CDSRA Ask The Referee

Ask the Referee_Archived

This section is devoted to archiving all of the questions and answers.

(04/16/2008) Question 361:
...on a delayed blue card and i know not recomended but delayed yellow card, if the team that was victim of the foul scores do they still get the powerplay?

(04/13/2008) The Ref's Response:
If the Ref decides to indicate a delayed penalty, then the Ref must see an advantage to the attacking team that should be played out. If the advantage results in a goal scored, then the time assessed for the card would be in accordance to the Rules of Indoor Soccer. So then the following time assess would result:
- If there is a player already in the box serving a Minor or Double-Minor and the team is playing short, their current 2 minute time would be relived.
- If the delayed penalty is for a Red Card offense, and the play can go on, then the team is serving a 5 minute with no relief.
- If the box is empty, then the offending player is relived of the first 2 minutes.
It may be wise to note your decission on the game sheet

(04/12/2008) Question 360:
if a fan doesnt want to leave the field what does the referee do ??

(04/13/2008) The Ref's Response:
The conduct of the spectators are the TEAMS responsibility, not yours. Assuming your actions described in Question 359 do not produce a positive result, you make it clear to both coaches (ie. I suspect even though you may think you know the team responsibly, you need to be sure), preferably in a loud enough voice that the spectators hear as well, that the game will not be restarted until the particular spectator has left the park. In the very unlikely event neither coach takes action, after the appropriate waiting period the game is abandoned.

After the game is complete, it is important to submit a Misconduct Form with your game report. If you are a member of the CDSRA, this was near the top of the list from our Presisdent and the Referees Affairs Committee.

(04/12/2008) Question 359:
if the fan started to swear at you do you go and kick them out or do you talk to there coach??

(04/13/2008) The Ref's Response:
Quite often the spectators are not on the same side of the field as the team. So talking to the coach is an option, and I'd say a good one if the team is on the same side as the spectators, but may not be as affective as the Ref talking to the spectator. However the Ref should anticipate the reaction of the spectator (ie. is he/she just caught up in the moment, or are they acting this way intentionally). If the Ref does chooses to speak to the spectatator, make it brief. Point out that their actions are inappropriate (especially if this is a Minor's game) and to please refrain. The Ref is not there to debate calls etc. with a spectator and you may wish to make that clear to the spectator, again depending on how you perceive that comment would be taken.

(04/01/2008) Question 358:
During a CUSA womens game that was getting a little emotional (just enough to up the tempo with out injuries), the ball was rolling back to the goalie with an attacker bearing down but it appeared to me that the goalie was going to beat her. My attention then was either distracted to another something
on the field (perhaps a sub request) or I just had already shifted upfield anticipating the play. When I suddenly looked back to see the attacker slide tackling to beat the goalie to the ball. The keeper did pick it up (after the slide tackle had started) but took a tackle to the ankle and went down. Naturally, the defending team was outraged. I viewed this as a case of perhaps a bit of carelessness but the slide was made when the ball was still 50-50 but made contact after it was scooped up. I confered with my AR who confirmed they saw her sliding before it was picked up. THat is the call I made and it was supported by the players/coaches after I explained. I have always wondered to this day if perhaps another ref would have made a different call.

(04/01/2008) The Ref's Response:
I trust this was a CWSA game, not CUSA. Either way the Ref's reaction is the same.

Bottom line: Players are responsible for their own actions.

From the situation described, the attacker did not win the ball (or even make contact with it) and kicked the keeper. As described, this is a foul.

It's unclear is how severe the contact was:

Severe enough to call? Caution? Dismiss? (ie. did the attacker slide in feet first or in a dangerous manner?)
Trifling enough to leave the ball in the keepers hands and play on?
Perhaps with a warning to the attacker to control her actions.

Starting a slide does not absolve a player of the results of their actions. How late the CONTACT is made is one of the measures of how 'careless' or 'reckless' an action is.

(03/25/2008) Question 357:
What are the rules in regards to screening or blocking the vision and actions of a goalkeeper?

(03/26/2008) The Ref's Response:
There is no rule regarding 'screening a keeper'. However there are sections in the Rules of Indoor Soccer and the Laws of Outdoor Soccer regarding impeding and obstruction by a player on an opponent. Impeding would be a player stepping into the path of an opponent with minimal or no opportunity to safely challenge for possession. Obstruction would be a player: stepping into the path of an opponent with no intention of playing the ball (Note: there is a fine line between 'Shielding the ball' and obstruction); or intentionally waving an arm/hand in the opponent's face. For example, the tactic of 'dummying the ball' is not obstruction.

