Question Number: 20424

Mechanics 11/1/2008

RE: Rec Under 19

George of Delta, B.C. Canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 20254

Which quadrent do you want the CR to stand with assistants on a Kick-Off. I have been instucted to be in the offensive side left ready to run forward after the play,with first making sure the ball goes forward and is not touched twice by the player taking the center. Another Assesor recommended being in the defensive left side so there is less chance of getting hit with the ball. Is there a recommended proper position? i want to teach the younger referees good habits as I am the head Referee in our District.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

I generally stand to my left of the ball (assuming I'm running a left diagonal), and slightly in the kicking half of the field. That way I can see most of the players who might be partaking in play in the near term, and I can see that players remain on their own side of the field until the ball is kicked.

The USSF publication Guide to Procedures says the referee "Reads the players' positioning to determine exactly where to stand, starts watch and signals for the kick-off to be taken"

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

I usually stay to my left of the ball about 5 yards into the attacking half. That way I can see if the ball is kicked forwards and I anticipate the ball moving toward where I am standing