Shoelaces. A Hazard?

[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally posted by Ref Daddy
I had a coach last night that was all over me to stop the game because HIS point guard could't keep his shoes tied. (JV 8th grade boys).

Screamed that it was a saftey hazard. I did not give it.

Told my partner who supported me - I stop for contacts and glass's on the floor only (besides other specific rules). 14 year olds know how to tye. Coach has timeouts.

Comments?

I am glad you stuck to your guns. I do not want to start a riot, but you have the rule book on your side in this situation. Prior to the 1963-64 season, the rules specifically gave the officials the authority to stop the game or withold the ball from play so that a player could tie his/her shoe(s). Starting with the 1963-64 season the Rules Committee specifically deleted this section of Rule 2, because it wanted to forbid the officials from doing this. Once again, I do not want to hear from everybody who disagree with me. I know that this rule change was made almost 30 years ago, but until the Rules Committee makes a change it is still in effect.