CHECKLIST FOR REFEREES

PLAYING COURT : Goals 7 meter line

Nets Substitution area

Markings 4 meter line

BALL : Select one and ensure one spare is available;

Ensure proper size;

PLAYERS/EQUIPMENTS : Goalkeeper’s colors

Team captain’s armlet

Shoes, rings, necklaces, bandages

REFEREES’ EQUIPMENT : Whistle Coin

Red card Pencils/ pens

Yellow card Paper (for recording)

TIMEKEEPER/SCOREKEEPER

(BEFORE GAME) : Scoreboard 2 balls

Stopwatches Whistle

Score sheet completed Suspension sheet

Score sheet signed Playing time

TIMEKEEPER/ SCOREKEEPER

(OTHERWISE) : Remember who went in.

a. Supervise substitution: no pettiness; however,

do not hesitate to take action.

b. After interruptions, injuries etc. Check that

there are two players and or officials on the

court.

c. Yellow cards, suspensions, red cards,

exclusions; confirm to the referee with hand

signal that it is recorded. Make careful notes

(also on suspension sheet).

d. Watch out time-outs. React quickly.

e. Be alert towards the end of each half. No

buzzer, when free throw, 7 meter has been

called.

REFEREE’S EQUIPMENT

ESSENTIAL : Valid referee card

Proper clean uniform

Current rule book

2 whistles

2 pens/ pencils

Yellow card and Red card

Coin

Score card

Measurement tapes

Nail clipper

Scale

OTHERS : Pump

Sewing kit

Athletic tape

Spare shoelace

And a good attitude towards the game-players, coaches,

officials and spectators.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST : COMMON SENSE

CODE OF ETHICS FOR REFEREES

1. Know the rules and interpret them using common sense.

2. Be psychologically and physical ready at all times.

3. Be firm yet fair in taking each decision.

4. Run each competition calmly, confidently and tactfully.

5. Judge adequately and without provocation.

6. Give equal importance to each match.

7. Avoid uncalled for game stoppages making sure that the sporting spirit of the

rules is maintained.

8. Treat the players, the coaches and spectators with courtesy.

9. Cooperate with colleagues and have for technical officials.

10. Share knowledge and experiences; seek to improve oneself at all times.

11. Accept criticism.

YOU ARE THE REFEREE

1. Injury

Stop the game immediately and show the trainer the permission to move onto

the playing area signal. Use the new hand signal No. 17 (Permission for two

persons who are entitled to participate to enter the court during time-out).

2. Time-out

With a time-out it is suggested that only one referee go to the timetable; the

other referee should always watch the players on the court and keep eye

contact with the substitution area.

3. Keep the distance of 3 meters

You may tolerate (once or twice) the non-respect of the defenders, after that

you must show the yellow card or even 2 minutes suspension. Rule 15:7

4. Playing the free ball

The referees should tolerate some contact when two players are trying to get

possession of the free ball (if the aim of the players is the ball and not the

opponent).

5. Intentional grabbing of the arm

When the players have no intention of playing the ball the referee should

sanction these actions more severely. This should be done in a progressive

way.

6. Sanctioning

The new objectives of the referees is PROGRESIVENESS. This means that

the referees should go through the YELLOW CARDS before using the

suspensions. The type of the game will indicate when you have to use the

progressive scale.

7. Team playing short handed (Passive play)

The referees must be alert when a team tries to waste time when it is a man

short. When the players are looking for a free throw, it should be considered

as time wasting or an offensive foul, depending on the situation. You must be

careful in its application.

8. Indication for free throw

If there is confusion as to where the free throw is to be taken from, the referee

must move quickly to the exact spot and indicate from where the free throw is

to be taken. The referees must always indicate the direction of the free throw

immediately. It is not always necessary as to why the referee blew the whistle.

9. Penalty shot

It is not permitted to change goalkeepers after the thrower is ready to take the

throw. If the goalkeeper does attempt substitution he/ she shall be warned for

unsportsmanlike conduct and must stay in goal. If the players insists on

substitution he/ she must be suspended for 2 minutes. If the players have

already been warned or the team has received 2 yellow cards, the player

must be suspended.

10. Throw off

No tolerance – because a goal can be scored directly, the position of the

player must be correct. The referee must go to the centre line immediately

after a goal has been scored.

11. Games must start on time

It is responsibility of the referees to do whatever they have to do and to make

every effort to be ready with the throw off at the scheduled game time.

12. Remember on any throw you must have one foot on the ground. On a free

throw, teammates must stay outside the 9 meter line until the ball is played.

13. Make sure the person you are “warning” is looking at you. If necessary, you

have to move in front of the player when you are the goal line referee. It may

not always be necessary for both referees to have yellow cards but you must

be ready to assist your partner when need arise.

14. If ‘another player’ has to leave the court to serve all or part of the suspension,

time of guilty player, this ‘other’ player shall remain fully eligible to play on the

court at any time.

15. The referee must always keep eye contact with the timekeeper and

scorekeeper. The referee must make sure that they understand when you

allow a goal or disallow a goal. Always look in their direction to indicate a

warning or suspension; the scorekeeper should then indicate to the referee if

the information has been understood.

REFEREE PARTNERSHIP

EYE CONTACT & MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING

One cannot put two good referees together and expect them to make a good pair.