'Screening a Keeper' is a common tactic used in the Indoor Game, because there is no offside. In the outdoor game the main opportunity to 'Screen a Keeper' is on a Corner Kick. So the Ref must determine if the attacking team player is 'Screening', or or is the player guilty of Impeding and/or Obstruction. One indicator may be did the player take a position and stay there, or did the player move with the keeper, with no intention or opportunity to play the ball, forcing the keeper to take a wider path.

(03/19/2008) Question 356:
We recently played a tournament game which ran into a shoot-out. Our team won. Two CMSA referees were on hand to witness the game. The opposing team accepted the loss .... at the time. Then 3 days later, without discussing it with our Coach, we were told to be at the field at a certain time (one hour prior to the Gold game) as the Shoot-out was going to be \"Re-done\". This was absolutely insane. And even more disappointing when our team lost the 2nd shoot-out. Can you please explain how 2 CMSA Referees witness the shoot-out, call the win (which didn\'t seem to be a problem at the time), put it in the books and 3 days later they retract their decision? And why wasn\'t out Coach included in the discussions that lead to the final decision to re-do the shoot-out? How does this happen?

(03/19/2008) The Ref's Response:
Without a crystal ball, I could not even guess at the sequence of events that resulted in this outcome. I suspect this was a League decission and I'm not in a position to comment. I recommend your Coach and/or Team Manager refer this question to an official with CMSA.

(03/19/2008) Question 355:
...when can I get a 2nd pach for the upcomming 08 outdoor season (black/white paches)

(03/19/2008) The Ref's Response:
This subject was briefly commented on at the CDSRA March 18th ART Class. The 'UNOFFICIAL' word is there are currently enough crests/badges to meet the demand for Refs Renewing and the anticipated number of new Refs. Once ASA has filled this need (which I can guess would be Mid June), Our Local ASA Rep will order sufficient stock.

(03/17/2008) Question 354:
During one of our indoor tournament games (U16 tier 4), an attacker was running forwards toward the net to bring down a high ball and the keeper came out to punch out the ball. There was a collision and the attacker went into the boards. She ended up being down for around 20 minutes while we waited for an ambulance. There was approximatly 21-22 minutes remaining when the injury occured, however the clock continued to run until the 2 minute mark. We then had to play the last two minutes of the game. My question is, is having only getting to play about 3-4 minutes of the second half, is this considered enough time for the game to be considered legal, or could we have argued for a re-match because there was not enough of the game played?

(03/18/2008) The Ref's Response:
What constitute as a game deemed played is up to the league supplementary rules. Many leagues have different rules when it comes to this. The CMSA League rules and most of their Tournament rules are 2/3rds of the game, indoor or outdoor, constitutes as a game played.

(03/12/2008) Question 353:
A team is setting up a free kick which is within scoring distance from the goal. Two players are standing ready to take the kick. The first player runs up to the ball, doesn't touch it, and runs over the top of the ball. The second player is following close behind and takes the shot. Is this kind of fake allowed? It is obviously a rehearsed set piece.

(03/12/2008) The Ref's Response:
You're correct, it is a '...set piece'. You see this play at all levels from Minors up to the Professional Leagues, both Indoor and Outdoor. Rule13 states that "...the kicker shall have five (5) seconds (indoor)to put the ball into play.". Law 12 states that a player can be cautioned for "...excessively delaying the taking of a throw-in or free kick.". The 'kicker' can be anyone on the attacking team that was awarded the free kick. There is no mention regarding the activity of any of the kicker's teammates.

(03/11/2008) Question 352:
I recently awarded a penalty for an infringement in the penalty area and afterwards wondered if a red card should have been shown for denying a goal scoring opportunity. An attacker broke through and ran towards the goal with a defender on her left hand side keeping pace. As the attacker was about to shoot with her right foot,from about the penalty spot, the two players bumped just enough to put the attacker off balance and she was unable to get the shot off. I saw this as the defender contacting the player before the ball, which was on the far side of the attacker. The contact was not agressive, and may not have been intentional, but it did prevent the shot. There was only the goalie to beat. A red card would have been harsh but I wondered if a red card should have been shown as it was a definite goal scoring opportunity. Do the rules allow some latitude in a case like this.

