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Soccer is a game like no other. It is
unique, in that the participants may not handle the object with which they are
playing. The arms and hands are supposed to be used only for equilibrium, not
to fend off opponents or control the ball.
When the ball comes in
contact with the arms or hands it is a hand ball. However, much to the dismay
of many, there is no such call. Referees often use the term "handball" but only
for expediency. The actual call is "handling." The very word "handling" denotes
the commission of a deliberate and intentional act designed to accomplish one
of three things:
An incidental handball, even if it results
in the ultimate advantage of a goal, must not sway the referees judgment The
mere fact that the ball comes into contact with the arms or hands means nothing
unless the referee deems the act intentional. Then and then only is it a foul.
Understanding the age and skill level of the participants will help
the referee form an opinion as to the intent of the act. An apparent "handball"
that results from obvious reflexive action to avoid injury bears careful
examination and a healthy dose of common sense. Younger and less skillful
players may react often by protecting their head with their arms. However, If a
player uses his/her hands to cover up from a bail coming at them from 20 or 25
yards away, when he/she could have easily moved out of their way, they may be
guilty of handling.
Webster's Dictionary defines reflexive action as an
involuntary action, often unconscious, of certain muscles reacting to a
particular stimulus. An involuntary and unconscious act can hardly be
interpreted as intentional.
To penalize or not to penalize, that is the
question. Feeling the tempo of the match, the attitudes of the players, and the
use of common sense go a long way toward a correct call. Ultimately the referee
must judge intent, not results.
© 2003 Francesco A. Scarsella, EMSOA Rules Interpreter