Only through working together can the two separate identities develop as a pair.

In principle, they must always give each other a glance to check on any decision

they make. For this reason (in most cases), a reaction should not be too fast.

DIFFERENCE IN OPINION : Recognize the mistake

Stop

Resume game when both teams

understand which decision is valid. The

game must be started with the whistle.

REFEREES DUTIES : BEFORE THE GAME

UNIFORM : You must be neatly dressed in the black or colors distinctly

different from the players’ jerseys.

The referees monitor the conduct of the players and the team officials from the

moment they enter the premises until they leave.

Rule 16:13 Unsporting conduct or assault in the sports hall/ field is to be penalized

as follows:

Before the game:

a) A warning shall be given in the case of unsportsmanlike conduct;

b) Pronounced unsporting conduct or assault shall punished by

disqualification but the team is allowed to start with 12 players.

You should always be at the premises half an hour early before the game is to start.

If there has not been any games before hand that day, your first job is to check the

playing area:

All lines are correct;

The size of the court must be within the regulation;

The goals and nets must be in order;

The referees alone decide on which two balls are to be available for the game. Once

the game has started, the selected ball shall be changed only for reasons of absolute

necessity.

The referees also responsible to:

Establish the presence of both teams in the prescribed clothing;

Establish the presence and the identity of the team and officials appointed

to be responsible for their teams;

Check the scoring sheet and players’ equipment;

Check the substitution area.

Any discrepancies must be put straight

Before the start of the game, the captains must sign the score sheet. They must

make sure that the names and the numbers are correct.

Both referees are responsible for keeping the score.

REFEREE DUTIES : DURING THE GAME

1. Check and confirm the duration of playing time.

2. The game starts with a whistle from the court referee and the final signal

comes from the timekeeper.

3. Both referees are responsible for watching the playing time.

Rule 16:13 Unsporting conduct or assault in the sports hall is to penalized as

follows:

During half time:

c) A warning shall be given in the case of unsportsmanlike conduct;

d) Repeated or pronounced unsporting conduct or assault shall be

penalized by disqualification.

Make notes of warning, suspensions, disqualifications and exclusions.

REFEREE DUTIES : END OF GAME

The referees are responsible for keeping score and for watching the playing time.

After the game, the referees get together before going to the timekeeper’s table.

ENSURE SCORE IS CORRECT

1. At the timekeeper’s table:

Ensure playing time is correct

Check with scorekeeper for final score of the game.

2. Check game sheet

Cross out any players who did not participate

Correct end result

Check warnings, suspensions, etc. (if any disqualifications or exclusions

occurred, make a report at the back of the game report or score sheet).

Check remarks/ protests.

REFEREE DUTIES : AFTER THE GAME

Rule 16:13 Unsportsmanlike conduct or assault in the sports hall is to be penalized

as follows:

After the game : A written report.

Disqualifications outside the court or infringements after the game against the

referees as well as exclusions, must be explained on the score sheet.

REFEREEING

REFEREE MUST WHISTLE

When taking of a throw in, goal throw of free throw is delayed

When game is restarted

When the referees disagree as to which team shall be penalized

After a correction or caution

After a warning

After a suspension

After a disqualification

After an exclusion

o The player/ thrower must play the ball within 3 seconds after the

whistle is blown

o A throw is considered taken when the ball has left the hand of the

thrower. The ball cannot be handed

o Incorrect positioning of defending players during a throw in or a free

throw must only be corrected

o By the referee if the attacking team suffers a disadvantage

A goal may be scored directly from any throw!!

THE PUNISHMENTS

A WARNING shall be given for (Yellow card)

1. Fouls concerning the approach to an opponent (to be punished

progressively).

2. Fouls when the opponent is taking a throw.

3. Unsporting conduct by a player or an official.

When a warning is given, the referee shall indicate this to the guilty player or official

and to the score keeper/ time keeper by holding up the yellow card.

Important:

The referee should give only one warning to an individual players and a total

of three warnings to a team

A player who was previously suspended should not be warned anymore

Only one warning should be given to officials of a team.

A SUSPENSION shall be given (2 minutes)

1. For incorrect substitution or entering the court against the rules.

2. For repeated unsporting conduct by a player on the court.

3. If the ball is not put down immediately by the player in possession of it when a

decision is called against that team.

4. For repeated infringements of the rules when the opponent is taking throws.

In exceptional cases, a suspension may be given without any previous warning. The

period of suspension begins when the play is restarted (whistle). The suspension

time will be carried over to the second half or extra time if the suspension time has

not expired by the end of the first half or game respectively.

A DISQUALIFICATION shall be given (Red card)

1. If a player who is not entitled to participate enters the court.

2. For serious fouls regarding the approach to an opponent.

3. Repeated unsporting conduct by an official or a player outside the court.

4. Pronounced unsporting conduct.

5. For assaults by officials or a player outside the court.

Disqualification of a player on the court is always accompanied by a period of

suspension.

When a player is disqualified, the number of players available to the team is reduced

by one until the expiry of suspension. The team may then continue at full strength.

