Originally Posted by Rob1968 (Post 883660)

I was told, years ago, to not let the players, around the circle, stand with a foot behind an opponent.
Also, several of the High Schools in our area have a decorative circle surrounding the Center Circle, that is about 18 inches wide. It's common for the non-jumpers to stay behind that circle, rather than approaching the actual 6' radius circle. I usually tell them they can stand at the actual circle.

Originally Posted by HokiePaul (Post 883521)

I remember our rules interpreter teaching jump ball administration. He taught us the rules (e.g. that "non-jumpers shall not move onto the center restraining circle" or "change position around the center restraining circle") but he also indicated that he had no problem with using "hold your spots" prior to the jump ball.

He considered it acceptable "preventative" officiating to avoid having to call a jump ball violation to start the game and to get the game underway without incident. If someone backs directly off of the restraining circle (legal), you just don't call a violation. Much like an official may verbally warn someone to "stay out of the lane" to avoid making a marginal call. Of course you don't have to "stay out of the lane" -- it's not technically correct. But it can be helpful at times.

Originally Posted by voiceoflg (Post 883540)

Wow. I have either seen officials tell players to do this or have seen players do this on their own every time. So I assumed it was in the rules.

I'll know better next time I broadcast a game. This is why I love this board. Thanks.