[Andy]

In the ASA rulebook, there are two rules that address time limits. I don't have the book handy, so I cannot provide the references, but the paraphrased version of each is:

1. Time limits may be used.
2. Tactics used to hasten or delay the game may result in forfeiture of the game by the team using said tactics.

Since the rulebook does not provide much information on how to deal with the administration of time limits, it's left up to the local areas or tournaments to establish their own guidelines. The best advice is to contact your local UIC and ask how time limits will be administered in your area. That being said, here are some of my personal comments.

The rule does not differentiate between "illegal" and "legal" tactics, so requesting a perfectly legal conference could be a way to delay or hasten the game.

The penalty for this infraction is quite severe, so be very judicious about using it.

Often, a quick word to the coach will get the point across; "Coach, are you aware of the penalty for trying to stall so the time will run out?" This may have been the way to go in the situation you described.

I have had UICs tell me that I had the authority to stop the clock if I felt a coach or team was stalling.

I will use an element of judgement when dealing with injuries at any point in a timed game. Initially, the clock will continue to run. If I feel that it is going to take more than a few minutes to treat the injury or the player cannot be removed from the field, then I will stop the clock.

As I said, these are personal observations based on the way we do things in my area. They may or may not work for you in your area. There have been several discussions on this and other boards about dealing with time limits. If you want to look around a bit, you will probably find more information.