1. FEDERATION INTERNATIONALE DE VOLLEYBALL BEACH VOLLEYBALL FIVB RULES CASEBOOK

2. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKINDEX OF CASESPAGESTOPIC OF RULINGSCASES 1-77PART I - CASES 1.1-10.282-8CHAPTER 1: FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT1.1-1.152-5Playing Area1.1-1.85-6Net and Posts1.9-1.116-8Ball 1.12-1.15 9-15CHAPTER 2: PARTICIPANTS2.1-2.169-9Teams 2.1-2.2 10-11 Players Equipment 2.3-2.9 12-15 Rights and Responsibilities of the Participants2.10-2.16 16-16 CHAPTER 3: POINT, SET AND MATCH WINNER3.1-3.2 16-16 Scoring System3.1-3.2 17-18 CHAPTER 4: PREPARATION OF THE MATCH, STRUCTURE OF PLAY4.1-4.4 17-18 Preparation of the Match4.1-4.3 18-18 Team line up / Players Positions4.4-4.4 19-39 CHAPTER 5: PLAYING ACTIONS5.1-5.53 19-23 States of Play5.1-5.8 23-23 Playing Faults5.9-5.9 23-27 Playing the Ball 5.10-5.19 27-28 Ball at the Net5.20-5.21 28-32 Player at the Net5.22-5.32 32-37 Service5.33-5.45 37-38 Attack Hit 5.46-5.50 38-39 Block5.51-5.53 40-47 CHAPTER 6: TIME OUTS AND DELAYS 6.1-6.20 40-40 Timeouts6.1-6.3 41-42 Delays to the Game6.4-6.8 42-46 Exceptional Game Interruptions6.9-6.18 46-47 Court Switches and Intervals 6.19-6.20 48-52 CHAPTER 7: MISCONDUCT 7.1-7.12 48-52 Misconduct7.1-7.12 53-59 CHAPTER 8: REFEREEING CORPS AND PROCEDURES 8.1-8.18 53-53 Refereeing Corps and Procedures 8.1-8.1 53-54 First Referee 8.2-8.3 54-56 Second Referee8.4-8.9 56-57 Scorer 8.10-8.11 57-58 Linejudge8.12-8.14 58-59 Officials Signals 8.15-8.18 60-67 CHAPTER 9: SPECIAL CASES9.1-9.18 68-77 CHAPTER 10: SCORERS CASES10.1-10.28 78-84 PART II TERMINOLOGYI 3. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKINTRODUCTIONWelcome to the 2010 Edition of the Beach Volleyball Casebook, which once again I have the pleasure to provide you withhoping that it will add to your knowledge of Beach Volleyball rules and officiating.This Casebook is part of the overall package that forms the foundation of Beach Volleyball officiating references and shouldbe used as a complement to the Rules of the Game, the Refereeing Guidelines and the various Protocols.Beach Volleyball has developed tremendously in the last two decades and into the new millennium, spreading throughoutthe world through effective marketing and promotion and the influence of the Swatch-FIVB World Tour and FIVB BeachVolleyball World Championships properties. The creation of new FIVB Beach Volleyball competitions (Continental BeachVolleyball Cup and FIVB Beach Volleyball World Cup Olympic Qualification) will be an important tool for the development ofthe discipline of Beach Volleyball since it is meant to involve all Continental Confederations and at least 150 affiliatedNational Federations.With this rapid growth not only in promotion, organization and technical aspects changes have come in the rules.Continuous rally scoring plus smaller court maintains spectator excitement and game drama. New rules, attractive look;vibrant ball colours bring a new era to the game making it more dramatic and entertaining than ever before.For the game to maintain its impetus as a sport that can appeal to the general public, while maintaining its unique outdoorimage and marketability, consistency in application of the rules world- wide becomes increasingly important. This is theprincipal reason for publishing a first edition of the Official Beach Volleyball Casebook, to aid the consistent application ofthe rules of Beach Volleyball.Message from Mr. Sinjin Smith, member of the FIVB BeachVolleyball CommissionThe rules of the beach game are meant to create fair play. In todays commercial world we must also make the game asinteresting as we can to the public, particularly the television public. This said we must not destroy the integrity of the gamein doing so.The objectives of our rules after we have accomplished fair play is to keep the referee out of the game as much aspossible, to allow the personality of the players to come out during the game, to keep the game moving and interesting tothe public.The beach game has been very lucky in so far as the FIVB has made it possible to make necessary changes when neededto benefit this fast growing and ever changing sport. II 4. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKPlayers perspectives on the Rules CasebookThis book is a serious contribution to the understanding of the game, forboth players and referees, as well as anybody else who loves BeachVolleyball.Always interesting, sometimes amusing, it was great fun to read! Marrit LeenstraFIVB Women PlayerThe Beach Volleyball Rules Casebook is a fantastic summary of unusual and special incidents that have happened in ourbeloved sport. The Casebook analyses each incident and discusses the issues around it to provide a helping hand for allreferees whether experienced or inexperienced to solve critical situations in a professional way before, during and after thematch. The cases also provide support and information for players, media and fans to understand and follow the way decision making process is made by the referees. Enjoy the game!Sascha HeyerFIVB Men Athletes Representative III 5. