Quote:
Originally posted by Nevadaref
I believe that this thread has provided a worthwhile discussion so far. The only thing that I wish to add is the text of the actual definition of verticality. I've highlighted some parts which we've touched upon so far. Every once in a while it is good to put some of these phrases at the forefront of our minds. I have two games this evening and I know that I'll go into them thinking about this.
For me the crucial question is does the defender have to position or extend his arms into the vertical space prior to the offensive player putting his arms there in order to be protected from being charged with a foul by the principle of verticality?
Perhaps more directly stated, is it a foul for the defender to wait until the offensive player has extended his arms into the vertical space above the defender and then shoot his arms up into that space thereby making contact with the offensive player?
The way I read the rule below, my answer is yes to both.
RULE 4
SECTION 45 VERTICALITY
Verticality applies to a legal position. The basic components of the principle of verticality are:
ART. 1 . . . Legal guarding position must be obtained initially and movement thereafter must be legal.
ART. 2 . . . From this position, the defender may rise or jump vertically and occupy the space within his/her vertical plane.
ART. 3 . . . The hands and arms of the defender may be raised within his/her vertical plane while on the floor or in the air.
ART. 4 . . . The defender should not be penalized for leaving the floor vertically or having his/her hands and arms extended within his/her vertical plane.
ART. 5 . . . The offensive player whether on the floor or airborne, may not clear out or cause contact within the defender's vertical plane which is a foul.
ART. 6 . . . . The defender may not belly up or use the lower part of the body or arms to cause contact outside his/her vertical plane which is a foul.
ART. 7 . . . The player with the ball is to be given no more protection or consideration than the defender in judging which player has violated the rules.
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I think you make an interesting point based on the language of 4-45-1. One could infer that there is some timing component to 'legal guarding position' of the arms - but, wouldn't you agree, 4-45-1 is really the rule which sets the standard for feet and torso?
Other than that, I don't see a basis for, and see every reason against, allowing an offensive player to 'invade' the defender's space - anymore than, when a defender leans over an offensive player, I call the foul on the player who wants to straighten up.