An EXCLUSION shall be given:-

In the event of an assault on the court

Assault after suspension – on court = EXCLUSION

Pronounced unsporting conduct/ assault in substitution area =

DISQUALIFICATION

If a goalkeeper is suspended: The player may be replaced by the substitute

goalkeeper but a court player must leave the court.

Unsporting conduct is the use of physical or verbal expressions which are

incompatible with the spirit of good sportsmanship.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT OR ASSAULT

DURATION UNSPORTING

CONDUCT

PRONOUNCED

UNSPORTING

CONDUCT OR ASSAULT

Before the game Warning Disqualification (Team is

allowed to start with 12

players)

During half game Warning Disqualification

After game A written report

THE WHISTLE

HOLD THE WHISTLE IN YOUR HAND

In this manner quick reactions can be avoided. By the time you lift the whistle to your

mouth, the situation has usually settled itself or you can see more clearly. It is also

easier to observe the advantage rule.

VARY ACCORDING TO THE SEVERITY OF THE OCCASION

One can expect a lot by means of the whistle. The whistle must be blown for a

warning, suspension or a disqualification. Vary the whistle blast according to severity

of occasion. Avoid blowing the whistle as hard as possible from the start of the game

to the finish. It must not be forgotten that while the referee is warning somebody, the

defense is not concentrating or reacting, if the attacking player throws at this moment

while the defender has no chance of responding properly. It is important then to

always blow the whistle:

Throw off - A medium short blast

Goal - Two short blast

Time-out - Three short blast

Foul - A strong short blast

Restart - A short blast

DUTIES OF THE TIMEKEEPER AND THE SCOREKEEPER

1. Timekeeper

1.1 The timekeeper has the main responsibility for the playing time, the time-outs

and the suspension time of suspended players.

1.2 The timekeeper can interrupt the game when necessary.

1.3 The timekeeper must keep the responsible team official for each team

informed about how much time has been played or how much time is left,

especially time-outs.

1.4 There is no scoreboard clock with automatic signal available, the timekeeper

assumes the responsibility for giving the final signal at half time and at the end

of the game.

1.5 There should be no whistle or interruption from the timekeeper when 7 meter

throw is given.

2. Scorekeeper

2.1 The scorekeeper has the main responsibility for the team rosters, the score

sheet, the entering of players who arrive after the game has started, and the

entering of players who are not entitled to participate.

2.2 The scorekeeper should respond to the referees to each punishment given

against any player and official. The punishment given should be recorded.

2.3 To assist and to inform the referees the number of players allows playing at

each time of an infringement found.

Other tasks, such as the control of the number of players and team officials in the

substitution area, and the exit and entry of substituting players, are regarded as joint

responsibilities.

RULES TO BE ATTENDED

RULE 2 : PLAYING TIME, FINAL SIGNAL AND TIME-OUT

2.3 The playing time begins with the referee’s whistle for the initial throw-off. It

ends with the automatic final signal from the public clock from the timekeeper.

If no such signal comes, the referee whistles to indicate that the playing time

is over.

2.4 Infractions and unsportsmanlike conduct that take place before, or

simultaneously with, the final signal (half time or end of game) are to be

punished, also if this cannot be done until after the signal. The referees end

the game only after the necessary free throw (except free throws under Rule

13:4) or 7 meter throw has been taken and its immediate result has been

established (See also Clarification No. 1).

2.5 The throw must be retaken, if the final signal (for half time or end of game)

sounds precisely when a free throw or a 7 meter throw is being executed or

when the ball is already in the air. The immediate result of the retaken throw is

to be established before the referees end the game.

2.6 Players and team officials remain subject to personal punishment for

infractions or unsportsmanlike conduct which take place during the execution

of a free throw or a 7 meter throw in the circumstances described in Rule 2:4-

5. An infraction during the execution of a throw cannot, however, lead to a

free throw in the opposite direction.

2.9 The referees give the timekeeper a signal when the clock is to be stopped and

restarted in connection with a time-out.

The interruption of the playing time is to be indicated to the timekeeper

through three short blasts on the whistle and Hand signal No.16.

The whistle must always be blown to indicate the restart of the game after a

time out (15:3b).

4.1 The game may continue even if a team is reduced to less than 5 players on

the court. It is for the referees to judge whether and when the game should be

permanently abandoned (17:13) – 6th paragraph.

4.2 A team is allowed to use a maximum of 4 team officials during the game.

These team officials may not be replaced during the course of the game. One

of them must be designated as ‘the responsible team officials’. Only this

official is allowed to address the timekeeper / scorekeeper and, possibly, the

referees (see, however, clarification No. 3: Team time-out).

4.3 A player who is entitled to participate may, in principle, enter the court through

the team’s own substitution line at any time (see, however, Rule 4:4 and 4:6)

3rd paragraph.

A player who is not entitled to participate shall be disqualified if he enters the

court (16:6a). The game is restarted with a free throw for the opponents

(13:1a-b see, however, Clarification No.9)

RULE 4 : THE TEAMS, SUBSTITUTIONS, EQUIPMENTS

4.5 A faulty substitution shall be penalized with a 2 minute suspension for the guilt

player. If more than one player from the same team is guilty of faulty

substitution in the same situation, only the first player committing an infraction

is to be penalized.

