4-second crease count

[LaxRef]

I worked with someone recently who did his 4-second crease counts out loud. This disturbed me, as I was explicitly told not to do this when I started officiating as it could be construed as coaching. In addition, the rules tell us when counts should be audible, and it doesn't say that the crease count should be. Comments?

[Bobsch]

I don't know about NCAA, etc. rules now, but it seems like they used to count them out loud (I havent played or reffed in the states for 20 years). I only play, ref, and coach by international rules and we count out loud (at least most do and that's the way I was taught). I think it is a good idea.

[stinisonfire]

As a goalie, it definetly helps. I don't think that a ref shouldn't do it; more often than not the hand signal is a factor too. I know that most refs will remind the offense when the final 2 minutes is getting near, but that could be something completely different.

[shrekjr]

I worked with someone recently who did his 4-second crease counts out loud. This disturbed me, as I was explicitly told not to do this when I started officiating as it could be construed as coaching. In addition, the rules tell us when counts should be audible, and it doesn't say that the crease count should be. Comments?
No, no, and no. The silent count also allows flexibility when necessary.

[LaxRef]

No, no, and no. The silent count also allows flexibility when necessary.

That's what I think!

[shrekjr]

You don't have a verbal 20 count, or a verbal 10 count. Of course, we have the beeper for the 20 count, but we've been told if the player is close and making an attempt to get into the box we when we reach the 10 count, to keep counting and give him another second or two since everyone counts at a different pace. However, we do need to make sure our counts are close to accurate and not giving as much as two seconds per count!

[LaxRef]

You don't have a verbal 20 count, or a verbal 10 count. Of course, we have the beeper for the 20 count, but we've been told if the player is close and making an attempt to get into the box we when we reach the 10 count, to keep counting and give him another second or two since everyone counts at a different pace. However, we do need to make sure our counts are close to accurate and not giving as much as two seconds per count!

And I know there are guys out there who count at a 20-second pace for a 10-count.

[laxfan25]

In the olden days the 4 second count was done verbally, but now it is just the hand count. I will admit that at lower-level (MS) games I will sometimes verbalize the count to let the goalie know what's up.

[_SLY_]

I agree. Verbal count allows too much to be anticipated by both the goalie and the riding offensemen.

[CoachRob]

I believe the mechanics call for a silent four count, with hand gestures every second of the count. No verbal counts needed.

[LaxRef]

I believe the mechanics call for a silent four count, with hand gestures every second of the count. No verbal counts needed.

Is there a standard, or can I make up my own hand gestures to do each second? :idea:

[CoachRob]

Is there a standard, or can I make up my own hand gestures to do each second? :idea:

Now, Now LR. You know the standard is the 45 degree angle chopping motion. AKA Tomahawk chop.

Don't be funnin' with me about this CRITICAL, LIFE CHANGING stuff. :imparied:

BTW, it is BEAUTIFUL weather here in central PA. Not too hot or cool, the grass is nice and green, and the lax boys are getting into shape. What more could we, as Lax lovers, ask for?

I have a great new idea for a reality show: The "Next Best Lax Official", with LR, Snake, and eme playing the parts of Randy, Simon and Paula, and I could play the role of Ryan Seacrest (sp?) interviewing the candidates about their mechanics and what not. This would be better than most of the junk on TV currently.

[LaxRef]

BTW, it is BEAUTIFUL weather here in central PA. Not too hot or cool, the grass is nice and green, and the lax boys are getting into shape. What more could we, as Lax lovers, ask for?

To not be injured?

I have a great new idea for a reality show: The "Next Best Lax Official", with LR, Snake, and eme playing the parts of Randy, Simon and Paula, and I could play the role of Ryan Seacrest (sp?) interviewing the candidates about their mechanics and what not. This would be better than most of the junk on TV currently.

You say that like it's some sort of accomplishment.

[cslaxplaya11]

as a defender i like the count allowed beacuse i kno when i have to turn around to catch the ball from the golie on the clears.

[aviator]

4 sec crease count?

[LaxRef]

4 sec crease count?

Once a defensive player gains possession of the ball inside the crease (the circle around the goal) he has 4 seconds to run or pass the ball out (unless he inadvertently loses possession).

[Woodenstick]

"Now, Now LR. You know the standard is the 45 degree angle chopping motion. AKA Tomahawk chop."

I have been doing my counts at a 90 degree angle, horizontal to my waist, and I just checked the rule book and it DOES show a 45 degree angle is correct. Yet another mechanical error corrected!

[ploaref]

and to be clear...if the GK loses possession inadvertantly in the crease, then regains possession while still in the crease, there is a new 4-count started.

Of course, the original 20-second count is still running...