Question Number: 26227

Law 5 - The Referee 4/23/2012

RE: Region 1 Under 18

Oliver of West Hempstead, NY Nassau asks...

Referee stops the game, goalie is hurt.
Does the goalie has to leave the field ?
This is a U17 Girls, in a state cup game played in New York State.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Oliver
No. The goalkeeper does not leave the field of play on an injury and an exception is made on this within the Laws.
the other exceptions are
#A player that has been injured in the clash with the goalkeeper.
# Two players from the same team collide and need treatment

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Under the laws of the game, the goal keeper is not required to leave the field if play is stopped for a serious injury/the trainer is summoned onto the field. Note: High School rules (NFHS) are different, and there are no exceptions- - - the keeper must leave the field (but may be substituted).

Many states in the US have adopted special provisions for concussions, which may affect what happens even in matches played under the laws of the game.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Not if the game is being played under the LOTG should the keeper have to leave the field because play was stopped to deal with her injury. However, as my colleagues have noted, the state rules may affect whether or not this happens. And, if this was a HS playoff, the keeper must leave.