Re-entering the defensive area

[michaeldwilson]

If a team must clear the ball from the defensive area (sideline to sideline) in 10 seconds, what constitutes a re-entry foul into the defensive area?

Let's say a clearing player steps into the defensive box on the sideline side, then steps out, and then re-enters the box, then this is not a foul?

But if he does this on the centerline side, then it is a foul?

Mike

[JUSLAXIN]

THe count is out of the defensive zone. Thats from the restraining line. If the ball is turned over above the restraining line (between the restraining line and the mid field line) then you can move the ball into the defensive area.

If the ball is turned over in the defensive zone and advanced above the restraining line and then the player reenters the defensive zone then an in and out foul occurs.

[LaxRef]

Originally posted by michaeldwilson
If a team must clear the ball from the defensive area (sideline to sideline) in 10 seconds, what constitutes a re-entry foul into the defensive area?

Let's say a clearing player steps into the defensive box on the sideline side, then steps out, and then re-enters the box, then this is not a foul?

But if he does this on the centerline side, then it is a foul?

I'm not sure what you mean by "box" here since that usually refers to the attack area, which is not relevant to illegal reentry. There is no "defensive box," just the defensive clearing area, also known as Zone 1. [The area from the endline to the defensive clearning line is referred to be officials as "Zone 1" when a team is clearing. The area from the DCL to the centerline is "Zone 2."] Also, "centerline" side is not clear.

If you carry the ball out of Zone 1 and get both feet out, the count stops. If you step back in, or pass it in, that's illegal reentry *unless* the ball becomes loose (by contact only in NCAA) or unless the other team gains possession first [EXCEPTION: if your team is awarded possession, the player awarded possession can throw or pass the ball back one time, at which point the Zone 1 count begins].

If you throw the ball out and it breaks the plane of the DCL, the count stops. If the clearing team reenters (steps on or inside the DCL), it's a turnover. The call is "illegal re-entry," with the same hand signal used for illegal reentry of the crease.

Here's the NCAA rule:

Note: The defensive/clearing-team player can carry or throw the ball back
across the defensive-area line only one time if the ball was put in play outside
the defensive-area line. If the ball was put in play behind the defensive-area
line, it cannot be carried or thrown back into that area, once cleared, unless B
gained possession, or unless the ball becomes loose from contact, which would
result in a play-on.

[michaeldwilson]

Got it.

By "box" I meant the "goal area," but I see that's not relevant when it comes to whether a team clears the ball from its defensive area.

Thanks,

Mike