4.5 If an additional player enters the court without a substitution, or if a player

illegally interferes with the game from the substitution area; there shall be a 2

minute suspension for the player. Thus, the team must be reduced by one

player on the court for the next 2 minutes (apart from the fact that the entering

additional player must leave the court).

If a player enters the court while serving a 2 minute suspension, he shall be

given an additional 2 minute suspension. This suspension shall begin

immediately, so the team must be further reduced on the court during the

overlap between the first and second suspension.

4.11 In the case of an injury, the referees may give permission (through Hand

signals No:16 and 17) for two of the persons who are “entitled to participate”

(see 4:3) to enter the court during a time out, for the specific purpose of

assisting an injured player from their team (4:2, 16:1d, 16:3d, 16:6b).

RULE 5 : GOALKEEPER

The goalkeeper is allowed to:

5.2 Move with the ball inside the goal area, without being subject to the

restrictions applying to court players (rules 7:2-4, 7:7); the goalkeeper is not

allowed, however, to delay the execution of the goalkeeper throw (Rules 6:5,

12:2 and 15:3b).

5.4 To leave the goal area with the ball and play it again in the playing area, if he

has not managed to control it.

The goalkeeper is not allowed to:

5.5 Endanger the opponent while in the act of defense (8:2, 8:5).

5.11 Touch the ball with the foot or the leg below the knee, when it is stationary on

the floor in the goal area or moving out towards the playing area (13:1a).

RULE 6 : THE GOAL AREA

6.2 7 meter throw, when a defending player enters the goal area and because of

this destroys a clear chance of scoring (14:1a).

6.3 Entering the goal area is not penalized when:

a) a player enter the goal area after playing the ball, as long as this does

not create a disadvantage for the opponents;

b) a player enters the goal area without the ball and does not gain an

advantage by doing so;

c) a defending player enters the goal area during or after an attempt to

defend, without causing a disadvantage for the opponents.

RULE 7 : PLAYING THE BALL, PASSIVE PLAY

7.10 It is not permitted to keep the ball in the team’s possession without making

any recognizable attempt to attack or to shoot on goal (see Clarification No.4).

This is regarded as passive play, which is to be penalized with a free throw

against the team in possession of the ball (13:1a).

The free throw is taken from the spot where the ball was when play was

interrupted.

7.11 When a possible tendency to passive play is recognized, the forewarning

signal (Hand signal No.18) is shown. This gives the team in possession of the

ball the opportunity to change its way of attacking in order to avoid losing

possession. If the way of attacking does not change after the forewarning

signal has been shown, or no shot on goal is taken, then a free throw is called

against the team in possession (see Clarification No.4).

In certain situations the referees can call a free throw against the team in

possession also without any prior forewarning signal, e. g when a layer

intentionally refrains from trying to utilize a clear scoring chance.

RULE 8 : FOUL AND UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

8.3 Violations of Rule 8:2 where the action is mainly or exclusively directed at the

opponent and not at the ball, are to be punished progressively. Progressive

punishment means that it is not sufficient to penalize a particular foul solely

with a free throw or 7 meter throw, because the foul goes beyond the type of

infraction which normally occurs in the struggle for the ball.

Each infraction that meets the definition for progressive punishment requires a

personal punishment, beginning with a warning (16:1b), and with a trend of

increasingly severe punishment (16:3b and 16:6g).

Warnings and suspensions given for other violations are also to be taken into

account progressively.

8.4 Physical and verbal expressions that are incompatible with the spirit of good

sportsmanship are regarded as constituting unsportsmanlike conduct. (For

example, see Clarification No.5). This applies to both players and team

officials, on or outside the playing court. Progressive punishment also applies

in the case of unsportsmanlike conduct (16:1d, 16:3c-d and 16:6b,g,h).

8.5 A player who endangers the opponent’s health when attacking him, shall be

disqualified (16:6c) particular if he:

a) from the side or from behind, either strikes or pulls back the throwing

arm of a player who is in the progress of throwing or passing the ball;

b) takes any action resulting in the opponent being struck on the head or

neck;

c) deliberately hits the body of an opponent with his foot or knee or in

other way; this includes tripping;

d) pushes an opponent who is running or jumping, or attacks him in such

way that the opponent loses control of his body; this also applies when

a goalkeeper leaves his goal area in connection with a counterattack

from the opponents;

e) hits a defending player in the head with a free throw taken as a direct

shot on goal, assuming that the defending player was not moving; or

similarly, hits the goalkeeper in the head with a 7 meter throw,

assuming that the goalkeeper was not moving.

RULE 9 : SCORING

9.1 A goal shall be awarded to the opponents, if a player plays the ball into his

own goal, except in the situation where a goalkeeper is executing a

goalkeeper throw (12.2, 2nd paragraph) 4th paragraph.

9.2 The referees must make clear (without a throw off) that they have allowed a

goal, if the signal for the end of half sounds immediately after a goal is scored

and before a throw off can be taken.

RULE 10 : THE THROW OFF

10.4 For the throw off at the start of each half (including any period of overtime), all

players must be in their own half of the court.

However, for the throw off after a goal has been scored, the opponents of the

shower are allowed to be in both halves of the court.

In both cases, however, the opponents must be at least 3 meters away from

the player taking the throw off. (15:7).

