Question Number: 23443

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 6/9/2010

RE: Amateur youth, adult, and high school High School

Tim Mann of Akron, OH USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 23428

This is a follow up question to Keith's answer (which I have copied and pasted.)

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

'The second 'foul' can't be a foul as play has stopped. The infraction can only be dealt with as misconduct and the player is either cautioned or sent off. In US High School soccer some 2nd cautions don't bring a red card and there is also a soft red where the player does not have to sit out an additional game.'


Under what circumstances in high school can a 2nd caution not lead to a red card/disqualification (since we're using high school terminology)? Is this a regional modification? In Ohio, a second caution is displayed by the referee showing the red/yellow cards in the same hand at the same time, aka 'the fan.' This results in the player leaving the game but he/she may be replaced, unlike FIFA rules. The 'fan' may also be shown to a player who draws excessive attention to herself after scoring a goal. In both of these instances however, the player is shown a red card. I always respect Keith's answers, and I am hoping to have some clarification. Thanks again.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Horrible terminology on my part for which I apologize. What I meant to say was a red card as understood by FIFA and USSF is not given. By that I mean just what you say, the player may be replaced. Thanks Tim for catching this and sorry for mistake