(03/12/2008) The Ref's Response:
My colleague and I had this discussion, and I oppologize if this gets long winded:
First - was the balled carrier fouled, or was this simply a 'fair challenge/charge'. If the defender "...was not aggressive" and the intention was to make a play for the ball from the side (ie. not from behind) and the ball carrier succesfully 'shielded' the ball that resulted in the contact, then there is no foul and the penalty shot was not even warrented.
Second - "The contact was not aggressive...", but the Ref observed the defender intentionally bumped the player with no intention of playing the ball (ie. attempted to 'Charge' or 'Tackle' the ball carrier which is a foul). When you mentioned "There was only the goalie to beat.", it tells us that it was a definite 'shot on goal' opportunity and a good chance at a scoring opportunity, but it is not a OBVIOUS goal scoring opportunity. Therefore only a penalty shot is awarded.
Third - The defender was overly aggressive and had no intention of playing the ball (ie. again attempted to 'Charge' or 'Tackle'), again it is not a OBVIOUS goal scoring opportunity but the Ref may choose to show a Blue Card. If the penalty shot is successful, the defender is relieved. If not, the team plays short for two minutes.
Fourth - Similar to the Second or Third statement, except the Keeper is out of position and there is nothing between the ball carrier and the goal, there is there is no question that the defender would be dismissed for Denying a OBVIOUS Goal Scoring Opportunity for a PENAL OFFENCE (See Rule/Law 12)
Lastly - If the ball carrier had gotten ahead of the defender directly infront of the goal, and the defender made an attempt to 'tackle' from behind, again there is no question that the defender would be dismissed for Denying a OBVIOUS Goal Scoring Opportunity for a PENAL OFFENCE (See Rule/Law 12)

(03/10/2008) Question 351:
My question concerns cautions. When a team is a player short in an indoor game for a player receiving a yellow card and they then recieve a subequent blue card for a foul (so it is now a 5 on 3 situation); how long should be served by the players in the penalty box? Is it 4 minutes for the yellow card and two for the blue (unless goals are scored) from the time of the foul? We (the team) were informed that the second player (the player you recieved the blue card when we were down a player due the yellow but no goal had been conceded) had to go to the box and that his time would not start until the first player (cautioned with a yellow) finished his penalty.

(03/10/2008) The Ref's Response:
I'm not sure why the AR made this comment. Unless there are three players from the same team in the box, the two Time Penalties are served similtaneously, not consecutively. If a goal is scored against the penalized team, then the person serving the Double Minor would benefit first from the relief of the goal scored.

(02/27/2008) Question 350:
I fully understand and support the zero tolerance of abuse towards our young referees. I'm wondering if this abuse also applies to players by parents. I recently walked back to the referee\'s changing room and witnessed a father admonishing his daughter in an unbelievably loud voice for playing poorly. This was in front of her team and other parents. I'm sure we were all embarrassed for the little girl and uncomfortable with the situation. Do you have any suggestions as to how a referee should handle, if at all, this kind of situation.

(03/06/2008) The Ref's Response:
This a very sensitive subject. The strict letter of the Rules/Laws states the Ref has authority to enforce the Rules .... in connection to the game. This includes the conduct of spectators. But the reality is you need to be VERY sure you have read the situation right - and that you have an idea how the parent will react.
The second option you have is to say something to the coach, if you are comfortable with discussing this subject with the coach. Again be careful as you may be perceived as a concerned parent rather than a Ref.
The third option you have is to submit your concern to the league and/or club. CMSA and most, if not all, clubs have a very strict policy regarding the conduct of parents towards Refs, Coaches, Players, and other spectators. I've seen parents banned from attending games for such conduct.
If you are at all unsure how this discussion will be perceived, I'd choose the third option. With any option you choose, also note it on JUST PLAY.

(03/02/2008) Question 349:
....why if you are hurt you need to stay down on the ground and not go to the bench.?

(03/03/2008) The Ref's Response:
The player's 'need to stay down' is a signal to the Ref and/or AR that they either requires assistance to get off the field of play, or getting off under their own power would be slow which would place themselves or other players at risk of further injury. The only method to do either safely is to have the play stopped.

(03/02/2008) Question 348:
In reference to Question 347: In outdoor does the team play a player short for the second half?

(03/03/2008) The Ref's Response:
If the term 'player' is the literal definition, then YES the team plays short in the seoond half. If the Term 'player' is the general definition, then it depends if the 'player' was a player on the field of play or a substitute. If the 'player' is a substitute, the team DOES NOT play short on the field, but does play with one less substitute.

(03/02/2008) Question 347:
If the referee red cards a player and dismisses him/her from the field during half time is the 5 minute penalty still served.

