Retracting a Penalty Decision

[Rich]

Originally Posted by ajmc

NF:2-32-5-c, clearly designates the "Captain" to "represent his team during: (c) Penalty decisions following a foul". NF:10-1, states, "a captain's decision may not be revoked".

Although it's fairly common practice to explain penalty options to a captain, within earshot of his coach who may subsequently advise the captain on what decision to make, at the NFHS level, the actual choice should be made by the captain. Although the captain may be delivering the preferences and instructions of the coach (100%) the actual official decision should be delivered by the captain.

Rulebook officiating lacking common sense.

On complex penalties or when I'm close to the team bench, I ask the coach every time. It's quicker and leaves no room for the kid screwing it up.

Rule #1: Do not let the kid screw up by making the wrong choice.