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKCONTEXT FOR OFFICIATINGREFEREES apply the Rules of the Game. Officiating at Beach Volleyball events requires constant awareness to a changeand / or interpretation of the official Beach Volleyball rules. For the correct application of the rules, REFEREES must knowthem faultlessly and apply them decisively and correctly within the context of the game.The rules must reflect the demands of the development of the sport. When they are formulated and / or modified, thefollowing factors should naturally be taken into consideration:Technical and tactical developmentSpectacularityPublicity, marketing and promotionFinancial requirementsCultural, recreational and societal changesREFEREES must be able to take correct decisions with authority whenever a situation arises which is not specificallyclarified in the rules. REFEREES should have a complete knowledge of the theoretical Refereeing guidelines and of thegeneral functions of the rules, which:Define the characteristics of the gameDefine proper techniquesAllow the game to be played safely under fair conditionsEncourage sportsmanshipEncourage top performance and spectacularityAllow a game that can be marketed and promoted wellThis will allow REFEREES to work much more accurately and follow the spirit of the rules.PERFORMANCE OF OFFICIALSThe FIVB Refereeing Delegate is responsible for all Refereeing issues and reports to the FIVB Technical Supervisor. TheFIVB Refereeing Delegate will work to instruct, facilitate the work of and provide feedback to officials working in variouscapacities.Referees also work under close co-ordination with the Refereeing Manager at a given event. Together with the Host TVBroadcaster, Promoter and other Officials, they must also ensure that production and organizational needs of television aremet. These include match protocol, TV replays, official photographer and TV camera positions on the field of play.IV 6. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKAlthough Beach Volleyball is a modality of Volleyball, there are fundamental differences in the playing numbers, techniquesof the players, match formats and nature of the conditions, which guide the differences in the rules between these twogames. Therefore, there are REFEREEING techniques, interpretations, protocols and situations, which are different.REFEREES must understand these clearly.In conclusion, REFEREES not only have to perform their duties and direct the match according to the rules and its spirit,but their REFEREEING performance is also governed by contributing factors such as health (physical and mental), legalfactors (health and safety laws, drug testing and Code of Conduct)and social factors which are not purely technical innature. REFEREES should always remember that they are not only there to officiate, they are also a teacher, promoter andadministrator and may be required to assist the Referee Delegate if requested. They in this way have a delegatedresponsibility to act in the best interests of the FIVB and its various stakeholders. REFEREES should be closely aware ofthese factors, conduct their duties, following ethical considerations both on and off the court, while also directing the matchaccordingly under the rules.V 7. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKTHIS CASEBOOKIn publishing the FIVB Rules Casebook for Beach Volleyball, it is anticipated that the book will be of great assistance andwill be widely used to bring into play the task of unifying the world wide application of the Rules of Beach VolleyballThis Casebook is a collection of situations each with official rulings approved by the FIVB Refereeing Commissioner, andthe FIVB Beach Volleyball Permanent Committee. The rulings are intended to clarify the spirit and meaning of the officialBeach Volleyball Rules and are the official interpretations to be followed during all sanctioned competitions.It is hoped that this publication of a Casebook will assist referees and beach volleyballers to better understand the rulesand their application.This is a revised edition based on the first edition completed in 1998 and updated for the rule changes from then onenforced. It corresponds to the latest edition of the FIVB Beach Volleyball Rules of the Game posted at the FIVB website athttp://www.fivb.org/EN/BeachVolleyball/Rules/rules.htmThe FIVB RULES CASEBOOK FOR BEACH VOLLEYBALL is originally written by Mr. Andrew Hercus. The 2010 edition isthe responsibility of Mr. Jose Casanova (FIVB Beach Volleyball Refereeing Commissioner) assisted by the currently activeFIVB Referee Delegates, and has been added 9 new cases from 2005 onwards (2.13; 2.14; 5.5; 5.6; 5.29; 5.32; 7.12; 9.18;e 10.28).NOTES The teams have been identified by country code e.g.: USA and mens and womens (M), (W). Neither individualplayers nor specific tournaments are identified although most of the cases come from FIVB World Tour events. Where further description is required players are described #1 and #2 depending on the case. The words Supervisor(s) are used generically to indicate either the Technical Supervisor or Referee Delegate Cases related to ball mark protocol and the money fine sanction scale have been adjusted to the currentspecific regulations.Any questions regarding this Casebook should be sent to the following E-mail address:Mr. Jose Casanova: jcasanova@netmadeira.com VI 8. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKPART I:CASES 1 9. