take steps to acquire “safety” glasses (usually made of unbreakable plastic, etc.) Hope this helps.
It a goalkeeper is treated for an injury on the field does the player have to leave the field or are they allowed to stay since they are the goalkeeper?
I know field players must leave the field when treated by a trainer
James: The keeper may be treated on the field. See Rule A.R. 5.6.7.1.b. If the injured player is the goalkeeper, may the player remain in the game and be treated on the field of play? RULING: Yes
Rule for 2017 for substitutions. Can player reenter the match in 1st half if he is sub out? Can he come back in 2nd half of match?
Thank you
Bruce: First, the quick answer to your question is: Any player, provided he/she is eligible (example, has not been ejected, concussion, bleeding etc.) substituted for in the first half can “come back” in the second (and OT periods) half. Further, that player is allowed one reentry in the second period only. Note: There are exceptions to the rule (example injury caused by an opponent that is cautioned or ejected for the act. Second, I recommend you read the entirety of Rules 3.6.1 (Filed Players) and 3.6.2 Goalkeeper (copied below) for full understanding of the rule.
3.6 Re-entry Conditions, Restrictions, Exceptions
3.6.1 Field Players. With reference to periods of play, substitutions are permitted as follows:
First half: no re-entry.
Second half: one re-entry.
First overtime period: no re-entry.
Second overtime period: no re-entry.
A.R. 3.6.1.a. May a player who is replaced in the first overtime period re-enter the game in the second overtime period? RULING: Yes.
A.R. 3.6.1.b. A player does not start the second half but later enters the game and subsequently is substituted for. May that player re-enter the game in the second half? RULING: Yes.
3.6.2 Goalkeepers. With reference to periods of play, substitutions are permitted as follows: First half: One re-entry. Second half: One re-entry. First overtime period: One re-entry. Second overtime period: One re-entry.
A.R. 3.6.2. A goalkeeper is replaced by a substitute during the first half or an overtime period, remains on the field as a field player and later is replaced by a substitute. During the same period, the coach instructs the original goalkeeper to substitute for the current goalkeeper. RULING: Illegal. Once the original goalkeeper changes positions, the rule for that position (for example, midfielder) applies. A player who has not yet entered the game may substitute (that is, one re-entry) for the goalkeeper as per Rule 3.6.1.
If a goalkeeper goes down with a potential head injury, what are the rules about stopping play?
Patty: First, I suggest if you refer to our reply to Bruce Lavery it will lead you to the answers set forth in Rule 3.6. Second, the primary rule pertaining to treating an injured goalkeeper is: A.R. 5.6.7.1.b. If the injured player is the goalkeeper, may the player remain in the game and be treated on the field of play? RULING: Yes.
Second, because the injury involves a potential concussion Rule 5.6.7.2 comes into play:Rule 5.6.7.2 reads: Bleeding, blood on uniform or signs of concussion: Summon medical personnel to escort or remove the player(s) from the field of play. The player(s) may re-enter the game after the injury has been properly treated,the uniform has been evaluated by appropriate medical personnel for potential issues and changed, if necessary, before return to participation and permission has been granted by the referee. (See Rule 3.6.3.2.)
In other words, if the concussion is determined to be moderate AND concussion treatment protocol can be successfully performed within a reasonable period of time, it can occur during such on field stoppage of play. If prolonged treatment is judged necessary, the referee should judge that Rule 5.6.7.2 takes precedence over Rule A.R.5.6.7.1.b and instruct medical personnel to remove the player and resume play. .
Thanks for the quick reply. My question had more to do with stopping the game when the goalkeeper is down more than if the injured goalkeeper can return to play. I’m thinking it is referee’s judgment, so perhaps not covered by the official rules. I saw this situation in two different games this weekend, with two completely different decisions and outcomes, so I was wondering if there was any official ruling on the issue.
In the first case, the goalkeeper blocked a shot, and the opposing team had possession, when she doubled over as if she was hit in the stomach. The referees stopped the play and the sideline ref indicated that the rule was to stop the play when it’s the goalkeeper injured. She was NOT on the ground.
In the second case, the goalkeeper came out to kick a ball and collided with an opposing player (and the ball) and went down grabbing her head, and stayed down. Play continued with the keeper on the ground and the opposing team managed to get possession and scored a goal. It was completely opposite, and a much more dangerous scenario than the first case.
So I guess my question really is, is there a rule about stopping play for an injury or is it just at the discretion of the referee?
Patty: Quick answer: Other than common or uncommon SENSE there is no language in the injury rules about STOPPING PLAY. Your meticulous structuring of this situation is laudable and may lead to what the Rules Committee may include in the 2018-19 rules book as The Patty Rule. The reason being that nowhere in the rules pertaining to injuries does it actually state the referee is to blow the whistle and suspend play. I hasten to say such directives are used in other rules such as: “A caution is a formal disciplinary action requiring specific procedures to be followed by the referee including STOPPING THE CLOCK, SUSPENDING PLAY…” and, with reference to actions pertaining to artificial noisemakers as in “…5.6.9 SUSPEND THE GAME, STOP the clock etc….” HOWEVER, there is no such language in the injury items. Having said that, there is an assumption that such procedures presuppose the referee whistle to suspend the game and summon “medical personnel”. I repeat: Common sense suggests the same. Todd Abraham is NISOA’s Director of Instruction and a collaborative member of NISOA’s “ASK” service and may weigh in to what is included in NISOA training programs. In the end, any competent referee will most assuredly blow the whistle and suspend play IMMDEIATELY should a player succumb to the situations you have described.
I’ll come back to your original question with the benefit of the perspective of the follow-ups and Cliff’s notes.
The NCAA rules are very explicit about a potential head injury:
5.6.7.2 Bleeding, blood on uniform or signs of concussion: Summon medical personnel to escort or remove the player(s) from the field of play. The player(s) may re-enter the game after the injury has been properly treated, the uniform has been evaluated by appropriate medical personnel for potential issues and changed, if necessary, before return to participation and permission has been granted by the referee. (See Rule 3.6.3.2.)