RULE 11 : THE THROW IN

11.4 The thrower must stand with a foot on the side line until the ball has left his

hand. The player is not allowed to put the ball down on the floor and then pick

it up himself, or to bounce the ball and then catch it again himself (13:1a).

RULE 12 : THE GOALKEEPER THROW

12.2 The goalkeeper throw is considered to have been taken, when the ball thrown

by the goalkeeper has crossed the goalkeeper line. (2nd paragraph).

The players of the other team are allowed to be immediately outside the goal

area line, but they are allowed to touch the ball until it has crossed the line.

RULE 13 : THE FREE THROW

13.2 The referees should allow continuity in the game by refraining from

interrupting the game prematurely with a free throw decision.

This means that, under Rule 13:1a, the referees should not call a free throw if

the defending team gains possession of the ball immediately after the

violation committed by the attacking team.

Similarly, under Rule 13:1b, the referees should not intervene until and unless

it is clear that the attacking team has lost possession of the ball or is unable to

continue their attack, due to the violation committed by the defending team.

If a personal punishment is to be given because of the rules violation, then the

referees may decide to interrupt the game immediately, if this does not cause

a disadvantage for the opponents of the team committing the violation.

Otherwise the punishment should be delayed until the existing situation is

over.

Rule 13:2 doest not apply in the case of infringements against rules 4:2-3 or

4:5-6 where the game shall be interrupted immediately, normally through the

intervention of the timekeeper.

FREE THROW EXECUTION

13.6 If a referee or technical delegate (from IHF or a continental / national

federation) interrupts the game because of an infringement on the part of a

player or team official of the defending team, and this results in a verbal

caution or a personal punishment, then the free throw should be taken from

the place where the ball was when the game was interrupted, if this is a more

favorable location than the position where the infringement took place.

13.7 Once a player from the team that received the free throw is in the correct

position for taking the throw, with the ball in hand, he must not put it down on

the floor and pick it up again, or bounce it and catch it again. (13:1a)

13.8 Players of the attacking team must not touch or cross the free throw line of the

opponents before the free throw has been taken. (15:1).

The referees must correct the positions of attacking players who are between

the free throw, if the incorrect positions have influence on the game (15:1).

The free throw shall then be taken following a whistle signal (15:3b).

If the case where the execution of a free throw has been authorized through a

whistle signal, if players from the attacking team touch or cross the free throw

line before the ball has left the hand of the thrower, there shall be a free throw

awarded to the defending team.

RULE 15 : GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE

THROWS

15.3 The referees must blow the whistle for restart:

a) always in the case of a throw off (10:3) or 7 meter throw (14:4)

b) in case of a throw in, a goalkeeper throw or free throw:

for a restart after a time out

for a restart with a free throw under Rule 13:4

when there has been a delay in the execution

after a correction of the player positions

after a verbal caution or a warning

After the whistle signal, the thrower must play the ball within 3 seconds

(13:1a).

15.7 Incorrect positions on the part of the defending players in connection with the

execution of a throw off, throw in, or free throw must not be corrected by the

referees, if the attacking players are not at a disadvantage by taking the throw

immediately. If there is a disadvantage, then the positions are to be corrected

(15:3b).

A player is to be warned if he delays or interferes with the execution of a

throw by the opponents, by standing too close or through other infractions. He

is to be suspended if he repeats it (16:1c and 16:3f).

RULE 16 : THE PUNISHMENTS

WARNING

16.1 Comment:

An individual player should not be given more than ONE warning, and a team

should not be given more than THREE warnings.

A player who has already had a 2 minute suspension should not subsequently

be given a warning.

No more than ONE warning in total should be given to the officials of the

team.

SUSPENSION (2 MINUTES)

16.3 a) for repeated fouls of the type that they are to be punished progressively

(8:3).

b) for repeated unsportsmanlike conduct by a player, on the court or

outside the court (8:4).

c) for the second occasion of unsportsmanlike conduct by any one of the

officials of a team, after one of them has previously received a warning under

Rule 16:1d (8:4).

d) for repeated infractions when the opponents are executing formal throw

(15:7).

e) as a consequence of a disqualification of a player or team official

during the playing time (16:8 2nd paragraph)

f) for unsportsmanlike conduct by a player, before the game has been

restarted, after he has just given a 2 minute suspension (16:12)

Comments:

When a 2 minute suspension is called against a team official in accordance

with 16:3b, the official is allowed to remain in the substitution area and carry

out his functions, however, the team’s strength on the court is reduced for 2

minutes.

16.5 The suspension period begins when play is restarted with a whistle signal (3rd

paragraph).

16.8 A disqualification applies, in principle, only to the remainder of the game in

which it is given. It is regarded as a decision by the referees on the basis of

their observation of facts. There shall be no further consequences of a

disqualification beyond the game, except in the case of disqualification due to

assault (16:6e-f) or when seriously unsportsmanlike conduct by a player or

team official (16:6d) falls under category a) or d) in Clarification No. 6 such

disqualification shall be explained in the match report (17:11).

MORE THAN ONE VIOLATION IN THE SAME SITUATION

16.12 If a player or team official is guilty of more than one violation simultaneously

or in direct sequence, before the game has been restarted, and these

violations warrant different punishments, then in principle, only the most

severe one of these punishments shall be given. This is always the case

when one of the violations is an assault.