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK CHAPTER 1FACILITIES AND PLAYING EQUIPMENTPLAYING AREA1.1 In a match between ARG and INA (M), the playersThe referees are correct in taking this action. Playersdiscover a large piece of wood under the sand in the safety is an important consideration at all times.middle of the playing court. The referee stops play andquickly allows the object to be removed; the sand is Referees must continually check the playing court andlevelled and the court checked before play is resumed. Isequipment and take corrective action if anything unsafe isthis correct handling of this situation? discovered. Referees must know the location of the court staff, approved equipment, accredited medical staff etc to ensure quick and effective responses to such situations. Additionally linejudges play an important part in checking the condition of the playing area during a match. Players safety is an important aspect of all officials work. The Supervisor can temporarily authorize a playing court not to be used, if it is not safe (e.g. large object under sand requiring extensive digging).1.2 During their prematch inspection of the court theThe referees are correct in delaying the start of the match.referees notice that there were exposed metal anchors at The match should not commence until the playing courtthe corner lines and exposed metal wires securing the netand equipment is safe for the players. This must beand post. The referee delayed the match until both pieceschecked prior to the commencement of play, being part ofof equipment had been protected. Is this the correct a referees prematch inspection of the equipment andhandling of this situation?playing court.1.3 During an exciting rally the player of CAN (M) Play should not continue, as the court does not complysuccessfully dives to retrieve the ball. In making this play with Rule 1.1.1. Additionally the court lines and anchors stthe line is strongly pulled and the anchors are removedmay now present a danger to the player(s). The 1 refereefrom the ground in one corner. The court is now irregular in should immediately whistle and call a replay if there is anyshape. Should the referee allow play to continue?chance that the ball will remain in play.1.4 During the match ITA vs. FRA (M), the ITA player runsThe referees in their prematch inspection of the courtto recover a ball near the sideline. In making this play his should have found this danger to the players. 2 10. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKfoot contacts a metal anchor just under the sand, which hasbeen used to secure the court lines. The resulting injurymeans that the player is unable to continue the match. Metal anchors are illegal to secure lines under anyWhat should the referees have done, in order to potentially circumstance. Prior to the match, referees must check allavoid this situation? the playing court and equipment, especially the lines, playing surface, poles, referees chair and signage for potential danger. This injury could have been prevented by correct preventative action by the referees.1.5 At the start of a mens World Tour match CHI v ARG The referee should initially verify the accuracy of the teams request allowing the raking to take place if thethe teams state to the 1st referee that the court has not players are correct.been correctly raked and levelled between matches and Playing areas should be raked and levelled betweenthat it presents a danger to both teams. What should be thematches as much as possible concentrating on theresponse of the referee? following areas: (1) Area around net (1-2 metres) (2) Service reception area (3) Court lines (both inside and outside by 1 metre) (4) Service area especially after jump serving Raking should take place during a match only if a significant danger is apparent to the players. Because an unraked court is not necessarily dangerous, each situation must be judged on its individual merits. Referees should ensure that the preparation of the court is properly completed before commencing the match especially ensuring that the match conditions are equal for both teams.1.6 The RUS (M) team was playing on a court that had The 1st referee must not authorize service but should insistsponsorship signage at the back of both service lines. that the player move inside the line of the signage.However it was not completely surrounding the back of the The player can not serve from outside the free zone evencourt on one side. The RUS player went back to serve. He though in this case it is not completely regular in shape.walked between the signs and stood outside the line of thestsignage, waiting for authorization to serve. Should the 1 Both teams should be treated equally in respect of thereferee authorize service? potential size of their service zone. 3 11. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKThe referee should recommend to the Supervisor (whoauthorizes the court staff) that this situation be correctedso that the service zone for both teams in equal in size andlies between 5 and 6m from the court lines. It must besymmetrical in nature.The referee(s) must remember that the decision to1.7 In a World Tour match the players of both teams AUSstcompletelystop playingis usually made by theand USA (W) approach the 1 referee requesting that shetournaments Supervisor(s). Therefore a referee should instop play due to the strong rain. What are the proceduresthese circumstances:the referee(s) should follow in making this decision?(1) Continue play until the Supervisor makes a cleardecision to stop play (not the players).(2) Authorize requests such as a Timeout.(3) Request the use of additional equipment such astowels, protective coverings and balls to enable thematch to continue.