Additionally, Appendix C – CONCUSSIONS states:
Game officials are often in a best position to observe student-athletes up-close, and may be the first to notice the unusual behaviors that indicate a concussion may be present. Student-athletes with a suspected concussion must be removed from competition so that a medical examination can be conducted by the
primary athletics healthcare provider (i.e., athletic trainer or team physician). Importantly, a game official is not expected to evaluate a student-athlete. Instead, if an official notices any unusual behavior, the official should stop play immediately and call an injury time-out so that an appropriate medical examination can be conducted. A simple guide to the official’s role is: “When in doubt, call an injury time-out.”
Player safety is always paramount – in any situation – ensure the safety of a player. All of our training and the NCAA Rules require the game to be suspended when player safety is in jeopardy
I guess an injury time-out was eventually called, but it was approximately 20 seconds after the keeper went down and the other team had a chance to gain possession of the ball and score. In my opinion (and the opinion of many other people there) the keeper’s safety was definitely in jeopardy with players running around her kicking the ball while she is laying on the ground holding her head.
Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions. I would love to have something added to the rule book about suspending play immediately when a player goes down with a potential head injury. I realize that may sometimes require a judgment call, but in this case anyone watching the game (and I’m actually not convinced that the officials were watching the game) could see the impact and the player immediately going down as potentially a serious injury.
Again thank you to you and Cliff for so thoroughly answering this question.
Thank you very much for your answer. It would be very good to see the rules changed, because obviously common sense doesn’t prevail all the time, and certainly didn’t in this case. At least if there were a rule, the goal could have been challenged and an official complaint against the official could be backed up. Instead, in this case, we have an official who apparently listed to the opposing team’s coach encouraged play to continue, and the girls celebrated with jumps in the air and high fives afterward, all while the keeper is still on the ground. The keeper was evaluated and has a concussion. I am planning to file a complaint against the officials, as well as the coach and team for unsportsmanlike conduct, but how to I make a formal suggestion to the Rules Committee?
Thank you, Patty, for the further details on what has to be remedied with both the local referee’s association and the national rules committee. As Todd has pointed out the procedure is part of the instructions in the Appendix but need to be a point of emphasis in the rule itself. Because of Todd’s peerless dedication to detail I assure you it will be part of his instructional clinics for national referees as well as the association in general. As to your question re a report in the game in question you need to contact the local assignor and ask where to send it. I wish you well.
We are having discussions on when the ball is in play in the following instance. There is a shot on goal, the keeper catches the shot. This keeper is a drop kicker (punter). It’s the end of the game, he drops the ball, ball hits the ground and at the same time a player from the opposing team sticks his toe in and knocks the ball to his teammate who scores. Meanwhile the goalie swings and misses. Is this allowable? Once the keeper lets the ball hit the ground, is the ball in play? Please advise? Thank you!
Phillip: Simple answer: The actions of the field player are not permitted. See Rules 12.2.12 Interfering with the goalkeeper or impeding the goalkeeper in ANY manner until he or she releases the ball, or kicking or attempting to kick the ball when it is in the goalkeeper’s possession; A.R.12.2.12. A player raises his or her foot as the goalkeeper kicks the ball from his or her hands. RULING: Indirect free kick.A.R. 12.2.13.1.a. May a player stand in front of the goalkeeper during a corner kick without trying to play the ball but merely trying to stop the goalkeeper from playing it? RULING: No. Indirect free kick from the point of infraction.A.R. 12.2.13.1.b. May an opposing player ever take a position in front of a goalkeeper who is in possession of the ball? RULING: No
How do you determine if a goalkeeper has possession of the ball and when the ball is fair play for any player. For example if the ball is in the box after a corner kick or free kick and everyone is scrambling for the ball what constitutes the ball being in the keeper’s possession?
Nalina: The primary answers to your question concerning goalkeeper possession can be found in Rule 3.3 Goalkeeper Privileges: Within his or her penalty area, the goalkeeper has certain privileges not given
to any other player. These privileges include:
3.3.1 Handling. The goalkeeper may catch, carry, strike or propel the ball with the hands or arms; and
3.3.2 Possession.
3.3.2.1 The act of distributing the ball after control (for example, dropping the ball for the kick, parrying, throwing, etc.);
3.3.2.2 Tossing the ball into the air and re-catching it as long as the ball is
released into play within six seconds; or
3.3.2.3 Pinning the ball to the ground
There are additional goalkeeper references in Rule 12.1+ you may want to review.
NAIA match – Throw in for defense is unchallenged by opponent and thrown directly to a teammates head who then heads it to the keeper and the keeper takes control of the ball with his hands.
Would this fall under rule 12.3.3 as trickery?
Jim: No. Albeit trickery is involved with reference to Rule 12.3.3 (see below) Rule A.R. 12.3.2.2. addresses the issue you raise. May a teammate, while defending against a corner kick, head the ball in the direction of the goalkeeper, who receives it with his or her hands? RULING: Yes. In short, a ball thrown to the head of a teammate is allowed inasmuch as it is in play – whether or not it is challenged by an opponent. The exception is set forth in 12.3.3 Trickery. A player may pass the ball to his or her own goalkeeper using the head, knee, chest, etc. However, if a player uses trickery in any form (for instance, flicking the ball with the foot in order to head it to the goalkeeper), the player is guilty of unsporting behavior. The referee shall caution the player and award the opposing team an indirect free kick from the point of infraction.
The corner kick example wouldn’t be a good comparison since the ball was originally played by an opponent. The problem that I see with this is the intent to circumvent the rules. The players know that they cannot throw the ball in directly to the keepers hands so instead they intentionally throw it to a teammates head and then the keeper plays it with their hands. Wouldn’t this be the same as a player flicking the ball up with his foot to a teammates head and then the keeper playing it with their hands? In 12.3.3 the example makes it sound as if the same player is flicking the ball to their head so the question then becomes if it is allowed if you involve more than one player?
Jim: The player flicking the ball to his/her head is the one who initiates the action from his/her own foot to the head thereby trickery. A ball arriving at a player’s head from any other source – example a corner kick, a kick passed from another player – his/her own or an opponent, or any other source from the run of play – can, legally, be headed to the goalkeeper. Another way to view it? Just add an opponent running at the player who then heads to the goalkeeper and it is not trickery.