(03/03/2008) The Ref's Response:
If the Red card is for one of the 7 offences list in Rule 12, then the team must serve the 5 minute major time penalty in the second half (note: the team does not need to send a player to the box). If the Red Card is for a second Yellow, then the team plays short for only 4 minute/Double Minor Misconduct.

(03/01/2008) Question 346:
If I call a 3-line pass but then realise that i made a mistake how should play be restarted?

(03/02/2008) The Ref's Response:
The proper restart is a drop ball. You may also request to the teams that fair play would be in order and the one team kick the ball back to the other team's defence.

(02/28/2008) Question 345:
I'm interested in your view as to how strict the laws should be applied in a one sided game at the U10 or U12 level. I was AR for a GU12 game and at 5-0 had stopped putting goals scored on the scoreboard. In the last few minutes of the game a losing defender ran into the ball just outside the defensive line and knocked it back to her keeper who picked it up. I made eye contact with the ref and indicated a handball and while we both looked at each other neither of us wanted to call it. Did we take a learning opportunity away from the teams or can we show some compassion at this level when one side is well and truly beaten?

(03/02/2008) The Ref's Response:
You can show both compassion and present this as a learning opportunity. Let the player, goal tender, and posibly the coach know at the earliest opportunity you did not call the hand ball, even though it was in violation of the Indoor Rules of Soccer, in the interest of game management. And in any other game, it would have been called.

(02/27/2008) Question 344:
Now you've piqued my interest. In questions 340 & 312 I understand your logic if the blue is upgraded to a yellow as the players go to the box. However can a blue be upgraded to a yellow after the play has started? Surely the dissent after play has started is a completely separate offence and it is too late to upgrade the previous penalty which has already begun.

(03/02/2008) The Ref's Response:
Your question has raised a few eyebrows. The consensus I've received so far is the rules are not clear on this situation as it is described. The Rules do state that if a "...second offence...after the restart" is committed, the Yellow Card is shown and the Time Penalty start when the 2 minute minor has expired (ie. potentially the player is in the box for 6 mins). However the way the question was submitted leaves doubt that this is NOT a "second offence", it's still part of the first offence and the AR was just late in calling the Ref over.
In the case of the latter, a correction in the restart. Teams are 6 on 5 until such time the 2 min misconduct has expired. Then at the next stoppage, the one player is released, and the player that received the Yellow card serves the remainder of the Double Minor.
Please note that this answer is still not official. Our senior Ref has submitted this to ASA for their interpretation of the Rules.

(02/27/2008) Question 343:

I would like to look into finding out how to get registered to referee in Calgary. I was a level 3 back in Ontario. I have not registered since 2005 because with moving here in October 2006 I didn't have the time in the summer 2006 to referee since I traveling back and forth to find a place to live. Any information would be a help.

(02/27/2008) The Ref's Response:

You'll need to register with ASA (Alberta Soccer Association), and then contact the CSF (Calgary Soccer Federation) Ref Coordinator to get your name on the Ref Manager Website. It's a bit late for the Indoor season, but the outdoor season is only month and a half away. So once you are registered and have your name on the Ref Manager Website, you can sign up for the outdoor refresher where all other details will be explained.

(02/27/2008) Question 341:
Can you explain when to call a slide tackle in indoor. I've seen yellow cards given for fairly innocent looking tackles and nothing given for agressive looking tackles. I'm wondering if there are different rules for different leagues e.g. CO-ED v CUSA?

(02/27/2008) The Ref's Response:
Yes, rules are different. The CO-ED league DOES NOT allow slide tackles and players guilty of this offense are cautioned. This is stated in the CO-ED 2007-08 Indoor Supplimental Regulations.
In all other leagues the player is NOT cautioned for a slide tackle. However in the judgement of the Ref, the player may be cautioned for playing in a dangerous manner. Some indicators may be, but not limited to: the defender's feet/legs are NOT down low on the turf; the defender's action plays the ball and the motion carries through to take out the attacker as well (note: this is as opposed to the defender plays the ball and then the attacker simply runs into/over the defender); the attackers direction of play is towards the boards with no time to recover, and to some extend the skill level of the teams.

(02/27/2008) Question 340:
With regard to question 312 when player A time expires doesn\'t player B starts serving his double minor and the goals scored and time expired are dealt in accordance to a double minor rather than being allowed on the field when the goal is scored?

