Coaching Boxes

[Nevadaref]

Originally posted by Jurassic Referee

Schools can't decide what size to make the coaching boxes. Only state associations can- i.e. the MHSSAA for Michigan. That was referred to in the 2001-02 rule change. Schools are only allowed to set the actual location of each team's bench.

Ok, JR, I'll have to agree with that nuance. But is doesn't change my main point; which is that the NFHS Rules Book no longer provides a standard length for a coaching box. Anything between zero and fourteen will do.

I will add though that the distinction between SCHOOLS and the STATE ASSN can differ greatly from one area to another. Out here our schools created and hired an office known as the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA). This body is charged with scheduling and administering all athletic contests between the member schools. However, these people work for the schools, and the SCHOOLS are still really the boss. If they want something, they tell the NIAA and they get it. This is why we went to 14' last season and do NOT have a mercy rule. So while I should have phrased it differently in my earlier post, it amounts to the same thing out here.

As for Mick,
"...may use the six-foot coaching box as described in National Federation Basketball Rules, effective 1996-97."
This is exactly what I am saying no longer exists.

The 2004-05 NFHS Basketball Rules Book does not describe a six-foot coaching box. It describes one that is "no more than 14 feet." Why is Michigan referencing the old 1996-97 book? I would bet that most officials don't even have a copy of that book anymore! I know I don't as that was my first season of officiating HS ball and I didn't keep my books when I left DC. Does the MHSAA plan any future "official" handouts that reference something from a old book up in MTD's attic?

Obviously they should be writing something to the effect of "may use the coaching box described in the current NFHS Rules Book."