Cliff,
Are players on the bench REQUIRED to wear a uniform while sitting on the bench? If they are permitted to wear a top other than a uniform, must it have their jersey number for identification purposes? We have a few team that want to wear training tops while on the bench and change just before they are subbed in.
Tom Wilde
Tom: Other than players on the field of play there is no rule addressing what can be worn or not worn while on the bench. While warming up to enter the game players are instructed to wear colors in contrast with both teams. Also, players wearing visible undergarments should be the same color as the outer garments and all players dressed alike. See Rule 4.
Team A has a sub who has checked in and is waiting at the midfield line to enter the game. The ball was played and missed be a player on the field so it is getting ready to roll out of bounds. Before the ball crosses the touch line the checked in sub touches the ball while still in play. Would the restart be a dropped ball or indirect free kick?
Malcolm: The player had checked in but had not yet been beckoned by the referee so therefore was an illegal player. By stepping in to play the ball the player was guilty of unsporting conduct and should be cautioned. See Rule
5.6.3 Caution any player, coach or other bench personnel for misconduct or unsporting behavior (persistent infringement on any of the rules of the game) and, if the behavior persists, eject that individual from the game. Play is restarted with an indirect free kick from the point of the infraction by the opposing team.
4.2.5 Players warming up outside the coaching and team areas shall wear colored jerseys/vests that distinguish them from all other field players.
4.2.5 as stated players shall wear ….when outside of the team area.
With many of the women teams players are standing up inside their respective team area, shall they also not be wearing different color shirts/vest? Should they also not be just hanging around the neck and should be properly worn?
Thank you, Klaus, for your question. Rule 4.2.5 is correct regarding players – male or female – wearing different colored vests/jerseys while warming up outside the coaching and team area. There are no rules with reference to what players, coaches or other bench personnel shall wear while on the bench or in the team area other that what is stated in Rule 4.1.1 As to the problem of players standing in the coaching and team area the only directive given is “Coaches, players and bench personnel shall remain inside their respective coaching and team areas” What is not spelled out – which may be of some help to you – is the “other causes” option which the referee has discretionary power to enact (apply?) whenever the unwritten issue occurs/exists and interferes with his/her ability to manage the game as required. In other words, you have the authority to tell them they must be seated and they must wear their warm-up vests as opposed to slinging them around their necks. .
What is the NCAA policy For post season competition use of artifical noisemakers. ? —- Does the 2016- 2017 NCAA rule 5.6.9 apply in post season play. are noisemakers legal in post season play ?
Dan: The playing rules for postseason are the same as the regular season including those exceptions pertaining to card accumulation, tiebreakers, etc. These are contained in the 2016-17 playing rules. There are some differences example – limits re #s of players dressed for play, countdown to kickoff and what signage is allowed at the playing site. However, the GSA is the NCAA perssonel assigned to the site who will articulate any variations that are set forth in the professional handbook.
Im not sure i understand, if its legal to do in season play, its legal in post season. I cant find a rule in the 16-17 rulebook on no use of noisemakers in post season play. am I correct? Thank You for your time.
The Championship Committees are expected to permit the use of artificial noisemakers as permitted by the rules.
this question is regarding KICKER violations for penalty kicks (during a game ) or kicks from the mark (post season)
Stutter stepping is permitted BUT NOT STOPPING. If the kicker Stops and then kicks the ball, is the ball considered “not properly put into play” hence a re-kick, per 14.3.3 since the stopping is PRIOR to the kick (Caution & re-kick)
the confusion arises as the Comparison Study Guide suggests that the Administration of the penalty kick is the same as FIFA, which would be IFK (no re-kick)
the chart continues to say infractions by the player taking the kick or attacking team “If ball goes directly out of play without being touched – goal kick. If ball rebounds into or out of play, an indirect free kick is awarded”
but does not say a re-kick is required for a goal scored (which is not the case in FIFA)
I’ve discussed with Don Dennison, he suggests you guys clarify.
hope for a quick response since post season is upon us
Gerry,
Please go to this post for the coordinated response to your question. Thank you.
Thanks, John, for putting this together.
Is a non powered cheer megaphone considered to be an artificial noisemaker?
No. A non powered cheer megaphone is legal.
Can a NJCAA Womens Goal Keeper use a “sticky substance” on their gloves to enhance tackiness? ie.. honey, or pinetar
No. Illegal.
Thanks Ken. Do you know where in the rule book it specifies this? I could only find it as being “unsportsman like” which can be a yellow card offense with the GK required to removed the gloves.
The use of an illegal substance on goalkeeper gloves is unsporting behavior in violation of R. 12.4.5. Remove the gloves from the game and issue a caution.
What should a referee do when a player purposefully removes their shinguards, throws them on the field, and continues to play during a game?
Send the player off the field. See Rule 4.5 Penalty for failure to conform to Rules 4.1-4.5 You might also caution or eject as appropriate for unsporting behavior.
The AR was aware of the incident and notified the referee and the referee allowed play to continue for an additional 5 minutes. Should the AR have stopped play and taken action when the incident occurred?
Yes. See Rule 6.1.5. and A.R.6.1.5.1. Note: The fact that 6.1.5. has a parenthetical statement (subject to the referee’s decision and supervision) does not alter the directive – outlining the AR’s duties – given to the AR in both 6.1.5 and A.R.6.1.5.1 Only the referee can stop play; the AR is to signal with the flag and/or use electronic communication if in use.
I’d like to build on Cliff’s response. Player safety is paramount. If the referee or the AR feel at any time a player’s safety is jeopardized, the game should be stopped and the unsafe situation should be rectified. Whereas the AR can not unilaterally stop the game, the AR should ensure the referee is aware of the situation. Part of the pre-game discussion between the R and his/her crew should include how to deal with situations that require the referee’s attention or where the referee may not be aware of the reason the AR is signaling.
What is the right response for referee if a manager or some other staff, enter the field while the ball is in play?
This is a caution.See R.1.12.3.
I’ve been contracted by Referee magazine to write a “primer” on the throw-in. It’s mostly written from the standpoint of FIFA but also has requirements, where they vary, from NFHS and NCAA.
