[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Under NFHS and NCAA rules there are four mechanics books that cover two- and three-person officiating.

NFHS 1999-2001 Officials Manual: See Paragraphs 272 (two-
person) and 377 (three-person). The wording of these two paragraphs are identical. "Sound your whistle while giving the clock-stopping signal. While moving to the reporting area, look for verification from a coach as to what type of time-out is to be charged. Within the reporting area, give the appropriate time-out signal, verbally indicate the team color, verbally and visually give the player number or head coach making the request, and instruct the timer to begin the time-out period."

The 2000-01 CCA Men's Manual for a Crew of Two is silent on the matter as to when the time-out is to stop. See Section 17, Articles 1 and 2.

The 2000-01 CCA Men's and Women's Manuals for a Crew of Three does define when the time-out starts.

CCA/Men's Section 22, Article 1: "The calling official immediately signals time-out and verbally indicates the jersey color of the team and the NUMBER OF THE PLAYER OR HEAD COACH MAKING THE REQUEST. Notify the timer to start the time-out clock when both teams are near their benches."

CCA/Women's Section 20, Article A/Full timeout, Para. 1.: "The official that recognized the timeout called by a coach or player takes the timeout to the table. Indicate whether it is a full or media timeout. Indicate the jersey color of the team and the number of the player or coach making the request. Notify the timer ot start the timeout clock when both teams are near their benches."

CCA/Women's Section 20, Article B/30 second timeout, Para. 3.: "Officials will follow the same protocol in reporting the 30 second timeout to the table as they do in a full timeout, ..."

There you have it. Under NFHS and NCAA rules, the time-out does not start until the official tells the timer to start timing the time-out.