Question Number: 15055

Law 1- The Field 3/28/2007

RE: Rec Adult

patrick dinneen of Galway, Galway Ireland asks...

Near the corner flag, on the outside of a football pitch there is a white marking about a foot long (it's on both the sideline and the 'end line'.
I'm not talking about the circular arc. It can be seen on professional pitches more than amture pitches. Does anyone know what these are for?

Answer provided by Referee Mike Gartenhaus

I believe you are talking about the lines that are about 10 yards from the corner. These are used by the players and referees to assist in judging the 10 yards the defense must retire on corner kicks.
Thank you for writing.

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Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

These are called the "optional mark" because ... well, they're optional. Ref Gartenhaus has explained their purpose.

It's interesting that the text of Law 1 does not describe this mark. It is only on the diagrams of the field. Also, there is no provision for a mark along the sideline, only the endline.

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Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

They ensure that the opponents are 10 yards from the arc on a corner kick. They are optional, but do help make referees job easier.

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Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

This mark is 10 yards from the corner arc and establishes a point where defenders must stop when defending a corner kick. It serves the same purpose as the centre circle and penalty arc.

Regards,

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