A question I had is how NCAA treats two opponents playing the ball out-of-bounds (over the touchline) simultaneously. FIFA requires the referee to make a decision on direction — there is no dropped ball — and as I read the NISOA rules that appears to be the case for NCAA as well. (NFHS, of course, requires a “drop ball” five yards from the boundary line, subject to considerations for the goal area.)
Can you confirm or clarify the NCAA rule for me? Thank you!
Mark: The 2017-2017 NCAA Soccer Rules do not contain a rule or wording that fits the scenario you have described. When there is no specific rule addressing such an issue the interpretation then is provided by the Secretary-Rules Editor who, currently, is Ken Andres. In any case, should the matter arise – in keeping with the exact details you have listed – Rule 18 (common sense) applies resulting in a DROP BALL nearest the touchline where the ball went into touch.
Thank you, Cliff!
US Soccer recently put out a short video discussing handling. Should NISOA officials use the same criteria when enforcing handling in our games?
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsAXIYtop5OuwuRbZmHjRVBsDfvZIzkhC
Ryan: First,the 2016- 2017 NCAA Soccer Rules more than adequately define what handling is and what the referee should do about such occurrences..The video – and Esse Baharmast’s clinic – with examples of handling – is not only a training opportunity asking the candidates to determine which examples constitute hand ball violations, but an apparent continuing education session aimed at heightening the awareness to a more challenging rule. NISOA officials can benefit from viewing the session but there is nothing inherent in what Baharmast is proposing that suggests a different approach than what the rules state nor what NISOA requires its officials to do.
Can a player boost up a teammate during a corner kick where their team is on the offense (or on defense)?
No. Unsporting conduct!
A player is about to take a penalty kick. The referee asks the kicker if she is ready. She says yes. He turns to the keeper and asks if she is ready. She gives a thumbs up. As the referee was asking the keeper, the opposing player began her run up to the ball and strikes the ball simultaneously as the referee blows the whistle to begin, and scores. My question is…. shouldn’t all “action” including the run-up only begin AFTER the whistle sounds? I have read several rules defining penalty kick procedures and none of them discuss when to begin the run-up.
Jason: Kick is retaken AFTER the referee’s whistle. Rule 14:2
ifk is taken by team A, referee does not raise his hand to indicate IFK,
team A scores directly from kick, what is the restart
some people are looking at 13.1.2.d. and assuming its a goal, i think original IFK restart
The restart is a goal kick.
The referee is required to raise his/her hand for an indirect kick, however, neglecting to do that does not “change” the kick to direct. It is still an indirect kick which when kicked directly into the goal yields a GK restart.
todd, does this run counter to FIFA, which says since wrong signal was given, kick has to retaken, since ball went in net?
Brian – You are correct in that FIFA/ LOG and NCAA have different rulings. A change will be made in my Rules Comparison Guide when next revised.
so don, just to get it straight in my mind, ncaa is not adopting the FIFA/LOG ruling
Correct. The restart in this instance under the NCAA soccer rules is a goal kick.
What is the proper course of action in the following two scenarios: (1) The referee crew allows Player A to illegally reenter the game in the first half. Player A scores a goal and prior to the ensuing kickoff the referee crew realizes the illegal substitution; (2) The referee crew allows Player A to illegally reenter the game in the first half. Player A
scores a goal. After the match is complete with the final score of 1-0, prior to signing the scorebook, the referee crew realizes the illegal substitution.
An illegal substitution (a legal player who has entered the game illegally) is different from an illegal player (one who is not listed on the roster). An illegal player cannot score a goal, however, a legal player in the game illegally can score. If he/she does, it must be corrected before the restart. If not corrected before the kickoff, it should be reported, however, cannot be corrected.
Todd
The SFISOA Chapter is of the opinion that Question #39, in the NISOA 2017 Refresher Test, is “answered” incorrectly on the provided “answer sheet.” The question reads: “In the 30th minute and both teams playing with 11 players, substitute A12 is beckoned onto the field to replace A1. Before A1 leaves the field, he and A12 get into an argument about the substitution and commit violent conduct against each other. Team A should resume play with…;” and the “official” answer given is “C” (“9 players”).
However, the “Rule” references given do not support this answer. OUR reasoning is that when A12 was “beckoned, he became the player of record. A1, although not having left the field, is no longer a player of record. Whereas both players should be sent off for violent conduct, only ONE of the two was a player “of record;” consequently, play should be restarted with ten (10) players; NOT nine (9).
Please advise. Thanks.
As the rules test is still “live”, we will not post a response at this time but in the meanwhile, you should review this article from April 2017 on the subject.
Hi! I am asking a question in regards to the rules change, Rule 3.6.3.3. Wondering what, specifically, is the documentation required to be presented to the official? I am a college coach who has an individual that fits this bill and myself and our sports medicine staff have been looking for a form or explanation of what documentation is required for this evidence to be presented to the official.
Please advise…
Kate: Upon further review – and able assistance from one of three “Ask” responders – Dr. Abraham, the answer you are seeking is: “To be eligible for this medical re-entry exception, the team physician must confirm the medical condition, its potential for producing serious injury or death, and the need for the player to be exempt from Rule 3.6.1. If the condition is established by a duly licensed physician other than the team physician, documentation must be provided to, and approved by, the institution’s team physician. Prior to the start of any game, the primary athletics healthcare provider or designee (e.g., coach) shall present documentation to the game officials and opposing coach which establishes that the player has been granted a medical exception to the re-entry rule.” To be clear, up until the latest interpretation, medical documentation has not been required for nonconcussive injuries.
Just want to clarify that tape on socks with different color is allowed.
Louie: Subject to the referee’s approval tape on socks is permitted as long as the basic color/design does not violate the Rule 4 uniform requirements.
Is there a difference in DOGSO applications (when to apply red card or not) OUTSIDE the penalty area between NISOA and USSF/IFAB? For example rule 12.5.6 appears to be broad and under all associations. Is there a different definition in the NISOA as to what constitutes a DOGSO outside of the penalty area? Is there a link to the NISOA considerations?
NCAA and IFAB DOGSO interpretations are the same.
Here is a link to the NISOA Considerations.
