Question Number: 25612

Mechanics 10/16/2011

RE: All level up to college Adult

Scott Madden of Grafenwoehr, Germany asks...

My question has to do with mechanics. I've seen in several games, mostly in college but now I am begining to see this sometimes in FIFA, MLS, and EUFA leagues. That as an AR moving down the field following the run of play will keep his flag down in the left hand but put his right hand straight out while running forward as if to signal that there was no offside infringement.

I have looked in the usual places to find such an answer as if this has become some sort of additional signal. But I have not found one. So I'm just wondering what you might have heard about this. As usual you mentors do wonderful work and I appreciate all the responses I receive from you. Even the ones when you tell me I'm an idiot.

Thanks again.
Scott

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

That is an unofficial signal. It is used enough in my area that most refs know what it means. When we are told to 'wait and see' before calling offside, sometimes it is beneficial for the center referee to know, 'You don't have to wait, there isn't going to be any offside.' I'd be surprised to see it being used in the top-level games you cite, because they usually have audio connections so the AR could simply tell the ref, 'Not off.'

USSF states in Advice to Referees (section 5.4):
Other signals or methods of communication intended to supplement (not replace) those described in the USSF Guide to Procedures are permitted only if they do not conflict with established procedures and only if they do not intrude on the game, are not distracting, are limited in number and purpose, and are fully agreed upon before the match. Such signals should be kept to an absolute minimum, and should not be demonstrative or draw undue attention to the referee (or the assistant referee).

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Scott
Yes this an unofficial signal and it shows that the assistant has not seen any offside infringement. I believe that it used for the benefit of spectators who may think that there is a possible offside but the signal dispels that view.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Scott, I hope none of us have ever given you the impression we thought you, or anyone else, was an idiot.

We appreciate your taking the time to write us and also that you respect us enough to trust our answers.