The Technical Area
Learning for all of us involved in the game
The Technical Area is a place where everyone involved in the game comes to learn about the what makes this game great. Players, Parents, Coaches and Referees all come together to learn and grow.
NCYSA and Carolina Referee Organization have partnered to provide everyone involved in the game of soccer in NC. In this section we’ll provide Question and Answers from IFAB and FIFA that explain what different
For Parents, Players and Coaches
We will provide explanations on different scenarios and Q&A about what is expected by the Laws of the Game and how referees will make their decisions in certain moments of the match.
We will also dive a little deeper into referee decision making and give our thoughts on what you may actually see referees do in your local matches and why it may be that way. Because that way may not be the text book way that we explain it here. Local referees are still learning, are not paid when they take training on their own and, most importantly, are human.
You must also make note that because you’ve taken the time to read this as a parent, player or coach does not mean you can go out and tell referees how they’re out there getting it wrong. This page is meant to build knowledge, foster mutual respect and, hopefully, have a little fun.
For Referees
This page is meant to add to your knowledge of the game. We’ll post IFAB, FIFA, USSF and PRO expectations as well as our own thoughts. Taken in a little each time you visit this page but don’t overwhelm yourself. Nobody learned the entire book on the Laws of The Game in one sitting, one week or one year.
Learn what technical answers to certain scenarios are and learn where there is no black and white answer.
We’ll even post some about why coaches or player may react in certain ways during a game. It’s important to understand why a player may get frustrated and when a coach is being passionate vs showing dissent or showing a moment of frustration instead of continuing dissent.
This page is meant to build knowledge, foster mutual respect and, hopefully, have a little fun.
Practical Advice for Match Officials: (See the picture to the right)
What is the correct decision if a player prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball?
Because there is a new 8 Second Law for Goal Keepers in 2025 let’s start with some Practical advice about what happens when a GK is prevented from punting, throwing or kicking the ball from their hands after making a save.
Technical Answer: The Referee should award an Indirect Free Kick (IDFK) to the attacking team.
Practical Answer: Award an Indirect Free Kick (IDFK) to the Goal Keeper’s team and make sure everyone on the field knows that what the player did to prevent the GK from playing the ball was not okay and you did not like it.
Common Misconception: Many people, referees, players and more, often think that a Yellow Card must be given in this situation. That is incorrect. The only time you need to give a Yellow Card is if this Stops a Promising Attack or causes additional problems or confrontations to players.
