Question Number: 19133

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 5/18/2008

RE: Varsity High School

Jeff Goldstein of Monticello, NY USA asks...

Coach Juan Carlos Osorio (NY Red Bulls coach) was ejected with six minutes remaining. "I was issued a red card", Osorio said after the match.

I was under the impression that only players, substitutes or substitute players may be shown the red or yellow card as per Law 12. Refs in High School and our travel league often card coaches. I always thought they were incorrect. I thought a coach could be ejected but should not be shown a card. Please explain the above quote or clarify the Law for me. I am confused.
Thanks, Jeff

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

We're listening to coaches for accuracy now? They're only just one step above announcers for reliability. The coach was probably using the common expression for being dismissed.

You are correct, the Laws of the Game state that only players and substitutes may be shown cards. NHFS makes up their own rules, so that does not apply to them. And some youth leagues have made local rule modifications to allow showing cards to coaches. While not a FIFA-approved modification, if you accept games in those leagues, you shall abide by their rules.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

What he didn't say is that he probably earned everything he got and he probably pushed the referee into doing it by his continual irresponsible behavior. This year referees at the level of play you ask about have been asked to ensure coaches do as the Laws requires when coaches refuse to conform on their own. This is being done and sooner or later coaches will begin to act responsibly or their owners will search for a new coach that will be able to occupy the technical area during complete matches.

What coach meant to say was he was expelled from the technical area six minutes from time. He would have been correct had he said that...

Regards,