This page will be where we share anything that comes up from coaches, players or referees and my thoughts and/or researched responses.

SUBBING:

Q: "Can one really substitute on ANY stoppage INCLUDING a stoppage for a free kick?"

A: Yes, at the REFEREE'S discretion based on flow and allowing for advantage to kicking team, sub(s) from either or both teams can be permitted.

Q: Might the referee not allow sub(s) when our team has possession?

A: This should be fairly rare, but sometimes game flow may take precedence at the referee's discretion. Perhaps consider shouting instructions to your players to delay their restart, when you are wanting to substitute on your possession despite game action.  Tactical delaying of the game however, is poor sportsmanship, and will not be tolerated. 

Q: "Possession in not required to sub?"

A: Correct, possession, nor "piggy backing," is not required to sub.  HOWEVER, the REFEREE will decide if based on flow and any advantage, if sub(s) will be permitted at any particular stoppage.

Q: "Why are we allowing subs on ANY stoppage?" 

A: Subbing on any stoppage at the discretion of the referee is the un-modified Law.  Not modifying this law simplifies subbing and also provides more opportunity to players for participation.

Q: How do I ask for sub(s)? Should coaches be shouting, "Sub ref!"

A: Please, no shouting. During play, send sub(s) to stand at midfield.  The referee's should be looking to admit sub(s) - from either or both teams - at any appropriate stoppage - the referee will decide exactly on what stoppage based on flow and advantage, but can now choose to admit subs at ANY stoppage (instead of previous years when this rule was modified).

"Back Pass to keeper":

Q: Can you additionally clarify the "back pass" (to goal keeper) infringement?

A: It is only an offense when the keeper (inside their penalty area) has used their hands to receive a KICKED ball (by FOOT) from their own player who has 100% DELIBERATELY passed the ball to their keeper.  If the ball comes from any deliberate deflection from any part of body besides the foot (knee, chest, head), that is legal.  Ball may never be played with hands directly from their team's throw-in. Restart is IFK for other team from spot of infraction (move ball from inside goal area to nearest point on 6 yard, goal area line.) EXCEPTION (updated in 2019): If the keeper kicks or attempts to kick the ball but is UNSUCCESSFUL (whiff or miskick) the keeper CAN then handle the ball.