(4) Stop play and ask the players to return to theirdesignated chairs only if there is a significant danger tothe players from thunder, sudden wind gusts etc or theSupervisors are unavailable.1.8 During the pre match protocol a player from USA (M) There are a number of factors to consider in this situation.strequests that the 1 referee authorise the watering of theFirstly while it is a 1st referees responsibility to consider thecourt before the match starts. The referee declines thissafety of players (e.g.: condition of the court) therequest considering that the court is in acceptable playingSupervisor is required to make a final authorisation oncondition. Later during the set the same USA player leavessome areas that potentially delay or change the pace ofthe playing area without permission of the officials and thenthe game significantly (watering of court in protocol, timeproceeds to utilise a watering hose to water only his side ofbetween rallies, shifting the sand etc).the court (upon returning to the court). What actions shouldthe officials take in this circumstance?Before the match has commenced the 1st referee shouldrequest that the Supervisor authorise the watering of thecourt.During the match any watering of the court can be dealtwith by the referee within the time between sets / timeout /4 12. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKTechnical Timeout but it should be conducted so as to notdelay the match and should benefit equally both teams.The USA player should be sanctioned (assuming no priordelay sanctions) initially for ignoring the requests of thereferees (Delay Warning) and then subsequently fordelaying the match by watering the court (Delay Penalty).In this complex case the 1st referee should request that theSupervisor should come to the court. NET AND POSTS1.9 During the official warm up the team of RSA (M) The referees should between matches have verified therequests that the referees verify the height of the net. Howheight of the net.should the referees respond to this request?Many net systems are free standing and easily altered bypeople pulling down on the net.Referees should understand different heights, tensionsystems and construction of net systems.1.10 In a match between RSA and USA (M), at the score 0-The referee is correct in these actions, as there is no way3, the USA captain tells the 1st referee that the net height is to determine exactly when the net height was originallyincorrect and requests that it be checked. After having incorrect. There however, should have been a check of thechecked the net, the height is found to be 3 centimetres toonet height prior to the start of the match to reduce the5 13. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKlow, in the centre. The 1st referee asks the court manager likelihood of this problem occurring. The 1st referee hasto fix the net height and subsequently the match iscorrectly stopped the match to fix the incorrect net height, stresumed with no change to the score. Was the 1 referee as play cannot continue with a net that has been verified ascorrect in these actions?being non-regulation in height. It is good officiating practice in most circumstances to consider the players request as legitimate. No, it is not compulsory for the 1st referee to undertake the1.11 During the 2001 Goodwill Games in Brisbane, coin toss for the 3rd set. However he / she must:Australia, there was extensive TV microphones / earpieces stattached to the 1 referee. This equipment took over one (1) Have this action authorised by a Supervisor stminute to attach to / detach from the 1 referee. Under(2) Explain to the players at the first coin toss thethese circumstances is it compulsory for the 1st referee tosituationundertake the toss prior to the 3rd and deciding set given nd The 2 referee must ensure that they follow the correctthe potential time delays it would create? procedures for the 3rd set coin toss and have the necessary equipment (coin). BALL1.12 In a World Tour (M/W) Tournament in Hermosa, USA, This isa correct interpretation. Under exceptional10 playing courts were used. Due to a low number ofcircumstances this is allowable, providing it is approved byauxiliary officials and a shortage of balls some courts used the Tournament Supervisor and is consistently appliedonly a 1-ball system instead of a 3-ball system. Is this a during the match (es).correct interpretation of the rules? The referees should have discussed this decision with the Tournament Supervisor before implementing this decision, after having exhausted other alternative solutions. It should be implemented before, not during a match. The 1 ball system should be clearly explained to the players, especially what to do with the ball between rallies. Referees should not allow one team to use this situation to alter the pace of the match especially prolonging the time between rallies beyond 12 seconds.1.13 In Brazilian Tournaments during the month ofReferees must ensure that the ball does not get exposed toFebruary the temperatures are often very hot. The playersdirect sun for long periods, thus significantly altering itsoften request that the referees check the pressure of thepressure. Balls will naturally change pressure during theball. What should the referees do to avoid this problem? day with changes in the heat so the following should be 6 14. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKchecked, before each match:(1) The location of the reserve balls should be dry and notin direct sunlight for long periods of time.(2) The pressure must be checked prior to the match andbe consistent for all balls including reserve balls.(3) A pressure gauge, manual pump, and a valve shouldbe available.