Question Number: 14442

Law 18 - Common Sense 11/15/2006

RE: REC Under 10

Deborah S. Worsley of BROOKSVILLE , Fla. USA asks...

I have a nine year old who is asthmatic, yet loves the sport and has played for three years. My question is : When the game is stopped for a medical emergency such as she is starting to have trouble breathing,is the team allowed to make a substitution for pulling her off the field? Is this considered an injury?
I cannot find any rules on pre-existing medical conditions, do you have a website for these?
Thank-you
Deb

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Deborah your child can receive treatment at any time needed, if there is an "injury". The Laws of the Game used to reflect any player able to go to the touchline for treatment should do so!

Law V - The Referee used to say this: "He shall (g) stop the game if in his opinion, a player has been seriously injured, have the player removed as soon as possible from the field of play, and immediately resume the game. If a player is slightly injured, the game shall not be stopped until the ball has ceased to be in play. A player who is able to go to the touch- or goal-line for attention of any kind, shall not be treated on the field of play."

So, historically, rather than lying down in a lump and waiting for someone to recognize, then investigate, then take appropriate action the player just went to a field boundary and stepped off for treatment. Permission was required to return, of course. How many referees these days understand the history of The Game well enough to allow this something I can't answer. I know I would have absolutely no problem allowing your child leaving the field, even during play, to seek medical attention.

Nowadays USYSA allows both teams to substitute when there's an injured player. To me a player having difficulty breathing is significant and I'll take immediate action if that player can not reach a field boundary unassisted.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

I would also add that you should talk with the referee prior to the game about this. A lot of referees will give permission for asthmatic player to leave field if asthma acts up. It is good that the referee is aware of this potential hazard.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

I agree whole heartedly with my colleagues a referee who is informed should have no issues with allowing the player to leave if required during play for treatment. The same for diabeties as well as knowledge siomeone could be affected helps correct the problem quickly if it should develope into something serious! safety first we will always work to accomadate the fun for all who participate!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

AT this age group one of the first questions I ask the players is "does anyone have asthma?" I then tell them if they are having trouble breathing to get to their inhaler asap. I know they technically need my permission but I give it before the game. I try to talk to the parent and tell them also.