Horn Puzzler

[eme]

Here's a question for which no rulebooks nor any mechanics manual I've seen will provide an answer for.

When might an OFFICIAL ask for a horn to allow subs that doesn't involve sideline out of bounds or penalties or anything else stated in the rulebook?

[MElaxRef]

I would allow regular substitution following a mistake by me or my crew, when correction of the mistake changes possession.

For example, most officials have pointed the wrong way after a whistle deep in the attack area. Both coaches then substitute their clearing / riding packages into the game. Then the light goes on and the official realizes the mistake. Best practice is to call for a horn to allow both teams to get the right players back into the game.

[eme]

BINGO!

I think I would also do it when I have stopped play for a goalie equipment problem.
Give him time to get off/fix quickly/sub another goalie, etc. AND provide the other team the courtesy of subbing, too. But I have had only one goalie equipment stoppage, ever.....

[BlueJaysLaxFan]

I saw this done during the playoffs last spring and thought that this was a great mechanic to follow for pointing the wrong way, especially during the season when this type of mistake could possibly influence the outcome of the game.

[massref]

I had a a close rivalry game in the 4th quarter where the crowd was so loud that I could not hear the coaches even while working the near sideline. I met with the coaches and told both of them that if they wanted a time out they would have to use the horn. It worked.