I concur with BulldogMcC. Last year Illinois really stressed keeping coaches off the field, but then did not really have it strictly enforce it during the playoffs. This year our officials' association, Southwestern Athletic Officials' Association, had a clinic in conjunction with the mandatory Rules meeting. At this clinic, we invited some local coaches, one of which has a long reputation of being on the field during the game. The coaches were asked their opinion. They stated that sometimes they get caught up in the moment, and unknowingly enter the field. They stated that as long as they do not interfere with the official's performance,then they should not be penalized. Most of the wing official's in our association agreed, that out of sight out of mind for warning/penalty enforcement, but reminded the coach that this did not apply to players, nor did it give them leeway to be on the field to verbally abuse the official's calls or judgment, for out of sight does not mean out of ear shot. We also told the coaches that if they did not move back when asked by wing official, then sideline warnings or other appropriate action would be taken.
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