Is the NCAA definition of “What constitutes a ball in play on a corner kick (free kick)” , exactly the same as the NFHS’ definition (18-1n).
Specifically, (Advice to Referees Law 13), “When…the referee must ensure that the ball is indeed kicked, (touched with foot in a kicking motion), and moved….Simply tapping the top of the ball with the foot or stepping on the ball are not sufficient”?
The NCAA changed the rule this year (see the article on NISOA.com – http://nisoa.com/2017/03/18/2017-ncaa-soccer-rules-changes/). this applies to corner kicks as well.
Kickoffs and restarts (Rule 8.2/13.2)
The ball may now be kicked in any direction (previously, it had to be kicked forward) on a kickoff. Additionally, the ball must now visibly move (previously, just had to be touched) to be put in play.
I checked the uniform rules and it did not specifically say anything about this, but I have currently been approved eligibility to play soccer this fall at my college and I was wondering if wearing two completely different cleats is legal? Some players wear the same brand of cleats with different colors, but I wear two totally different brands. Just want to know before I begin training.
Steven: Can you clarify what you mean by two different cleats? Are you talking about different cleats on each shoe? Feel free to email if you wish.
Yes, I wear two different cleats on each foot. I know some professionals do it, but I do not know if the NCAA requires cleats to match or not.
Steven: As long as the cleats are uniform subject to the approval of the referee there is nothing in the rule prohibiting different colored cleats. Rule 4.4: Shoes shall be worn by all participants in a game. Shoes with soles containing aluminum, leather, rubber, nylon or plastic cleats, studs or bars, whether molded as part of the sole or detachable, are allowed as long as the referee does not consider them dangerous.
can a subs take a p.k.?
NO! See Rule 14.2.
Thank you so much Ken for allowing us to ask you questions and then for your fast response. NCAA 2016- 2017 Mens and Womens Soccer Rule ( 5.6.9b ) i was told today by field manager at a Pacwest womens soccer game that the Pacwest does not allow any noisemakers i had a small 4inch brass bell with handle and 4inch cowbell with handle and a non amplified cheerleader cone about 24inches long. that these things can not be used could not be used at Pacwest soccer games.I asked you this question last year for use at a NAIA match and was told it was legal have the rules changed?are do pac west not go under current NCAA soccer rules. all i could find in 5.6.9 not allowed was Whistles,airhorns,electronic amplifiers. this makes sense as these items could cause confusion on the field for refs and players. sorry i was so long.
Conference may implement stricter guidelines regarding noisemakers than the NCAA rules stipulate
Are there any rules regarding the amount of warm up time that must be provided to a team prior to the start of a match? For example: a team is held up in traffic and arrives to the venue late for a start time.
The NCAA rules do not have a pre-set time for warm-ups when teams are late. Typically, the coaches agree on a reasonable warm up. If there is a significant disagreement, player safety should be paramount and the referee should ensure the team who arrived late has adequate time so that player safety is not compromised.
Thank you Todd.
From the FAQ email that Ken Andres sent out….
“How does the unsportsmanlike acts rule apply?
Offenses for which an indirect free kick shall be awarded are: Unsporting behavior, including inappropriate language. (Rule 12.2.8)
Any player, coach, team representative or participant listed on the official roster shall be cautioned a maximum of one yellow card per game for committing any of the following offenses: Engaging in other acts of unsporting behavior, including taunting, celebration, simulating a foul, exaggerating an injury, baiting, substituting illegally or ridiculing another player, bench personnel, officials or spectators. (Rule 12.4.5)”
*QUESTION IS: if a player simulates and is cautioned, he/she can then taunt, celebrate, exaggerate an injury, bait, illegally substitute or ridicule another participant with no further sanction?*
The second incident of misconduct results in a red card per rule 12.5.8
Are there any rules against jersey swapping midgame, including half time?
Players can wear a different jersey at any time as long as the referee is notified and the changes are made on the roster to reflect the correct number
When do players become players of record at the start of a game? Specifically, if a player is announced as starting the game (and walks onto the field during the national anthem) but is replaced by a teammate before the whistle to start the match, is the player who was announced eligible to enter the game during the first half?
Players become a player of record at the beginning of the game at the kickoff. NCAA rules do not require starters to be indicated prior to the kickoff. A team can determine its starting line up anytime prior to the kickoff itself. The same is true for the beginning of the second half or any overtime period.
How does the post season yellow card accumulation rule pertain to a player who has previously sat for card accumulations. Specifically a player who has 7 yellows entering post season play who has sat after five, but not reached his 8th to incur his second suspension. Or a player who has 9 and has sat out both of his suspensions for 5 and 8?
Thanks!
The postseason card accumulation is based on Rule 12.8.2
“Postseason Games. Caution accumulation will carry over into postseason play, which includes conference tournaments and the NCAA tournament. Players or coaches participating in postseason play will receive a one-game suspension when a total of eight cautions have been accumulated. Further, each two additional cautions shall result in additional one-game suspensions. Moreover, if the total is reached in the final postseason game of the season, the player(s), coach(es) or bench personnel shall not participate in the first scheduled game(s) of the next season.”
Therefore, the suspension will occur when the player’s total reaches 8, 10, 12 accumulated cautions. Specifically, If a player has 7 cautions entering the postseason, he would be suspended when he received his next caution – his 8th for the year. The same is true for the player who enters the postseason with 9 and receives her 10th.
Note that the threshold for the first suspension increases from 5 to 8 entering the postseason so a player who received 4 cautions during the regular season would be suspended when he reaches 8 accumulated cautions (not 5) in the postseason per A.R. 12.8.2.a. “A player finishes the regular season with a total of four cautions and proceeds to receive a caution in the first postseason game. RULING: The player now has an accumulation of five cards toward eight allowable cautions since the accumulation system allows eight for the postseason.”
What is the proper restart in the following case: Team A has possession of the ball and approaches Team B. Referee stops play with whistle, Team A is awarded is direct free kick. Coach of Team A protests that the foul warranted a caution. The referee issues a caution (yellow card) to the Coach of Team A for dissent. How is play restarted?
