Valid Fair Catch Signal
 

The rule... NFHS

Rule 2-9-3 ... A valid fair-catch signal is the extending and lateral waving of one arm, at full length above the head, by any member of the receiving team.

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I have always thought that one wave side to side (lateral) of the arm fully extended about the head is a sufficient signal. There seems to be some
disagreement about whether this is sufficient. Some seem to think that waving implies multiple side to side movements.

Anyway, I have asked various officials in my local association and so far they are all in agreement that one wave left to right OR right to left is sufficient and valid.

It may be a local thing but around here a wave to someone else is generally just a swipe of the hand in one direction and that person is considered to be waving at you.

I also did a search on fair catch signal using google and found that the description of a valid signal by some at least just says side to side.

Anyway, I don't think it is a huge deal either way if the Back Judge explains exactly what he wants to see from the receivers.

Just putting it out there for discussion.

Back and forth twice is sufficient. I would accept once but I tell the returners twice. I would try to avoid a flag at all costs.

The B should tell them EVERY TIME, "arm up high and wave back and forth." That takes care of it and as Grant said, "don't go looking to throw your flag." You know what you are looking for, so if you see it, blow it dead.