(4) Balls should be clearly labelled / signed so that theycan be grouped with other similar balls(5) The ball pressure should initially be set at the lowerend of the scale (195-200 hPa)(6) A rotation of balls during an individual match may beused in exceptional circumstances.1.14 In Asian Tournaments during the monsoon (wet Referees must ensure that the ball does not get very wet orseason) play is often affected by rain. What should a moist, thus altering its pressure and weight.referee do so that the ball pressure and weight remainThe following should be checked both before the matchconstant?and during the match:(1) Number of balls available: - the number of balls mayneed to be increased, (e.g.: to 5) allowing them to be driedas often as possible.(2) Location of the reserve balls: -should be dry and not indirect sunlight.(3) Towels should be used by the ball retrievers especiallythose near the server.(4) A pressure gauge, manual pump, valve, and scalesshould be available.(5) Bags or other protective items should be available toprotect the balls.(6) A rotation of balls during an individual match may beused in exceptional circumstances.(7) The balls pressure and condition should be checkedoften during the day.1.15 During a match at the 2002 Asian Games, the 2ndIt is clearly the 2nd referees responsibility to oversee thereferee notices that there are 4 balls being utilised by theprocess of utilisation of match balls. The 2nd refereendball retrievers. The 2 referee chooses one of the balls should:and places it on the scorers table. Later in the match one of(1) Initially check that three match balls are ready tothe match balls flies over the grandstand and lands in thebe used at the start of the matchnearby sea. The 2nd referee then replaces the wet match7 15. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKball with the reserve ball and the match resumes. What (2) Once play has started monitor the system beingprocedures should a 2nd referee follow in monitoring theused by the ball retrievers and oversee carefullyreserve balls both before and during a match?the situation where a new ball needs to beintroduced. A new ball should only be used withthe permission of a match official (3) If a reserve ball is no longer suitable for play itshould not be put in a position, such that it couldenter the rotation of match balls being used (e.g.:under the scorers table) (4) Always ensure that a minimum of 1 suitablereserve ball is available If there are excessive problems in the match with a 3 ball system (e.g.: too many balls becoming unusable) the 1st referee may authorise use of a 1 ball system. 8 16. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKCHAPTER 2 PARTICIPANTSTEAMS2.1 After the whistle for the end of a timeout the BRA (W) The referee is correct in penalising the BRA team in thisteam is communicating with their coach who is outside theway. Players must not delay the match at any time. Thisfree zone. The players are slow in returning to the courtaction of delaying the game for the purpose of coaching isfrom the timeout thus delaying the match. The refereepenalized as a Delay warning or Penalty if the players havepenalizes BRA with a Delay warning. Is this correct action already received a delay warning. The referee should alsoby the referee?request for the Supervisor to come to the side of the court.2.2 In a match between NOR and BRA (M) the player of There are 5 important steps that the referee should follow:NOR brings to the referees attention that the BRA team is (1) As much as possible confirm that the communicationbeing continually coached and is receiving tactical with the coach is taking place especially by using theinformation. What should the referee do? 2nd referee. (2) Initially request to the offending team that this coaching stop. (3) Request that a Supervisor come to the side of the court. (4) Advise the Supervisor of the situation. The Supervisor is responsible for dealing with the coaching (5) Avoid as much as possible delays to the match It is not possible to penalize the coach directly for misconduct or penalize the players for the coachs actions except if the coaches actions lead the players to break the rules of the game (for example delays). The coach should be treated as a spectator who has caused external interference to the match and can be dealt with by the Tournament Supervisor.PLAYERS EQUIPMENT 9 17. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK2.3 The NOR (W) were playing JPN when the referee The referee should insist that the ring be taped so as to notnoticed a player with a sharp diamond ring on her fingercause any possible injury to the participants. Refereesstduring the official warm up. The 1 referee asked her to should always check for jewellery or other dangerousremove the ring. She replied that it is impossible to removeobjects during the warm up period, bringing any concernsit from her finger. How should the referee respond? to the attention of the players.The referee should act quickly so as to avoid a lengthy2.4 During the official warm up period the referee noticesdelay.that the teams of KOR and FRA (W) have the samecoloured playing uniforms. What should the referee do?(1) Initially try to establish a resolution of the problem byagreement of the teams.Reference: Case 10.1(2) Conduct a coin toss in accordance with Rule 5.2.1.(3) Notify a Supervisor of this problem, only if the problemcan not be resolved.