Play is stopped for the direct free kick offense, so it must be restarted with a direct free kick for Team A. The caution is issued with the ball out of play so the restart is not affected. This would be true for any situation where the misconduct happens when the ball is out of play such as a throw-in, kick-off, indirect free kick, corner kick or goal kick.
Is there any liability for the referee crew if a ball person is injured. Specifically a young ball person, that is selected by the host institution, that may or may not be over age 10. Rule 6.5 “recommends” that ball chasers are at least 10 years old.
What should the referee crew do if they do not feel the ball chasers provided can safely perform their duties?
Safety is always paramount for all participants. During the pre-game, If the referee crew feels that the ball person cannot perform the duties required, the referee crew should note their concern to the host institution’s event management and leave the responsibility with them. During the match itself, if the ball person is not performing his/her duties, the ball person should be replaced.
In DI Men’s soccer what is the penalty for receiving a fifth (5) Yellow Card
per the NCAA rules:
12.8.1 Regular-Season Games. Any player(s) or coach(es) who has received a total of five cautions in one season shall be suspended and shall not participate in the next regularly scheduled game, including postseason games. Three additional cautions shall result in additional one-game suspensions. Each two additional cautions shall result in additional one-game suspensions. If the total is reached in the final game of the season, the player(s), coach(es) and/or bench personnel shall not participate in the first postseason game and/or the first regularly scheduled game of the next season if his/her team does not participate in postseason play.
Scrimmages and exhibition games (including alumni games), scheduled or unscheduled, do not qualify as games with reference to players suspended for accumulated cautions. Moreover, if the next regularly scheduled game is not played for any reason (and is later declared a forfeited game), the forfeited game shall not satisfy the game requirements for suspended players or coaches.
If the total is reached in the final postseason game of the season, the players shall not compete in the first game of the next season. Suspended players or coaches shall serve their game suspensions in an actual contest.
A foul that requires a yellow card has been committed by the defensive team during the course of play, but the head referee signals play on, due to an advantage call. When the play is over via change of possession or out of bounds or goal scored, can the referee go back and administer a yellow card to a player for the infraction that took place when he allowed the play to continue?
Yes, the referee can (and should) issue the yellow card. It must be issued before the next restart when there is a stoppage for a free kick or throw-in, no matter what the advantage seems to be at that point for a quick restart, the referee must issue the yellow card at that point. Once the restart has occurred, it is too late to come back for previous cautionable offenses.
By rule (this would be for High School Soccer) do the players have to be on the opposite side of the field from the spectators?
There is no provision in the NFHS rules that require spectators be on the opposite side from the teams. Rule 1 Section 5 has a provision for teams being on the opposite side of the field and 1-6 only requires that the spectators be at least 10 feet from the touchlines, team/official area and goal line with no one being permitted directly behind the goal unless in bleachers. With this said, individual state associations may have additional requirements so please check with your state association as well
In NFHS rules if there’s a PK that occurs once time has expired and the kicker, in an attempt to deceive the keeper, plays the ball forward and a teammate runs on to it and scores, the goal would be disallowed because 14.1.6 states that only the kicker may play the ball in such a scenario. However, what would be the correct restart? Would the team be allowed a rekick or would time expire?
In the scenario you describe, the kick ends when the teammate plays the ball. The game is extended solely for the taking of the kick and nothing else. Since the kick ends when the teammate plays the ball there is no restart – the game is over. Playing the ball forward to a teammate is allowed (Rule 14.5) so this is not trickery and is not a consideration in this scenario.
When the home team chooses a ball holder, is that person allowed to coach from the side lines or is he/she to remain neutral?
thank you.
No – the ball persons are considered “additional officials” as per Rule 6.5 (Each ball person’s duty is to assist in ball retrieval to avoid delay. All ball persons shall be instructed by and are under the direct supervision of the game officials) and as such are required to remain neutral, provide the ball to either team in the same timely fashion and do no coaching
Based on the play of the 2018 World Cup will there be any advice to NISOA officials relative to the holding, grabbing, pushes in the back on headers, excessive charging, and fouls in the PB on set plays and more. It is understood that these were top professional games with top FIFA officials, but what will flow down from those games to the college
coaches, and players. Will the college coache, and players expect the same? Thanks for your input and help.
Thanks for your question. NISOA has always expected that the illegal holding, grabbing and pushes in the back will be called in the intercollegiate game particularly when these fouls impact the ability of an offensive player to make a play on the ball. There is no change in the advice to our membership in administering the rules regarding foul play in the penalty area. Many of the plays you reference would have been called as fouls in the past and should continue to be called as such. The World Cup has brought heightened awareness to this issue which should only help our officials make the correct decisions on these penalty area incidents.
I noted that among the NCAA rules changes for 2018-19 is the updated provision eliminating the possibility of an “own goal” being scored directly from the kickoff. However, despite several reviews, I could not find a specific decision regarding a ball going into goal directly from a drop ball. Maybe I just didn’t look hard enough, but would appreciate a citation of the NCAA rule regarding this very distinct possibility (if it can happen, it will eventually) or an official interpretation/clarification, as well as a comparison to the USSF Laws and NHFS provisions. Thank you very much.
Steve,
Thanks for your question. It is a point not directly covered currently in the NCAA rules so we have requested a formal ruling from the NCAA rules committee and will post it as soon as we get a reply. Sorry for the delay and thanks again for raising the issue.
Todd
Steve,
I have confirmed with the NCAA SRE that an “own goal” cannot be scored from any restart – kickoff, GK, cornerkick, dropped ball, throw-in, PK.
Todd
Additionally – to answer the question before it is asked – as part of the discussion with the NCAA SRE, a goal cannot be scored directly from a dropped ball – it must touch a second player (note that it may be played a second time by the same player, but that doesn’t allow for a goal to be scored) for a goal to be scored. This fully aligns with the NCAA rules and IFAB Laws regarding scoring from dropped balls
Is there any guidance regarding the use of hydration breaks during a game?
Player safety is always paramount. The guidance to referees is that hydration breaks should be allowed whenever the referee believes it is necessary for player safety. In extremely hot and humid situations they should be at a minimum of once per half, but maybe more frequent if needed. Referees should consult with the medical / training staff to get their perspective on the need as well. In any case, err on the side of player safety. Hydration breaks should occur at a natural stoppage of play, when doing so does not give either team an advantage (so typically on a restart in the defensive third of the field).
