Question Number: 20149

Character, Attitude and Control 10/4/2008

RE: rec Under 8

Wendi Russell of sherman, texas usa asks...

If 2 boys from both teams are pushing each other (and I mean pushing very hard) and I can't determine who started the pushing. I stop the game and talk to the boys and tell them to stop. Do I restart with a drop ball?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Yes, a dropped ball.

And I presume you will be watching these players very closely for the remainder of the game to keep them in line.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

At this age group you should get the coaches involved so everyone realises this behavior will not be tolerated. Since you have stopped play but cannot decide whom to call a foul on, you must restart play with a dropped ball

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

If they are simultaneous fouls between opponents a drop ball is the correct restart. .
Try to talk as they play if not stopping for an actual foul. Stop that NOW! Get in their face a bit to separate and get then away and on the move. Reiterate the point at the next stoppage if possible. Stopping play to talk is something that should be avoided at the older ag groups unless absolutely necessary for match control. Th coaces should be assisting you in that reguard as well at age 6 and 7. If you feel it so necessary to stop to talk at the older age groups you could also consider carding their misconduct as cautionable USB or even send off for VC. Wee ones a stern look does wonders.
Cheers