Question Number: 20841

League Specific 2/12/2009

RE: AYSO Under 13

jim cole of ventura, ca ventura asks...

I understand that spectators are prohibited from standing behind the goal lines during a game. Is there also a limit on how far the spectator can stand from the midline, ie as far as the top of the penalty arch? Thanks for your help. Jim

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

These would be league or local site rules. You would have to check with them.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

I have found in talking with referees over the years that in most localities no one is permitted to sit from the top of the penalty area to the goal line or behind the goal line. The exception is for photographers

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

In the US high school rules spectators on the goal line are prohibited unless in bleachers. The Laws of the Game offer no restrictions although there used to be a photographers line depicted in Law 1. This line was from 2m behind each corner flag post to a point 3.5m behind the intersection of the goal area perpendicular thence to a point 6m behind each goal post.

Referees shouldn't worry too much about persons seated there unless they are actively trying to interfere with the goalkeeper. Given that the referee is well advised to delay restarting things until they have chosen another place to sit and watch.

Regards,