Question Number: 25528

Law 13 - Free Kicks 9/30/2011

RE: Rec Under 13

Doug B of Irvine, Ca USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 25498

I understand the 8 feet guideline, that is probaby just a player misjudging. Defender should be reminded/paced off if requested. Otherwise, I as referee keep my mouth shut, so as not to distract the kicker.

I also understand the player who plants themself as a statue about a foot in front of the ball. At younger ages, (rec U12 or even u14) does it matter if they do this on their own or if they are prompted by teammates/coach to do this? I would guess it makes no difference, and if it's obvious, at least a verbal warning with shout of (team does not need to request 10), or an automatic caution. Second time without a doubt would be a caution.

But what about the U10's and U12's who have a player stand about 5 or 6 feet out? Field is smaller, players might not know the rules or distances yet, and might not have an idea how far 10 yards is, in some cases. Should that just be a verbal guidance of 'need to give the kicker more room, 10 yards' or should it be paced off, or should it also go along the lines of 'first time is instruction, second time is caution.'

Thanks for your advice,
Doug B

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Doug B
This action is usually coached as players rarely get to this position of their own accord. On the 1st instance the referee should take immediate action. The ref should let every player know that this action will not be tolerated. When it happens again the referee must take action by way of a caution.
When it gets near to the penalty area the referee will probably go ceremonial unless the defending team has switched off in which case they may want to go with a QFK which should be facilitated.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

I think you mean 8 yards not 8 feet guideline. U10 is definitely instructional and the player at 5 feet should be told it's 10 yards. Referee should blow the whistle and make the kick ceremonial after moving everyone 10 yards. U12 is iffy. If the player runs to the ball and stands right in front of it at the minimum he's getting a strong talking too. If the coach is screaming at him to do this, I'm issuing a caution as clearly the coach does not know the Laws and no amount of arguing with him (I used to do that) will do any good. These coaches are not only ignorant of the Laws but usually have no interest in learning or simply do not believe you. The caution puts an end to the behavior.