Question Number: 18729

Mechanics 4/8/2008

RE: Youth Under 13

mike of boston, ma suffolk asks...

I would like to know if the ARs have to run right to left. I understand that this is common place but I was not able to find it in the rules. If I as the referee prefer to run a different diagonal and ask the ARs to run left to right is that acceptable. I was shown up the other day and would like to know the correct answer.

I have attempted to search the site, but have had no luck finding the answer. Thank you for your help.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Although most of us use a left diagonal, a right diagonal is acceptable. You simply move the ARs across the field. I'm not sure I understand what you mean by "right to left". The AR runs up and down the touch line from the center line to the goal line. The AR is positioned opposite whatever diagonal the center is running

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

A good reason to run a reverse diagonal is when everyone else has run the normal diagonal, and the AR's paths are worn into muddy ruts. Give your assistants a break and let them run on good grass.

Now, to be able to do this effectively when required, you have to practice it from time to time. Pick a game that likely won't give you much trouble - maybe a lower level game, or a game where you have absolute trust in your AR's to cover any mistakes you might make. It is a different mindset. I find myself drifting over toward my normal diagonal, and realize I'm only 20 yards from my AR. Or I'm sure that guy was offside, so I look to the right to see my AR's flag to confirm, and wonder where in the world he is - and then I turn to my left and see him grinning at me. You need to do a little preparation when you can, so you can run a reverse when you must.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

I'm totally weird in that I alternate my diagonal from left backs to right backs every match. I was once forced by conditions to run what has become to be known as the "alternate diagonal" and was disappointed in my performance. I felt conditioning myself to do equally well in either situation made me a better match official. I also taught myself to fly a helicopter with my left hand controlling the pitch and roll axis because I thought this would aid in my survival should my right arm become incompacitated.

It isn't easy being weird...

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Either diagonal is "ok". I have used both as sometimes the field condition may favor the "unusual" one.