Question Number: 16687

Law 4 - Players Equipment 9/14/2007

RE: Grade 8 certified ref and E Licensed coach Adult

Tracey of Wilton, CT US asks...

In determining appropriate uniforms, how closely does a team's jersey have to match? We currently have a situation where our recreational players are being joined by some travel players in matches. As a coach I see that the difference in the uniform (the jersey in particular) can at times intimidate the recreational players as well as make them feel inferior at times, however that is not the issue. I wondered if you (as an official) would be opposed to the variation in the jerseys. The color is the same, however the travel jersey is numbered and has a noticabley different appearance. I couldn't find anything under Law 4 that specifically states all jerseys need to be identical. Have there been any Decisions in this area? I am interested to hear your thoughts on this. Thank you :)

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

For youth soccer in particular, and for all but professional soccer in general, all the referee really needs is to be able to identify which team a player belongs to, barring some league rule regarding uniformity. If the colors are the same or close and contrast with the other team, I personally don't care whether they are identical or not. As long as they are rostered, have their player card or whatever paperwork is necessary for them to play in the game and have the requisite shirt, shorts, shoes, socks and shinguards required by the Laws of the Game, then we should let them play.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

When we talk of recreational matches close enough is usually good enough. As we progress up the competitive ladder close enough becomes the same because uniform does tend to mean exactly the same. Sleeve length is another matter, some players just like to be different. If the players are credentialed to play on a side then they should play.

You do open an interesting point by saying the word "intimidate". If a uniform is thought to be intimidating by the referee he will not allow it to be worn and he shouldn't. When there was a mix of uniforms, even at the men's amateur level, I would discuss the disparity with the coaches and captains to see if they were the least bit concerned, usually they weren't. At that point I shouldn't be concerned UNLESS the league was concerned in writing.

Regards,