Question Number: 21311

Law 18 - Common Sense 5/8/2009

RE: rec Under 13

Vito Loconte of Edmonton, Canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 12970

If a player commits a dangerous kick (toward the head) near his/her own teammate outside the penalty area, is that an Indirect Free Kick for the opposing team or no call??

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Technically it is a coaches job to increase the communication between his players ... You as a referee could warn players to be careful, mention putting a name on it when challenging for the ball in a crowd to avoid confusion . There is no legal recourse to award the other team the ball or a definative reason to stop play unless the circumstances promote an injury!
UNLESS If you were USA highschool (NHSF) they have altered the laws to permit this as an INDFK against for PIADM. While I think it a silly revision in Canada a whistle for such an event is at best a drop ball. This is a quick whistle in anticipation of a bad looking circumstance or a real need to settle an over exuberant team mate! Otherwise use the next natural stoppage to have a quick chat about safety!

Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

You cannot commit a foul against a teammate. If, however, one teammate is trying to do bodily harm to another, then they may commit misconduct. For example, if one teammate viciously kicks or strikes a teammate, he may be sent off for violent conduct. However, he could never commit the IDFK foul of playing in a dangerous manner against a teammate.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

No call, no offense. Highly unlikely it would even be misconduct!

Remember, offenses can only be committed against opponents, not teammates. As my colleagues note, misconduct - as in unsporting behavior or violent conduct are possible - improbable given only what you said in your question.

Trust me, the teammate and/or coach will exact any needed justice via oral communication!