Question Number: 28863

League Specific 10/18/2014

RE: select Under 9

tom wade of bellville, ohio usa asks...

Had a parent argue that Rica had a rule change and that the goalies body became one with the ball and that if the body of the goalie from the waist up crossed the goal line even though the ball in the goalies hand did not it was a goal. My understanding is the entire ball must cross the goal line and that is the only criteria. Am I correct?105237

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi TOM,
I KNOW you are correct! The entire entity of the ball must completely CROSS the goal line, UNDER the crossbar and BETWEEN the posts!
What is Rica???
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Tom
Most underage soccer is played under the Laws of the Game. The laws allow for certain modification for underage games. However this type of modification would not be allowed as it is at odds with the fundamentals of the game. It is the location of the ball that matters not the position of the player.
I would also question any so called rule changes from a parent or spectator. Many times even if there was a local playing rule change it can become confused in communication. Also perhaps some well meaning individual thought it would be a great idea to change the law perhaps like some other sports. That suggestion after being discussed for a number of weeks then gathers legs to become what some think is a local law change.
I would also suggest that when debate arises the simplest way is to ask for where it is written down. When we played on the street we had a rule of last player back could be the goalkeeper. That won't be found written down in any rule change!!

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

What is Rica? Is that your local association or club?

This illustrates two problems with local rules. First, they must be disseminated to the referees if the competition authority wants the referee to enforce the rules. Second, the rule changes are often misunderstood, by players, coaches, parents and/or referees.

That said, it would not make sense for this to be a rule change. In every other situation involving the ball, it is the position of the ball completely over the line that determines in/out.

I won't try to fight the argument that this wouldn't be one of the 5 modifications allowed for younger players. USYSA and AYSO have gone far beyond those 5, with no repercussions from USSF or FIFA.