(02/27/2008) The Ref's Response:
In Question 312, the Ref showed the BLUE card as a warning to both players to 'cool down', before the situation esculates into a cautionable or send off offence (ie. In outdoor, the players would be just taken aside for a brief discussion). Player B did not heed that warning and therefore Player B's BLUE card was upgraded to a YELLOW, and the time penalty was also changed from 2 minuite to a 4 minute (aka 'double minor').

(02/26/2008) Question 339:
I refereed a mens over 30 indoor game and during the game there were alot whistles blown for fouls and cards were given. After the game as myself and the other ref stepped off the field one the players approached us and started to verbally attack us. Are we as refs allowed to do anything after the game?

(02/24/2008) The Ref's Response:
DEFINITELY!!! Rules of Indoor Soccer Rule # 5 states "Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Rules of Indoor Soccer in connection with the match to which he has been appointed." Logically you wouldn't show the player a card. But you can note a card on the Game Sheet. If a RED card is warrented, you can ask the Team Manager/Coach for the Player's card. If your request is refused, note the Red Card on the game sheet and in the comment section advise the league that the RED Card was given for conduct after the game and the Team Manager/Coach refused to provide the player's card, then let the league deal with it.

(02/24/2008) Question 338:
When you have quilliefied to be a ref what do you get after the cource?

(02/24/2008) The Ref's Response:
You should receive a letter from ASA (Alberta Soccer Association) welcoming you and it should also contain a badge. If you'd like to inquire regarding your qualifications, you can contact them Toll Free 1.866.250.2200.

(02/21/2008) Question 337:
Red #13 is attacking with Red #11 to his left. White defender #2 challenges red #13 with a slide tackle just as ted #13 passes the ball to res #11. Red #13 is brought down but the advantage was applied with a flying card. Red #11 scores on the advantage and during the stoppage white #2 is cautioned for USB.
Does white #2 serve the double minor or is the first 2 minutes eliminated by the scoring of the goal?

(02/21/2008) The Ref's Response:
In summary: White #2 is assessed a YELLOW card by the Ref; because Red team has an advantage called, the Ref holds up a 'flying card' (ie. Blue) to see how the advantage plays out; the advantage results in a goal scored and play is stopped; White #2 is shown the YELLOW card which is be recorded (ie. if this player receives a second YELLOW, the player is dismissed, or depending on league regulations the player could receive game suspensions based on the number of YELLOW cards received); accompanying the YELLOW card is 4 min time penalty which consists two 2 minute consecutive time penalties, or commonly referred to as a "Double Minor Misconduct" (Rule #12 2007/2008 Rules of Indoor Soccer); the first 2 minutes of the Time Penalty is forgiven because a goal was scored against the White Team; White #2 has 2 minutes left to serve on the Time Penalty in the box.

(02/19/2008) Question 336:
At a the tournament this past weekend, the referee allowed several direct hits on the goalie with no verbal discussion or penalties applied to the offender. In one instance the goalie was hurt and required medical attention. Can you please clarify the rule(s) on this situation.

(02/19/2008) The Ref's Response:
The Rules/Laws of the Game regarding "direct" contact are the same for any player on the field. If the direct contact is reckless, and/or shows intention to play the opponent and not the ball, then it is a foul or a cautionable offence.
However because the Keeper is often more vunerable to injury from a direct contact, Ref's in general will call this action a bit tighter than they would for a player to player contact.

(02/19/2008) Question 335:
At a recent men's game an attacker broke clear and was running with the ball directly towards the opponent's goal. The goalkeeper came running off the line, dropped low, very agressively and deliberately slid into the attacker's feet, and took out the ball and the attacker resulting in a crunching collision. This occurred outside the penalty area. Both players were hurt and the game was stopped for several minutes. The well respected referee dropped the ball to restart the game while I was expecting a red card to the goalkeeper for sfp. Please help me understand how two referees can see an incident so differently.

(02/19/2008) The Ref's Response:
Without being there to see the event, or having a video to watch, this is difficult to give a yes or no answer to. However I will take the description literally.

First there are two (2) refs on the field: the Ref in the middle and the AR. If the AR saw something, that Ref can call over the Ref in the middle to discuss. The final decision though is with the Ref in the middle.
Secondly the keeper "...slid into the attacker's feet, and took out the ball...". For the Keeper defending a breakaway, that is the best defence provided the keeper slid into the attacker with both feet down and the soles/legs not directed at the attacking player to block the travel of the ball. In this case the attacker also has the obligation to avoid a "crunching" collision. If the keeper delibrately did more than just try to take out the ball, ie. coming in hard and reckless enough or soles/legs directed straight at the attacking player's feet or legs to take out the attacking player, and the attacking player had no chance to avoid a "crunching" collision, then a card may be warrented.