(4) If all other possible alternatives are exhausted recorddetails of the problem in the remarks section of thescoresheet and commence the match with thepermission of the Supervisor.Referees should as much as possible deal with thissituation before the match between the two teams withoutinvolving the Supervisors. Players must enter the playingarea in correct uniform, so the referees just prior to theentry of the teams can check this problem.2.5 Prior to the start of the match the USA (W) playerThe Supervisor has the final decision on legality ofapproaches the referee to check that her under shorts are uniforms. The referee can authorize in exceptionallegal. She explains that she has a medical injury. Thecircumstances a player to play with under shorts, underreferee allows the player to play with the under shorts. Is shirts or similar items of apparel. However, referees arethis correct? required to refer these questions to the Supervisor forconsistency of application under the FIVBs regulations.This should be dealt with before the match can commenceand then noted on the scoresheet.2.6 AUS (M) was playing in a match when a players shorts The referee has acted correctly in fixing this situationaccidentally became badly torn.The referee allows the quickly. The teams would not be charged a time out orplayer to replace the shorts with a matching pair, withoutdelay sanction. Referees must check that the condition ofsignificant delay to the match. Is this correct procedure bythe players uniform is consistent with the respectivethe referee?uniform regulations and the image the sport of BeachVolleyball conveys. It is the players responsibility to have amatching set of uniforms.The referee may require both players to change any item of 10 18. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKtheir uniforms to a new set if they are unable to provide amatching pair of the original uniforms.2.7 During a World Tour match the referee notices that theThe referee is correct. A player can legally wear a watch.USA (M) player is wearing a watch during the official warmup period. He takes no action and allows the player to playthe match wearing the watch. Is this correct?However the referee should bring their safety concerns tothe attention of the player if they consider that it presents adanger to the participants.They may not insist the player remove the watch but cannote this fact in the remarks section of the scoresheet andinform the Supervisor.2.8 Due to extreme heat the sand is very hot. The USA (M) Players may request that they be able to wear footwear ofplayer approaches the referee and requests that he be various types including socks, rubber booties or shoes.allowed to play in socks. The referee allows the player toReferees should accept this request unless it presents aplay in socks. Is this correct application of the rules?danger to the participants.This request must be dealt with quickly and should notdelay the match. Additionally, the referee should considerwatering the courts between matches.2.9 In a match between UKR and BRA (M) the players of This situation is corrected by changing one or aUKR are discovered (at the score of 1:6 in Set 1) to be combination of the uniforms, scoresheet and the servingplaying in uniforms that do not correspond with their player depending on the situation. No penalty shall apply.registered names on the scoresheet (i.e.: they have the The score remains 1:6 and the respective serving team willwrong tops on). How should the referees correct this error? recommence the match. When the captains sign the Prematch Signature box on the scoresheet, the scorer isReference: Case 10.2specifically required to check that the players name anduniform number matches. The captain in signing thescoresheet is verifying that their teams recorded details arecorrect. 11 19. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKRIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PARTICIPANTS2.10 At the end of a rally the NZL players see a linejudgeThe player(s) may politely request to speak to the 1st stsignal the touch of the ball off a block. The 1 referee doesreferee and then may request an explanation of thenot see the signal of the linejudge. Can the players requestinterpretation of the call. The referee must answer their stthat the 1 referee ask the linejudge to repeat their signal?request and the linejudge may be asked to repeat theirsignal. Players may state to the referee that the Linejudgesignalled but they may not insist on the signal beingrepeated.As good technique, referees should ensure that they haveall available information to make a decision and / orindicate to the players that they are overruling the otherofficials signal. It is acceptable for a referee to change theirinitial call based on new information received from otherofficials. Collaboration is an important principle inofficiating.2.11 A play involving a clear misinterpretation of the rulesThe referee is clearly incorrect and should not respond instby the 1 referee occurs. The players of CHI (M) approachthis manner. Initially the referee should repeat and explainthe referee and he states that the referees decision is finalthe decision to the players using the official hand signalsand that no protest would be allowed. Is this a correct etc. ststatement by the 1 referee?Each player individually has the right to question thereferee in this way. If the players do not accept thisexplanation they may signify his / her intention to protestunder the Protest Protocol regulations. The 1st refereedoes not have the right to refuse the teams protest andmust institute the Protocol.A legal protest should involve one of the followingcircumstances:(1) Misinterpretation of a rule(2) Scoring error (including service order)(3) Irreconcilable break down in the match officiating.(4) Technical aspect of match conditions.(5) Incorrect application of the rules. 12 20. