Question Number: 15112

Mechanics 4/3/2007

RE: High School

Jon Way of San Rafael, ca usa asks...

what does it mean when AR holds flag between his legs?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

I don't know if it's an internationally accepted signal, but per the USSF, that's the signal the AR uses to tell the referee that the foul (which the referee just called) occurred inside the penalty area.

I've heard it taught that to remember this signal, you're "peeing on the flag", "pee" = "P" = "penalty kick".

Of course absolutely none of this may apply at all, since you're asking about US High School, presumably NFHS rules. They've invented all kinds of signals, maybe this is one of them. In which case one of our refs who also does HS will have to answer.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

NFHS rules do not address a signal of this nature. They also do not address a signal to indicate "In the penalty area" so the fall back is US Soccer's between the legs signal. This is allowable under Rule 5.3.2.g.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

Generally he is telling the referee that he thinks the infringement that the referee called from far out of position was inside the penalty area. Or he could just be unsure which way he is about to run and has the flag in a neutral position so it is more easily and quickly switched from one hand to another.

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

That the foul occurred inside the penalty area.