Two things:
1. On the 2018 National Referee Exam, there was a question about pregame warmup areas. I could not find a reference to the pregame areas in the Rules Book. Can you help?
2. The Rules book still uses the words “intent” and “intentional”. I thought we had agreed that “deliberate was a better choice. Right?
Thnx.
The warm up area is specified at the end of Rule 6 – Timing Sheets that specifies:
60:00 Teams may begin warm-up on the field in front of their bench.
A.R. 3.7.1d………..Are we to assume A12 entered the field illegally ? There is no mention of being beckoned on to the field, nor is there a reference that the clock was stopped in the last five minutes of the game. If A12 is a ” legal ” substitute, than A8 would be a bench player, and therefore the team would not play short.
Please clarify
This is an Approved Ruling in the NCAA Rules book and, as such, is not intended to be a “quiz or trick question”, but rather to clarify situations in the NCAA Rules, so the assumption is that the player entered legally.
The intent of this A.R. is to clarify that during a substitution all the players on the field during the process are considered “players” for the sake of misconduct and whether a team plays short. The rationale for this stems from both the timing rules and substitution protocols unique to the collegiate game. Since the clock is kept on the scoreboard and does not stop for substitutions (except during the last 5 minutes by the team leading at the time), the NCAA wants substitutions to occur as quickly as possible, hence, there is NO requirement for the player to leave the field before the substitute enters (as a matter of referee mechanics, the referee crew should encourage minimizing any time required to execute the substitution and stop the clock if they feel time is being wasted during substitutions. Additionally, there is NO requirement in the NCAA Rules for the substitute to identify who is leaving when he enters. We have all experienced many times a player running onto the field and the coach yells, “Don’t take out Jordan, take out Sam instead” which is perfectly legal. Therefore, all 12 people legally on the field during a substitution are considered “players” when deciding if the team plays short.
This IS a Rules / Law difference with IFAB.
If a player leaves the field to change his boots, when is that player allowed to re-enter the game – on the fly after the referee gives permission or at the next stoppage?
At the next stoppage when beckoned by the referee. A.R. 3.5.8.a.
While challenging for the ball an offensive and defensive player go off the field together. The ball remains in bounds and in the penalty area. While off the field the defensive player punches the offensive player. What is the correct restart and location? What rule addresses this situation? What if the offensive player commits the offense?
Thanks
The fouls are penalized as if there are on the field at that point, therefore, the defensive player who punches an opponent off the field should be ejected for fighting (following up with the proper notifications- player, coaches and scorekeeper and reporting (NCAA or NAIA red card reporting system) ) and the restart is a penalty kick. If the offensive player commits that same infraction, the ejection and reporting are the same. The restart is a direct free kick for the defenders from just inside the end line (unless it is in the goal area in which case the restart would be at the 6 yard mark)
Rule 3.6.3.2 in regards to a bleeding player says (paraphrase) ‘Players with a bleeding injury…must be removed…and may renter … at any stoppage’. The referee will stop play to remove the player from the field. If the bleeding can be administered to e.g. bleeding stopped, wrapped and become legal to renter; can that player reenter the game in the current stoppage without the restart of play?
Thanks
This is an area of referee judgement. If the referee notices blood on the player and sends the player off the field and the fix is as simple as placing a band-aid over a cut, yes the player may reenter immediately, however, the restart should not be delayed at all to allow for the player to be treated. it is therefore, highly unlikely the treatment will occur quickly enough for the player to reenter before the restart.
If he / she is treated on the field, then that player must leave and reenter after the restart. The reentry is the next stoppage (i.e, the player does NOT have to wait for a substitution opportunity).
Red #9, a substitute located off the field of play, throws an object that strikes the head of Blue #3, a player from the opposing team located on the field of play. Red #9, being a team representative, is ejected for fighting (12.7.4.9). What is the restart according to the NCAA Soccer Rules?
The key is, this is a substitute committing the offense.
If the two are considered “opponents”, then surely 12.1.3 takes precedence and the restart is a direct free-kick or penalty kick.
However, if a substitute and a player from the opposing team are not by definition “opponents” then 12.2.8 would apply and the restart would be an indirect free-kick.
If 12.2.8 applies, is the restart from the point of contact, or the position of the ball when play was stopped?
The larger issue is: IFAB clearly defines the offenses that can be committed by certain individuals, whereas the NCAA Soccer Rules do not. In fact, substitutes are not even specifically mentioned as individuals who can commit a cautionable or ejectable offense in rule 12. As they are participants listed on the game roster, they can be cautioned, but only if one considers them “team representatives” can they be ejected.
The restart is an indirect free kick from the place the ball was when the play was stopped. As you have reasoned, 12.2.8 applies. The game is stopped for misconduct (in this case fighting, which requires Red #9 be ejected, the substitute, coach and scorekeeper be notified that the ejection is for fighting and a report is completed on-line indicating Red #9 was ejected for fighting). The restart after the game is stopped to deal with misconduct is an indirect free kick from the spot the ball is at the time, if the ball was in play.
If the ball was not in play, the restart is whatever restart was going to be when the ball went out of play before the misconduct.
Got this one from a coach I ran into recently…’Can a player wear an Apple Watch in a game?”
4.2.6 states players can wear a device for the purpose of monitoring/accumulating data, during the game.
AR 4.3.a May a player wear [types of jewelry], watches, etc? No.
So should this be wearable technology that is under the uniform? Or is the Apple Watch and like devices that accumulate data allowable?
No – all monitoring devices must be worn under their garments and can not be dangerous to the play nor opponents. An Apple watch is not allowed under 4.2.6
What is NCAA and NJCAA policies on drones flying over games?
No – drones are not permitted to fly over games – see AR1.12.4.c.
Regarding Substitutions
A player(s) is substituted for a caution, equipment or injury. If the opposing team wants to substitute an equal number, must the opposing player(s) be checked in prior to the stoppage?