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK2.12 In a match between NOR and BRA (M) the ball is Clearly the BRA player has made an action designed toattacked by NOR landing on the service line of the BRAcover up a fault and should be penalized immediatelycourt. Thelinejudge signals out.TheNOR team under the Misconduct scale. However, if the BRA playerapproaches the referee requesting that he check the ballhad prior to wiping out the ball mark indicated ball in tostmark. The 1referee wishes to initiate a Ball Mark the referees this act in the spirit of the game should not beProtocol. Shortly afterwards, the BRA player wipes away penalized. ndwith his foot the ball mark before the 2referee can check st The player in this circumstance has acknowledged thethe mark. The 1 referee then signals NOR to serve, theninitial decision was incorrect or has clarified the correctball in (to clarify the decision) but takes no action againstdecision to the referee (hence the referee now signallingthe BRA player. Is this correct?in). A Ball Mark Protocol does not need to be continued.Note: under the current regulations the eventual checkingof the ball mark would be enforced by the 1st referee andnot the 2nd referee as referred at the actual case above.This fact does not in any case impacts in the principle ruledby this case.2.13 In a mens match between NOR and GEO during theClearly the referees had all the qualified informationrd2006 Swatch-FIVB Grand Slam in Paris, at 11-8 in the 3necessary to make the right call. The GEO player has inset, the team from NOR attacks the ball and the ball landsany case made an action which could be interpreted asnear the line. The referee immediately makes his decision aiming to cover up a fault and should therefore beand calls the ball out. The NOR team requests a ball marksanctioned under the Misconduct scale. In this case, as the stprotocol. At this moment, player n 2 from Georgia, after action of the player did not prevent the 1referee fromstthe decision ball out was made by the 1referee butbeing 100% sure of the correct final call and a Ball Markbefore the implementation of the ball mark protocol,Protocol did not need to be implemented, he was correctrepositions the line that he had previously moved slightlyby sanctioning the GEO player for unsportsmanlikewith his leg while trying to dig the ball. Following this actionconduct.the NOR team requested a red card for player n 2 fromHowever if the referees were unable to establish the exactGeorgia based on the fact that he had changed the courtpoint of impact of the ball before the GEO player hadline conditions before the referee was able to check the ballmoved the line and a Ball Mark Protocol would be required,markthen the 1st Referee should have decided to replay the playThe 1st referee informed the NOR team that he had as he did not have sufficient information to make the call,sufficient information (all officials agreed that even if the and immediately after, sanction the concerned player withline was moved slightly out by the action of the defendinga red card for rude conduct.player still the contact of the ball with the ground was outby a few centimetres) to make the call out and thereforethe action of the player did not prevent him from makingthe final decision. He then sanctioned the concerned player(n 2 from Georgia) with a yellow card for unsportsmanlikeconduct. Is this correct? 13 21. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK2.14 At the SWATCH FIVB PAF Open in Aland, during the The referees decision to not initiate the ball mark protocol ndmatch ITA vs SUI (M) at 14:13 in the 2set ITA hits thewhen the call was first disputed by ITA is the initial error. Ifball to the back line of SUI. The linejudge shows the ball to the referee in pursuit of getting the information necessary stbe in. The 1 referee whistles out. ITA player #1 asks for a to make a correct decision had initiated the ball markball mark protocol to decide if the ball is in or out due toprotocol, then there would not have been the need for thest stdifferent decisions by the linejudge and 1 referee. The 1 process after the court switch and a decision based on allreferee clearly states that the ball is out and that thethe appropriate information could have been made.decision is his. He rejects initiating the ball mark protocol The referees decision of ball out at the end of the originaland again shows his decision that the ball is out and pointsplaying action is a judgement call. His decision originally toto SUI. not initiate the ball mark protocol based on hisinterpretation of the information at hand is also a ndAt this point the 2 referee whistles for court switch as thejudgement call.score is now 15:13 in favour of SUI. When the teamsswitch sides player #1 for ITA goes to the ball mark andThe referees decision to initiate a ball mark protocol afterclaims the ball to be in. He again requests a ball mark the court switch constitutes a misinterpretation and wrongstprotocol. The 1 referee refuses to initiate the process and application of the ball mark protocol process as the entireasks the team to set up for the next serve. ITA refuses toplaying action is finished with the referee awarding theset up saying they want the Referee Delegate to come to point, deciding not to initiate the BMP and authorizing the stthe court. At this point the 1 referee initiates a ball markcourt switch.protocol.Obviously the primary goal of all officiating is to make thendThe 2 referee completes the ball mark protocol and thecorrect decision. This philosophy governs everything that