So the description of the event would conclude that NO FOUL was committed and the stoppage was the result of injury. I suspect the Ref though explained to both players to remind them that both have to be able to work at their day job the next day.

(02/19/2008) Question 334:
At a kick off a player from the team kicking off ran forwards over the centre line, after I blew the whistle but before the ball was kicked, and played the ball. I stopped play, gave the player a verbal warning and restarted with another kick off. Should I have shown a blue card straight away and was the restart correct?

(02/19/2008) The Ref's Response:
At the beginning of the half or after a goal, this is the correct restart.

In general, the player that crossed the line usually has done so in error by mis-timing the touch by the teammate and you are correct to 'educate' the player on the proper restart procedure. If you do so in a manner both teams understand why, which is usually quite evendent, the second time this happens you can assess if the player is intentionally trying to delay the restart and show a card.

(02/19/2008) Question 333:
Do the rules say anything about an attacking player moving backwards and forwards in front of a goalkeeper just prior to a free kick being taken just outside the penalty area. The defending teams coaches were claiming such movement is not allowed. The attacking player was obviously trying to distract the keeper and succeeded as a goal was scored with the keeper unable to see the ball. There was no contact between the players. What parameters does a referee use to judge if an offence has been committed?

(02/19/2008) The Ref's Response:
Commonly referred to as 'Screening the Keeper', this is part of the game. However there are limits, and it is the judgement of the Ref to determine if the attacker(s) is simply 'screening' or trying to gain an unfair advantage. Some 'parameters' that the Ref may use, but not limited to, is: the attacker is waving his/her arms and/or hands to create a distraction; the attacker is facing the keeper as opposed to the play; the attacker's movements are impeding the keeper's and/or defender's movements; using certain spoken words to distract the keeper and/or defender; to name a few.

(02/11/15) Question 332:
I have now refereed a number of adult games and it appears widespread that players and coaches seem to think it is not a foul as long as the ball is played first even if the tackler follows through and makes significant contact with the player in possession. I have called a number of fouls where the player in possession has been bruised, knocked over or even injured. These calls get howls of protest from the offending team and often leads to further discipline. Is there some way we can clarify this rule with coaches and players so that this point of contention can be removed from the game.

(02/11/15) The Ref's Response:
There will always be coaches and players who are unaware of the Rules/Laws of the game. Not sure that is changing any time soon. You'll see this right through to the professional leagues.

It then comes down to the 'Man Management' part of the Ref's job. If you explain to the coach/player that, in your best judgement, excessive force was used in the tackle which is listed as a 'Foul' and in the extreme case a Cautionable offence. Some will accept that explanation, some will argue. But in the end it's the Ref's decision that counts. For those that don't, I say to them that if they are firm in their belief that they can pass along their comments on the Ref evaluation form.

Also remember the Players/Coaches view point. As Refs we all have our level of tolerance, and that is not necessarily uniform throughout. As part of your 'Man Management' you need to have them understand YOUR level of tolerance, which is usually indicated by YOUR consistant calls.

(02/11/15) Question 331:
I sometimes have not been able to find my games in the Just Play list. I'm suspecting that if one official fills in the Just Play form then it is taken off the list. Should only the R fill this form in; even though there is also input from the AR? If I fill in this form as the AR do I then prevent the R from also sending in his comments?

(02/11/15) The Ref's Response:
I too have encountered games on the Just Play site that are not listed. But the explanation I received from the league was because the information was not provided, or not provided with the correct info (ie. wrong date, etc.) to the Just Play Administrators.
The games that are uploaded properly are visable. The only thing that is affected by your colleague entering info first is that the winner and the position are already selected. The stats you input are associated with your login.
If a particular game is missing and you'd like to enter the stats, please contact the League and advise them of the missing game.

(02/11/2008) Question 330:

This is a follow up to question 321 regarding players wearing different colour socks on each leg. I am also bothered by this as I interpret it as an unsporting ploy to distract the other team.

The CUSA Discipline Code book, on page 19, defines uniforms as a distinctive set of clothes for all team players consisting of a jersey, shorts and socks of uniform colour and design.

Does this definition not imply socks are to be the same colour?

(02/13/2008) The Ref's Response:
The term "...uniform color and design" refers to the team, not the player. The response in question 321: "The uniform must be same for all players, with the exception of the Keeper." implies that if all players are wearing a different colour sock on each foot, the TEAM SOCKS are "...of uniform colour and design" provided they are all wearing the same coloured sock on each respective foot. If some players are wearing the same coloured socks, or a colour other than those worn by their team mates, then they NOT of uniform colour and design.