There are however the following specific exceptions, where in all cases the

team must play at reduced strength on the court for 4 minutes:

a) if a player who has just given a 2 minute suspension is guilty of

unsportsmanlike conduct before the game restarted, then the player is

given an additional 2 minute suspension (16:3h). If the additional

suspension is the player’s third one, then the player is disqualified;

b) If a player who has just been given a disqualification (directly or because

of a third suspension) is guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct before the

game is restarted, then the team is given a further punishment, so that the

reduction will be for 4 minutes;

c) If a player who has just been given a minute suspension is guilty of

seriously unsportsmanlike conduct before the game is restarted, then the

player is furthermore disqualified (16:6d); these punishments combined

lead to a 4 minute reduction (16:8, 2nd paragraph).

d) If a player who has just been given a disqualification (directly or because

of a third suspension) is guilty of seriously unsportsmanlike conduct before

the game is restarted, then the team is given a further punishment, so that

the reduction will be for 4 minutes.

RULE 17 : THE REFEREES

17.7 If both referees whistle for an infraction and agree about which team should

be penalized but have different opinions as to the severity of the punishment,

then the most severe of the two punishments shall be given.

17.8 If both referees whistle for an infraction, or the ball has left the court, and the

two referees show different opinions as to which team should have

possession, then the joint decision that the referees reach after consulting

with each other will apply. If they do not manage to reach a joint decision,

then the opinion of the court referee will prevail.

17.11 Exclusions (16:11) and disqualifications of the type indicated in rule 16:8, 4 th

paragraph, must be explained in the match report.

GAME SITUATIONS

EXECUTION OF THROW

1. Shortly before the beginning of the game, A11 is so severely injured that he is

unable to play. Correct decision?

A. A11 may not be replaced.

B. A11 may be replaced is the opponents agree.

C. A11 may be replaced, his substitute may wear the number 11 and

must be entered on the match report.

D. A11 may be replaced, but his substitute may not be wearing

number 11.

Answer : C (2:4, 14:1a)

2. After the end of the playing time, a 7 meter throw was still to be executed. The

referees waited for the immediate result of the throw. Which referee should

then end the game?

A. The first- named referee.

B. One of the two referees

C. The court referee

D. The goal-line referee

Answer : B (2:4)

3. The referees have awarded a free throw for team A at the free throw line of

team B. Now there is a whistle signal from the timekeeper. The referees give

a time out and inquire about the reason for the intervention by the timekeeper.

The timekeeper informs the referee that A9 made a faulty substitution.

A. Free throw for A at the free throw line of B.

B. Free throw for B at the free throw line.

C. Free throw for B at the substitution area of A.

D. 2 minute suspension for A9.

Answer : A,D (4:5, 13:3 Clarification/ Interpretation/ Erl.9, 16:3a)

4. Throw off for B. The thrower B9 stand with one foot on the center line about

1.2 meters to the left of the centre point , and with the other foot a few

centimeters into the half of the opponents. The other players of team B stand

in their own half of the court. Decision?

A. Play on.

B. Correct the throw off position, as the thrower is not exactly at the

centre point.

C. Correct the throw off position for some other reason.

D. Free throw against B.

Answer : A (10:3, Clarification/ Interpretation/ Erl. 7)

5. Throw off for B. The thrower B9 stand with one foot on the centre line. The

court referee gives the whistle signal for execution. Now B9 sees that B7 is

running into the half of the opponents and is in favorable position. B9 throws

the ball to B7 who scores a goal. Decision?

A. Goal for B.

B. Correct the throw off position, as the thrower must throw the ball

before his teammates crosses the centre line.

C. Free throw against team B.

D. Warning to B9.

Answer : A (10:3 2nd paragraph, 15:1, 15:2, 15:7)

6. A6 executes a throw in standing with one foot inside the court and the other

one outside the side line. He throws the ball into the goal of team B. Decision?

A. Repeated throw in for A after whistle.

B. Free throw for B.

C. Goal.

D. Goalkeeper throw for B.

Answer : A (11:4, 15:1, 15:3b)

7. Free throw for A. A10 is in the correct position for taking the throw, with the

ball in his hand, he puts it down on the floor and pick it up again. Decision?

A. Play on.

B. Repeat free throw after whistle.

C. Free throw for B, warning for A10.

D. Free throw for B after whistle.

Answer : D (13:1, 13:7, 15:3b, 15:5)

8. B wants to take a free throw but A11 is standing only 2 meters away from the

ball and is trying to delay the throw. Decision?

A. Personal punishment for A11, free throw after whistle.

B. Free throw after whistle.

C. 2 minutes for A11.

D. Correct A11’s position and free throw after whistle.

Answer : A (15:7, 16:1c, 16:3f, 15:1, 15:3b)

9. Free throw for A. When everyone is standing correctly, A10 puts the ball down

to give some instructions. B7 grasps the situation quickly, takes the ball and

starts a counter attack. Decision?

A. Play on.

B. Repeat free throw after whistle.

C. Free throw for A, warning for B7.

D. Free throw for A, 2 minutes for B7.

Answer : A (15:4, 13:7)

10. Team B receives a free throw, but A5 is still in possession of the ball, A5 then

moves towards the referee and politely gives him the ball. Decision?