No the player does not have to be checked in prior to the stoppage, but must be ready to enter in a timely manner
I am the clinician for TISOA (Pittsburgh) and recently had an official ask me a question about a coach being ejected. We have several Division 3 schools in our area where the same person coaches the women and men. The question is: if a coach is ejected in the first match of a women’s / men’s double header, are the eligible to coach in the 2nd match of the day?
Yes, the coach is eligible. The suspension for the coach is team specific.
Thanks
twice last season at away games a powered amplifier was used to cheer on the home team by spectators in the stands and on the sidelines at CALPAC conference games. I was told by both the home team schools that powered amplifiers were legal to use as there had been a rules change. I don’t know if that is true or that they just did not won’t to enforce the rules. I was unable to find that rule change can you help me ?
In the 2019 / 2020 NCAA Rules book identified a change to Rule 5.6.9.1 and .2 which now permits bands, musical instruments and artificial noisemakers at anytime, however, amplified music is still only allowed during the pregame, period intervals and when the clock is stopped and the ball is not in play. The exact question you ask is addressed in A.R. 5.6.9.a. The amplifiers you indicated are limited to those specific instances.
Thank you Mr. Abraham -,they agreed that music from an amplified device could not be played during the game but wanted to see were it did not allow spectators to use a hand held power megaphone to cheer their team.Is there any specific rule that states the use of a powered hand held megaphone from being used by a spectator at any time during the game.i can’t find that specific of a rule.Thank You for your time.
Electronic amplifiers are not permitted at any time. See R. 5.6.9.
PK table on page 82 says that illegal feinting by kicker results in an IFK, and warn/caution kicker as appropriate. Does “illegal feinting” include stopping? If so, this seems to conflict with Rule 14.3.3, which says that “On a penalty kick, for any infringement by the player taking the kick committed before the ball is in play, the player shall be cautioned or ejected as appropriate, and the kick taken.” When would this offense simply require a warning, and if the kick is not taken, is the restart a retake or an IFK for the defending team?
Michael; Rule 14.2.4The player taking the penalty kick is permitted to use a stutter step or a hesitation move provided there is no stopping and there is continuous movement toward the ball.
Key word is “stop” Stutter step is allowed but progression to ball must be continuous. IFK for defending team.
Thanks, Cliff! However, when would illegal feinting result in just a warning (PK table on page 82) vice a caution/ejection (Rule 14.3.3)? And, Rule 14.3.3 says that the kick is “taken” if the infringement occurs before the ball is in play and after the card is shown. Since “stopping” occurs before the ball is in play, does this mean it’s NOT an IFK for the other team, but still a PK?
Michael: Your question is a good one and highlights the fact that a specific A.R. AND entry in the chart should definitely include a specific penalty for the “stop’; however, the 2020-21 book is already published which means the change will not appear until 2022-23. Meanwhile, any vagaries not ‘covered’ in the printed rules are to be interpreted by the SRE (currently Ken Andres) are subject to his/her interpretation. His judgement: “It is an infraction the restart for which is IFK for the defending team!”
Hope this helps.
In regards to video review:
Can it only be used to asses the issuing of a red card in regards to 5.7.3.4?
For example violent behavior is missed on the field during the run of play, in the pentalty area by the defending team. At the next stoppage video review is used to deterimine that violent behavior occured. The correct restart would be the current stoppage (goal kick, throw in, etc.) and not a penalty kick?
Hi Cory,
That is correct – video review may only be used in the situation you described to deal with the misconduct, not the foul itself. The restart must be based on the current stoppage – if the ball was out of play, then the restart is based on why it is out of play (GK, foul, etc.). If the ball was in play – for example, a player is bleeding, but no one on the referee crew saw the incident – then the restart is a dropped ball even if video review reveals a foul.
Thanks!
Todd
At the taking of a defensive free kick in the penalty area, the kicker kicks the ball and it strikes the referee. The ball rebounds back to the kicker, who plays it again to prevent an opponent from gaining possession. Would you call double-touch violation, or restart with a drop ball because possession would have changed?
I appreciate preparing for all eventualities, but given the problem this would present, I respectfully suggest that you don’t put yourself in that position. Respectfully, I would expect intercollegiate referees to have the field awareness and physical capability to not be caught in this situation on a dead ball restart.
Todd, apparently we think alike. I suggested something less diplomatic when asked the question. After further reading, 12.3.3 appears to cover the situation. Regards, Jim
Just a Question by one of the Members can electronic whistle be use for collage this year.
5.3 Equipment
Referees shall use equipment that is reasonable and necessary to officiate the game!
A.R. 5.3. May referees use electronic aids or field-marking sprays? RULING: Yes
A.R. 12.7.4.5.b. says a defender may not be carded for touching the ball a second time on a restart in their own penalty area, even if this creates DOGSO (and, presumably, SPA). This seemingly contradicts para 12.3.3, which specifically calls for a card to the keeper for the same offense, even if using the hand. What should be the correct ruling?
It’s not clear that only players may commit offenses that result in DFKs. IFAB now lists situations where certain offenses by coaches, subs, etc. may result in a DFK. Please confirm NCAA has not adopted this IFAB ruling.
What is the rule on player having jewelry on during match? I saw a match that the referee forced the player off and insisted to the coach that the player needed to be substituted out. Is this the correct procedure?
4.3 Jewelry
A player shall not wear jewelry of any type whatsoever. Exception: Medical alert bracelets or necklaces may be worn but must be taped to the body. PENALTY—The referee stops the clock and the player shall leave the field of
play. Once the player has complied, the player or a substitute may re-enter according to the conditions set forth in Rule 3.5. (which means not during the run of play)
3.5 When Allowed – Substitutes may enter the game under the following conditions:
3.5.1 On a goal kick;
3.5.2 On a team’s own throw-in;
Note: If the team in possession chooses to substitute, providing the requisites of Rule 3.7
are met, the opposing team also may substitute up to 11 players at that time.
3.5.3 On a team’s own corner kick;
Note: If the team in possession chooses to substitute, providing the requisites of Rule 3.7
are met, the opposing team also may substitute up to 11 players at that time.
3.5.4 After a goal has been scored;
3.5.5 Between periods;
3.5.6 When a player has been cautioned;