(02/11/2008) Question 329:
In the AR's box in indoor soccer there is a telephone to call for security if the officials have to deal with unruly spectators. Do the soccer centres actually have security personnel available or does this line go to the staff at the front reception desk. I am asking this as the staff are often young people and it may not be reasonable to ask them to deal with an ugly situation. Spectators causing a problem are often emotional upset and exhibiting unacceptable behaviour.

(02/13/2008) The Ref's Response:
I referred this question to the General Manager of the Calgary Soccer Center:

"The writer is correct. It goes to the front kiosk for our Building attendants. They are not security. If there is an unruly fan/player that appears to be a threat then you would then ask BA's to call police. My staff IS NOT THERE to act as bouncers."

The key word in his reply is "THREAT". The Ref will discuss this with the CSC Staff. If they are not willing to take on this task, the next persons I would go to is the coaches and advise that the game is stopped until such time the spectator is removed from the building. Most coaches will know who the spectator is and take action before the Ref is forced to abandon the game. Then failing that, the last resort is for the BA's to call the police.

(02/11/2008) Question 328:
IF A PLAYER IS SUBED AND THE PLAYER WHO COMES IS NOT ON THE REFS LIST CAN THE SUBED PLAYER COME BACK ON ?

(02/13/2008) The Ref's Response:
In theory, this should never happen. The Ref can not knowingly allow the person to come on the field if that person's name is not on the team list for the game.

But in the event a mistake is made, not only can the player come back on, the player MUST come back on because the substitution was never made. In order for the substitution to be complete, both names must be on the Team list for the game.

(02/05/2008) Question 327:
Feb. 3 we had our game at the Southeast Soccer center. We belong to the competitive U12A. In the game the opponent coach became the Assistant Ref. with out our consultation. Is this right? Especially when so many calls coming from him were against our team. Is this fair play?

(02/02/06) The Ref's Response:
It is recommended that Ref discuss 'game control' with the assistant before the first Kickoff. If the assigned Ref does not show, then the Ref has to decide if he/she will do both roles, or ask for a Parent/Coach volunteer. Ref's are encouraged to discuss 'game control' with both Team Managers so both team players and coaches understand how challenging this situation is and the Ref will do the best he/she can.

'Fair Play' is subjective. The Ref has the authority to agree or disagree with the AR's call, whether the AR is a Ref or a Parent/Coach Volunteer. The Coach may have made the call, but it was the Ref that had to take the appropriate action. I suspect the Ref in this case was new and may not have experienced this situation until now.

Either way, I encourage you to go to the CMSA web site, place the cursor over "Club and Team Official's Area" and select Referee Evaluation. Please don't look at this as a method of critizing a Ref, but a method for CSF to help the this Ref and others to become a better referees.

(02/02/2008) Question 326:
On the NW soccer centre fields I have seen corners taken from both the round spot close in to the goal and also from where two lines meet with a small dashed arc further away from the goal. Please confirm where the corners should be taken from.

(02/02/2008) The Ref's Response:
Both are locations for a corner kick. The 'Round Spot' is the location for the "Boarded" game, and where the end line and side line meet is the location for the "Boardless" game. This is the case for both the NW soccer center or the East soccer center.

(02/02/2008) Question 325:
During a GU14 CMSA game the referee counted down 5 seconds for a free kick and when it was still not taken then awarded the kick to the other side. I thought this was supposed to be a blue card for a delay of game, a two minute penalty, and the kick is retained by the penalized team. Are there special rules for CMSA. Can you please clarify?

(02/02/2008) The Ref's Response:
By Rule number 8, ASA Indoor Rules of Soccer, your understanding is correct:

On any start or restart, the team entitled to the kick has five (5) seconds to play the ball.
In the event of taking more than five (5) seconds, the kicker is penalized by a two (2) minute minor misconduct penalty for delaying the restart. However, that team remains entitled to the restart

The ref may have had this confused with the Laws of the Outdoor Game (if a Keeper delays the restart by more than 6 seconds, an indirect kick is awarded to the opposing team).

(01/31/2008) Question 324:
How far across the goal line does the ball have to go (indoor soccer) in order to be counted as a goal?

(02/01/2008) The Ref's Response
The "Rules of Indoor" and the 'Laws of Outdoor' state the same explanation:

RULE 10 – The Method of Scoring

Goal Scored

A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Rules of Indoor Soccer has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal.

