Quote:
Originally Posted by bob jenkins
What are a coach's options (if any) when he thinks a rule was misapplied? For example, if a player contacts the cables from the net to the pole (no disputing the facts here), and the coach thinks the call (or no call) was wrong -- can he ask that the rule book be consulted? If he does, should the R agree to it? OR do we just play on with the call and then hopefully both parties look it up afterward and someone learns something?
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I think it depends on if the rule code allows for a protest. If the rule code allows for a protest of a misapplication of the rule, as soon as the coach uses the term protest and that protest is determined to be a misapplication of the rule, rather than a judgment call (which is not protestable) the officials should consult the rule book.
Even the net cable issue can become complicated. Let's use the example you mentioned, a player is called for contacting the net cable (USAV rules). The first question the coach should ask is for an explanation of the call. What was the call and why was it called. If the official indicates the player contacted the net cable and it interfered with play, this is not protestable, as in the officials judgment, there was interference. If the explanation was simply that the player contacted the net cable, then the coach could protest the call. Since the rule allows for contact outside the antenna, then there is no violation.