Mandatory warm-up period

[ajmc]

Originally Posted by Wisscott

After having this happen in our second game this year, our referee emailed Wade Labecki at Stevens Point. We were directed that the three minutes are to be put on the clock immediately after halftime ends and the clock started. Flag the offending team. When they do show up, reset the clock to 3 minutes and restart it.That's the way Wisconsin wants it done. FYI

I understand, and agree, the 3 minute warm up time should be put on the clock immediately after the conclusion of the intermission. I'm confused by starting that clock to run down before both teams are back on the field.

If one team is late, they earn a penalty, but they are still entitled to a full 3 minutes warm-up period (whether that wish to use it properly, or not). If you start the warm up before the second team comes back, and at some time thereafter, when the 2nd team does return, start another 3 minute warm up, you're throwing the timing off for the team who came back properly, on time.

If the offending team came back 5 minutes late, you'd be giving the offended team two options; warm up for 8 minutes, or cool down for an additional 5 minutes after they finished their original 3 minute warm up. If you hold the warm up clock until both teams are ready to participate, apart from the issue of who fouls, both teams get 3 full minutes to warm up immediately before starting the 2nd half.