Question Number: 14932

Mechanics 3/4/2007

RE: AYSO National Referee Under 19

Paul Levey of Laguna Niguel, ca usa asks...

I'm trying to locate the new rules regarding where the Referee stands during a corner kick? I've heard that the new preferred position is at the left corner arc and the penalty area.

Just trying to find confirmation of this.

Thank you // Paul

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Paul,
Rule? Perhaps rule of thumb?
There are preferred positions based on the tactical nature of a match but no rules that say you must be anywhere but where you can see the best and anticipate the most. Corner kicks from the AR side you position differently than a corner from your side as referee but you also respond to what the players are doing and where they position themselves. If a team likes to flood the top of the 18 and then make runs to far and near post you find a position that gives you a view of the run up. If they are more static in around the keeper you can drop to the side to look in for the holding and grabbing likely to occur .
Do not get caught in traffic!
Set up for a good view top left arc but rotate as far as you need to as the players will watch to see if you are static.
MOVE as the ball moves to swing in for the ancipated play!
Block the play in between you and you near AR.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Another consideration is to vary your position so the players can't set up based on where you were. This prevents using you as an impediment or getting a free shot at an opponent because your vision is blocked by others. Also, don't stop moving, for the same reasons.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Debbie Hoelscher

Ummm....there aren't really "rules" for positions for the referee. There are implied best practises and you can find them in Advice to Referees, Position Papers, blogs, and places on the web such as this site.

Vary your position. Maybe make your first choice the USSF suggested position of the far side (furthest from your AR) of the "D" (near the intersection of the penalty arc and the penalty area.) But is that position doesn't allow you a good look into where the players are, then move to a position that does. Ultimately, your goal is to be able to see them and catch any potential problems. You can't do this in any one position because soccer is a fluid and changing. Adjustments always need to be made (including moving whilst the ball is mid-air from the corner kick because the players moved too!)

Just thoughts to think!