Question Number: 12740

Law 1- The Field 5/6/2006

RE: Adult

Richard James Douglas Bloom of Orangeville, Ontario Canada asks...

What is the D for on the 18yd box. What are its origins?

Thanks

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Ref Fleischer probably knows the origins but the penalty arc, which is what it's called, is exactly 10 yards from the penalty mark, the point at which penalty kicks take place. So, since players are required to be at least 10 yards from the mark when the kick is taken, they may line up anywhere on the penalty arc and be the required 10 yards away.

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Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Richard,
as far as I know the penalty ARC or the D as you say is only there to ensure a ten yard distance is maintained on PKS. It serves no other function now or before that I am aware of? Cheers

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Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

The penalty arc was added in 1937 after suggestions from various European Football Associations. It is the only part of the football pitch markings not 'Made in Britain.'

Regards,

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