Question Number: 16692

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 9/14/2007

RE: REc Under 11

sean of aberdeen, MD US asks...

Is it a hand ball if a player puts his hands up to avoid getting hit with the ball?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

That depends on how much time he had to avoid being hit. If the ball suddenly appears in his vision headed toward his face, and he does a classic "duck and cover" move, I'll not call it, at least not in youth leagues.

But if he sees a high lob coming his way, has enough time to camp out underneath it, is waiting for it to come down, and then at the last minute decides he really doesn't know how to do a header, I will call handling.

If the player has a better option than handling the ball, he should take it. I tell players they could step back and take it on their chest or legs, or they could jump out of the way. The coach may have an idea of which option is the better one.

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Mr. Voshol is right on with his response. If the player had no time to react, then no. If he had time to play the ball in a different way, then it should be called. The referee must make a subjective analysis and sell the decision.