Question Number: 21902

Law 9 - The Ball in and out of Play 9/6/2009

RE: rec (highest level refed is U-12 AR) Under 14

Erik of Waukesha, Wisconsin USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 21800

so then was if it hits a coach?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

If the ball hits a coach, preventing the ball from leaving the field of play, the coach is not in his technical area. He is interfering with the play on the field, and potentially interfering with the assistant referee. The coach should be reminded to stay in his area. How that is done depends on the level of the game and what has gone on before. At many youth games the technical area is not defined by paint; it has to be inferred by the placement of the teams. Still, the coach should be at least a yard or two off the touchline at all times. Dealing with it could be a friendly reminder: 'Coach, I appreciate your assistance in stopping the ball, but make sure it is completely across the line. Could you please stay back so it doesn't happen again?' If the coach is a complete raving madman, it may be time to send him to the parking lot.

Answer provided by Referee Gene Nagy

What hit the coach? Lightning? A good idea? Speak English Erik! Or ask your Mom to write the question.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

I assume you reference 21800 where a ball is about to go over the touchline but hits a substitute. If the ball hits the coach and the coach is on the field, we restart with a dropped ball. If he's off the field no big deal