Question Number: 22428

The Technical Area 11/3/2009

RE: Select, Competitive, Rec Under 17

Brent Brady of Westminster, CA USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 22056

I wld assume that the technical area is the same as a Coaches Box from the bottom of one midfield Center to the other side, a distance of about 20 yds max & 3 yds from the touchline, plz confirm?

also, what is the proper way to blow the whistle to abandon a match?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Brent

While the size and position of technical areas may differ between stadiums, the following notes are issued for general guidance:
? the technical area extends 1 m (1 yd) on either side of the designated seated area and extends forward up to a distance of 1 m (1 yd) from the touch line
? it is recommended that markings are used to define this area
? the number of persons permitted to occupy the technical area is defined by the competition rules
? the occupants of the technical area are identified before the beginning of the match in accordance with the competition rules.
Some competitions such as Underage, NHFS can stipulate a different size area and that will be stated in the competition rules

There is no recognised whistle to abandon. It is done verabally to the coaches and captains after the game has been stopped with a whistle with a simple statement such as 'The game is abandoned due to the unplayable condition of the pitch.'

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

When there is no marked technical area, the center circle is an easy way to reference 10 yards on either side of the halfway line.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

The whistle only stops play but a referee would call over the captains/coaches and explain the match is abandoned for whatever the reasoning.
The technical areas should be lined although many leagues or field users neglect this , creating unneccessary problems.
I suggest that the two technical areas be on the same side of the field in opposite halves with the parents fans on the far side of the field or contained within the bleachers.
Proper technical areas and teams substituting from the same side of midfield make substitution errors less likely!
Cheers