Shifting gears, NFHS/USSF

[bainsey]

GV pre-season yesterday (NFHS of course), two-man crew.

On my end of the field, an attacker, defender, and keeper all make a play on the ball in the penalty area. Keeper gets control of the ball, while the attacker goes down hurt (incidental, no foul).

Doing only USSF games since last November, my immediate reaction is to yell, "Keeper! Get rid of the ball!" She throws it to the touchline, but it stays a yard in bounds. Great. Tweet.

After the injured player was replaced, the only option I had was a drop ball. Before dropping, I reminded the offensive player that the keeper gave up this ball willingly, hoping she'd take the hint. She didn't, and immediately played the ball to a teammate, who got off a shot. (Easy save.)

Lesson learned: In NFHS, if someone is hurt, just blow the damn whistle (taking advantage into consideration, of course), especially if a keeper has possession. I have to admit, that's one NFHS rule I prefer over FIFA.