It is not a case of '...how far'. If 100% of the ball has crossed the back side of the goal line, it is a goal. The major difference in the Indoor game is that there is no AR in line of sight with the goal line. Therefore it falls on the Ref to judge "Did 100% of the ball cross the line?". If the Ref has any doubt, then the Ref should signal NO GOAL.

(01/31/2008) Question 323:
Following an attack an attacking player runs across the goal line and is off the field. The goalie has possession of the ball in his hands, and unaware there is an attacker off the field behind him, drops the ball at his feet. The attacker runs back onto the field, collects the ball and kicks it into the goal. Is this a goal or should the goal be disallowed and the player cautioned for USB, either entering the field without the ref\'s permission or leaving the field to gain a tactical advantage. An example of this is on youtube and the attacker is celebrating. However it does not show the restart so the ref\'s decision is not known.

(01/31/2008) The Ref's Response:

This one is actually pretty famous. That clip made the youtube rounds a couple of times. The answer is: Goal, restart with kickoff. The attacker left the field of play as a normal part of play. This is analogous to running off the field to get around a defender. There is no problem with doing it. Also, if you have left the field in this manner you are implicitly judged to have permission to re-enter the field. There is definitely nothing unsporting about it. The goalkeeper should know better.

(01/22/2008) Question 322:
I have just finished the indoor conversion course ... I understand, I have to shadow/sit-in on two games before I can ref and I must have a for for the referee to fill out. Where can I get the form and once I have completed the sit-in sessions, who do I contact in regards to scheduling?

(01/22/2008) The Ref's Response:
Forms for shadowing are supposed to be in the referee rooms at either soccer centre. If not, you can write down the game details on a piece of paper along with your name and have the referee sign it when you are finished sitting in for both games. Leave it in the ref room with the gamesheets.

To be scheduled you must submit an availability form through the referee manager by the 10th of every month if you want to be assigned games for the following month.

(01/21/2008) Question 321:
I've seen a couple of instances where the individual players wear a different colour socks on each leg. As a referee I find this very distracting and I'm sure the opposition does also. Is there anything in the rules to say both socks must be the same colour. As a ref am I within my rights to ask the players to change their socks. The last time I saw this the players had one red and one white sock. At the very least they could switch socks so that each player had either both white or both red; perhaps a compromise to at least let the game go ahead.

(01/22/2008) The Ref's Response:
I can see nothing in the Rules and/or Laws of the game that would prohibit a team from doing this. The only item is that the Jersey, Shorts, and Socks should be distingtive from the opposing team, Referee, and the Assistant Referee. The uniform must be same for all players, with the exception of the Keeper.

(01/16/2008) Question 320:
I have a daughter that is thinking about taking a refereeing course and she would like to know how much you get paid per game in the outdoor season, what do you get paid?

(01/16/2008 The Ref's Response:
The fees are published on the Calgary Soccer Federation Referee Website

(01/12/2008) Question 319:
while fighting in the corners, is there any time limit or restrictions other than the basic calls a ref would normally be required to make?

(01/12/2008) The Ref's Response:
If two Players are 'fighting' anywhere on the pitch, the play is stopped.

However I'm going to boldly assume the term "fighting" is an opponents challenging for possession of the ball '...in the corner. There is no specific statement in the Rules of Indoor Soccer regarding a 'Time Limit'.
There are restrictions under Rule 12. If the Player in possession of the ball is fouled but maintains possession, the Ref may allow the play to continue. If the Ref sees no advantage gained by allowing the play to continue, a free kick can be awarded. The Ref may also call out an instruction to both players to let them know the foul was seen and to be careful, just to let both players know they are being watched.

This holds true for anywhere on the field of play. If the game is flowing well, Ref's will wait a few seconds to see what transpires before blowing the whistle. If tensions are high, the Ref may blow the whistle immediately so that calmer heads can prevail.

(01/07/2008) Question 318:
During the course of the game one team received 3 bench minors. These minors were served by player A, who had been injured. With the third "blue" for the bench would player A be yellow carded?

(01/08/2008) The Ref's Response:
Rule 12 states "A player is cautioned ....is assessed a 3rd minor misconduct time penalty". "Player A" wasn't shown any "Blue Cards", the bench was shown the Blue Card. So Player A could not be Yellow Carded. However the Bench can be Yellow Carded and this should be noted on the Game Sheet. I suspect the league would be in contact with the coach.