Question Number: 34427

League Specific 11/23/2021

RE: AYSO

steve of Altadena, CA USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 34425

Three notes with respect to AYSO. First, the current guidelines from AYSO on location of the IFK for deliberate heading are exactly the same as the LOTG: if in the goal area, the IFK is from the edge of the goal area, not the penalty area. (I believe it may have been the penalty area for the first year.) Second, AYSO is very clear that heading can never be the basis for discipline of any type (not DOGSO, not SPAA, not persistent offenses). Third, not all ball-head contact requires stopping play. Play is stopped if deliberate or if there is an injury concern. Incidental soft contact does not require stoppagethough referees are encouraged to err on the side of caution.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Steve
thanks for the insight and clatifications.
In the last mini indoor tournament I did a few years back they had added a provisional there was no free kick taken closer than 10 yds which likely was based on the move it out line and the ring of fire issues that often occurs in younger dominated matches.

It is good that the only concern is for the welfare of the kids themselves not the act upon which they might have used to prevent the goal Caution and common sense go well together if used effectively

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Steve
Thanks for the clarification in respect for AYSO.
As mentioned Rules of Competition vary and it is important that referees familarise themselves fully with those for the assigned game and competition.
US Youth Soccer policy states that if the heading occurs within the penalty area, the referee shall move the ball outside the penalty area and award an indirect free kick to the opposing team.
US Club Soccer policy is that if the deliberate header occurs within the goal area, the indirect free kick should be taken on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point

AYSO ROCs
https://ayso1ref.com/lib1/pdf/2021_S1_Rules_&_Regulations.2021-06-30.pdf
Page 6 refers to these matters

Answer provided by Referee Peter Grove

Hi Steve,
Thanks for the update and clarification.