A. 2 minutes suspension for A5 and free throw for B from the spot

where the ball now is.

B. Warning for A5 and free throw for B from the spot where the ball

now is.

C. 2 minutes suspension for A5 and free throw for B from the spot

where the foul was committed.

D. Warning for A5 and free throw for B from the spot where the foul

was committed.

Answer : C (13:5, 13:6 Comm. / Note/ Komm., 16:3e)

11. B wants to take a free throw but A11 is standing only 2 meters away from the

ball and is trying to delay the throw. Decision?

A. Personal punishment for A11, free throw after whistle.

B. Free throw after whistle.

C. 2 minutes for A11.

D. Correct A11’s position and free throw after whistle.

Answer : A (15:7, 16:1c, 16:3f, 15:1, 15:3b)

12. Free throw for team B at the free throw line of A. The referee overlooks that

player B8 is in a position between the free throw line and the goal area line.

B8 receives the ball and scores. Correct decision?

A. Repeat the free throw after whistle.

B. Free throw for A.

C. Goal.

D. Warning for B8

Answer : A (13:8, 15:3b)

GOALKEEPING AND GOAL AREA

13. While taking a goalkeeper throw, goalkeeper A touches the goal area line with

one foot. Correct decision?

A. Repeat the goalkeeper throw after whistle.

B. Free throw for team B.

C. Play on

Answer : C (1:3, 12:2)

14. The ball lies on the goal line. Attacker A7 picks it up and tries to score. A7 has

a clear chance of scoring, when he is illegally attacked. Correct decision?

A. Free throw for team B.

B. Free throw for team A.

C. 7 meter throw for team A.

D. Goalkeeper throw for team B.

Answer : A (1:3, 6:4, 13:1b)

15. After the whistle for the execution of a 7 meter throw, the goalkeeper of team

A steps on the goalkeeper restraining line with one foot. The 7 meter throw

misses the goal above the crossbar. Decision?

A. Repeat the 7 meter throw after whistle signal.

B. Because there is not goal, play continues with a goalkeeper throw.

C. Position of the goalkeeper is correct – no action.

Answer : B,C(1:3, 12:1, 14:9)

16. Goalkeeper B is able to save a shot on goal and start a counter attack. In

doing so, he crosses the goal line with his left foot. Correct decision?

A. Play on.

B. Free throw for team A.

C. Repeat goalkeeper throw.

Answer : B (12:1, 12:2, 15:6)

17. Goalkeeper A is standing outside his goal area line in the playing area. While

receiving the ball from a teammate, the goalkeeper steps back with one foot

into his own goal area, while the other foot remains in the playing area.

Correct decision?

A. 7 meter throw for team B.

B. Play on.

C. Free throw for team B.

D. Suspension for the goalkeeper.

Answer : C (5:3, 6:2a, 13:1a)

18. During a goalkeeper throw, the ball has not yet left the hand of goalkeeper A,

when he puts one foot into the playing area. Correct decision?

A. Repeat, after whistle.

B. Admonishment for goalkeeper A.

C. Free throw for team B.

D. Play on

Answer : A (12:2, 15:3b)

19. Goalkeeper A stops a shot. The ball is rolling out towards the playing area

where B6 is alone waiting to pick up the ball. Goalkeeper manages to stop the

ball with his foot when the ball is on the goal area line. Correct decision?

A. Goalkeeper throw for A after whistle.

B. Progressive punishment for goalkeeper A.

C. Free throw for B.

D. 7 meter throw for B.

Answer : C (5:11)

20. A7 is outside goal area of team B grabs the ball that is clearly in the air above

the goal area and score a goal. Correct decision?

A. Goal for A.

B. Free throw for B.

C. Goalkeeper throw for B.

D. Goalkeeper throw for A.

Answer : A (6:4)

21. Goalkeeper A holds the ball for 4 seconds in a position where it is three

quarters over the goal line. Correct decision?

A. Goal

B. Free throw for B.

C. Goalkeeper throw for A

Answer : B (9:1, 6:5, 12:1)

22. Goalkeeper B has saved a shot on goal. He wants to start a counter attacl but

drops the ball and it rolls into the goal.

A. Goal.

B. Repeat the goalkeeper throw.

C. Throw in for team A.

D. Free throw for team A.

Answer : B (12:1, 12:2, 15:6)

23. 20 seconds before the end of the game, the score is 20 – 19 for team A. The

goalkeeper A16 takes a lot of time to execute a goalkeeper throw, bouncing

the ball back and forth in the goal area. What is correct?

A. Time out

B. Free throw against A.

C. Whistle signal for goalkeeper throw.

D. 2 minute suspension for A16.

E. Warning of A16

Answer : C (5:2, 12:2, 15:3b)

24. The goalkeeper stops the ball just in front of the goal line. When he tries to

pass the ball to a teammate, the ball falls out his hand and into his own goal.

A. Goal.

B. Free throw for the opponents.

C. 7 meter throw for the opponents.

D. Goalkeeper throw.

Answer : D (6:5, 12:1, 12:2, 15:6)

PUNISHMENTS

25. A5 has received a warning and two 2 minutes suspension. When team B is

taking a free throw, he does not keep his distance for the first time. Correct

decision?

