Question Number: 27759

Law 8 - Start and Restart of Play 9/14/2013

RE: Recreational Under 12

Brian H of Seattle, Washington USA asks...

In a U11 game, I was administering a dropped ball that was being contested by one player from each team. I advised all players within earshot that the ball had to hit the ground first, otherwise we would have to do it over. One player kicked the ball before it hit the ground no fewer than three times before a proper restart was completed. After each improper touch of the ball I repeated my admonition to wait until the ball hit the ground.

Would it have been appropriate to caution this player for delaying the restart? Or to ask that another player from his team contest the dropped ball?

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Probably not. You're dealing with excited little kids and you should cut them some slack. Older more skilled players might deserve a caution

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

Hi Brian,

I agree with Ref Contarino. Maybe we can start thinking outside the square here instead?

If a normal drop ball isn't working, then other things which may work, given it's such a young age and not an overly high skill level, then you could try dropping it very, very close to the ground. You could even forcibly bounce the ball (not too hard, just enough to help it get to the ground a little faster), or tell the players to wait for you to say 'go'. All of these would be permissible under the laws - and maybe have a quick chat to the coach when you're able.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Brian
A caution would be harsh at underage particularly when contested dropped balls are unusual.
I would look for other solutions such as moving the players further away from the drop point or a favourite of mine is the 'pretend' drop followed by words of distraction about waiting for it and then when least expecting it a quick drop.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Was it the waning minutes of the game and the kid's team was up by one goal? And do you think he had the smarts to know that he was using up time by flubbing the dropped ball?

Unlikely at that age, but possible. More likely, as my colleagues suggest, he was just eager.

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 27844