REPLY: Though the word "unacceptable" might be a little strong, yes, I do think it's not really appropriate for the official to be offering the coach options for <b><u>how</u></b> to put the ball in play. The only thing I <u>will</u> ask him is where (between the inbounds lines) he wants the ball placed since that is really part of the process after a fair catch or awarded fair catch. I do believe the onus is on the coach to know his options, and our responsibility is to ensure that he operates within those options. But again...that's just an opinion. Others may feel differently.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by ljudge
[B] Our position representative told me he offers the full range of choices when the ball is at or inside K's 30 which would be a 40-yard field goal if R elects to free kick. Some officials are of the opinion that a coach should know this rule and when to ask for a free kick with the opinion that the R was "helping" the receiving team in this situation by informing the coach of this rule. I disagree with this and like what my rep told me. I would give the entire explanation when inside K's 30 and I would tell the captain if he accepted the penalty I would then give him the choice to snap or free kick the ball. And, <B>I</b> would give the choice to the captain.

Good discussion by all. I tend to agree with ljudge, but I can also envision some captains just staring at you with that "duh, what do you mean I have an option?" look.

Anyway, I'm going to bring this up in our rules meetings later this summer to see how our association wants to handle it.