A. Warning

B. 2 minute suspension

C. No punishment

D. Third 2 minute suspension and disqualification

Answer : D (15:7, 16:6g)

26. How is repeated passive play to be penalized?

A. Free throw and warning.

B. Free throw and suspension.

C. Free throw.

D. Free throw and disqualification.

Answer : C (7:10, 13:1a)

27. A team’s coach has been warned. At one of the referee’s decisions the doctor

from the same team runs several meters into the court. Decision?

A. No punishment.

B. Warning for the doctor.

C. 2 minute suspension for the doctor.

D. Disqualification of the doctor.

Answer : C (4:2, 16:3d)

28. In case of doubt, who decides about the accuracy of the timekeeping?

A. The timekeeper and scorekeeper.

B. The two referees jointly.

C. The timekeeper

D. The two referees and the timekeeper jointly.

29. Coach B requesting a team time- out when his team is in possession of the

ball. The coach gives the green card to the timekeeper. However, the

timekeeper is not in time to inform the referee to stop the game. Decision?

A. The green card should return to the coach.

B. The green card remains with the timekeeper.

C. The green card is no more valid.

D. The timekeeper will be suspended.

Answer : A (2:10, Clar. / Interp. 3)

30. Player A7 is disqualified because he has just received his third 2 minute

suspension. Directly thereafter he tries to discuss with the referees and does

not leave the court. Decision?

A. No further action.

B. Exclusion for A7.

C. Team A with one player less on the court for 4 minutes.

D. Team A with two players less on the court for 2 minutes.

Answer : C (16:12d)

31. B9 is given a disqualification because of serious foul against A9. (A free throw

is given to team A). Before the game is restarted, B9 hits the coach for team A

in the face.

A. Exclusion of B9, team B plays with 1 player less for the remainder

of the game.

B. Disqualification + Exclusion for B9, team B for 2 minutes with 2

players less and thereafter 1 player less.

C. Disqualification + disqualification of B9. team B for 4 minutes with 1

player less.

D. Disqualification + 2 minute suspension of B9, team B for 4 minutes

with 1 player less.

Answer : A (8:7, 16:9, 16:12)

32. B8 is given a 2 minute suspension following a time out signal. When he

leaves the court, before the game is restarted, he speaks in unsportsmanlike

manner to the referees.

A. 2 minutes + 2 minutes for B8. Team B for 2 minutes with 2 players

less.

B. 2 minutes + 2 minutes for B8. Team B for 4 minutes with 1 player

less.

C. 2 minutes + disqualification for B8. Team B for 2 minutes with 2

players less.

D. 2 minutes + disqualification for B8. Team B for 4 minutes with 1

player less.

Answer : B (16:12a, 16:3b)

33. Team B is playing with one player less. The players of B have already taken

up their positions in the attack and have started the preparatory phase. Now

B6 and B8 decide to go off the court for a substitution. Decision?

A. Forewarning signal.

B. Forewarning signal, if there is no increase in tempo within 5

seconds immediate free throw for A because of passive play.

C. Warning against B6 or B8 in the case of repetition.

D. 2 minutes suspension for B6 or B8 in the case of repetition.

Answer : A (7:10, 7:11 Clar./ Interp./ Erl.6)

34. In which of the following situations must a team be reduced on the court for 4

minutes?

A. A player has just been disqualified; when leaving the court he

protests in a way that justifies a 2 minute suspension.

B. A player has just received a 2 minute suspension; when he is

leaving the court he insults the referees and is disqualified.

C. A player has just received 2 minute suspension because of

unsportsmanlike conduct against an opponent; while he is still on

court, he hits an opponent in the face and the referees give him an

exclusion.

D. A player has just received a 2 minute suspension for

unsportsmanlike conduct; after he has crossed the side line he

comes back on the court and protests; the referees give him an

additional 2 minute suspension.

E. A player has just been given an exclusion, as he was spitting on an

opponent; when leaving the court he pushes a referee.

F. A player has just been disqualified because of a serious foul; after

leaving the court, but before the game is restarted, he insults the

referees.

Answer : A, B, D, F (8:7, 16:12)

35. A5 is given 2 minute suspension after 7:00. He protests before the game is

restarted and receives an additional 2 minute suspension. Exactly one minute

later he runs out on the court and timekeeper whistles. Because of the

additional suspension for entering the court, he is disqualified. Because of this

he now insults the referees.

A. Team A with 1 player less from 7:00 to 8:00; 2 players less from

8:00 to 10:00; 1 player less from 10:00 to 11:00.

B. Team A with 1 player less from 7:00 to 8:00; 2 players less from

8:00 to 11:00; 1 player less from 11:00 to 12:00.

C. Team A with 2 players less from 7:00 to 8:00; 3 players less from

8:00 to 10:00; 2 players less from 10:00 to 11:00.

D. Team A with 2 players less from 7:00 to 8:00; 4 players less from

8:00 to 10:00; 2 players less from 10:00 to 11:00.

Answer : B (16:3c, 16:6g, 16:12)

36. When is it permitted for “two persons” (team officials and/ or players) to enter

the court?

A. During a time out.

B. During a time out after permission from referee.

C. When a player is injured.

D. After permission from the timekeeper.

Answer : B (4:2, 4:11)