isdecision is then made that the ball is in, point to ITA, scoredone by a referee. Based on this, the referee(s) shouldnow 14:14 and not 15:13 as was the original decision. strive to collect all of the information available andnecessary before making the final decision. Officiating byIs the referees decision to initiate the ball mark protocolthis process of information gathering will reduce theand the final decision correct? necessity of incorrect initiated protocols and avoid themaking of incorrect decisions which ultimately reduce theNote: under the current regulations the checking of the ballreferees authority amongst the players.mark would be enforced by the 1st referee and not the 2ndThe rules concerned:referee as referred at the actual case above. This fact does11.3 Ball IN and 11.4 Ball OUTnot in any case impacts in the principle ruled by this case.2.15 A player of GER (M) on a number of occasions A referee should not allow such behaviour. The refereequestions the referees ability to make decisions and his should where possible utilise verbal warnings but still as stneutrality. What should the 1 referee do? appropriate consider use of either misconduct warnings orpenalties. A referee should always answer all questions ina professional manner and show good judgement as towhat behaviour is or is not acceptable.2.16 At the end of a long and difficult match the players ofInitially the referee(s) and Tournament officials must takeFRA (M) leave the playing court immediately and the all measures possible to find the FRA captain, immediatelycaptain is unable to be found to sign the scoresheet. Whatinforming the Supervisor(s) of the occurrence as some stshould the 1 referee do to complete the scoresheet? subsequent action may need to take place. 14 22. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKReference: Case 10.3In case the captain is not found after 20 minutes the 1streferee is then responsible for addressing the scoresheetto the Supervisor(s) after the respective final completion.It will be then the responsibility of the relevant Supervisorto note the occurrence in the remarks section of thescoresheet and sign pp on behalf of the missing captain incase required. 15 23. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK CHAPTER 3 POINT, SET AND MATCH WINNER SCORING SYSTEM3.1 Prior to the match the Technical Supervisor and the The referees should make sure that the scoresheet isBRA (W) player approached the referees. The playercompleted with all the details required, noting the cause ofconfirmed her wish to Default her next match due to a this default in the remarks section of the scoresheet. It ismedical injury, which was accepted by the Supervisor. not necessary to conduct a coin toss, or warm up period.What procedures should the referee follow to record thisBoth teams should sign the scoresheet verifying the result.default on the scoresheet?The referee should inform all players, Supervisors,tournament organisers and officials of the situationReference: Case 10.4regarding the default. The 1st referee remains in overallcontrol of the recording of the default proceedings on thescoresheet.3.2 In a match between USA and AUS (W), the referees do Between the 1st and 2nd sets it is the responsibility of thestnot confirm the service order of the teams between the 1referees to: ndand 2 sets. At the start of the second set the serving USA(1) Initially ask the team that lost the coin toss before theteams player is different from that recorded on the1st set for their decision.scoresheet. What actions should referees undertakebetween sets to prevent this situation?(2) Ask the other team for their decision based on theremaining alternatives.These two steps should determine the team to serve andthe respective sides of the court. Additionally the refereesshould determine(3) The teams service order.Teams have the right to alter their service order and tomake a different decision from that of the team winning thecoin toss before the 1st set. The 1st referee should in mostcircumstances conduct a coin toss between the 2nd and 3rdsets. 16 24. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKCHAPTER 4 PREPARATION OF THE MATCH / STRUCTURE OF PLAYPREPARATION OF THE MATCH4.1 The captains of the respective teams conduct the coin This is acceptable as long as the decision is made quicklytoss. Having won the coin toss, the BEL captain asks(maximum one minute) and allows the scorer enough timepermission to go onto the court for a minute, to help decideto be ready to commence the match at the end of theon which side to choose due to the strong winds. The BELofficial warm up period.captain signs the scoresheet and then goes to his partneron the court. Should the referee have insisted on receivingtheir decision before allowing the captain to return to theThe captain may convey their decision (side and servingcourt?order) by signalling or speaking to the referees and / orscorer. The 2nd referee should verify that the scorer hasReference: Case 10.5received this information.In a match where television requires the service order orside the decision must be conveyed immediately followingthe coin toss due to the time required to prepare for thematch.4.2 In a match between PUR and JPN (W), at the end of Yes. The referee has acted within the spirit of the rules inthe official warm up time, the player from PUR requested to allowing this slight delay. While not physically injured, stthe 1 referee for permission to go to the toilet / bathroom.requiring a medical injury timeout, the player is not able tostThe 1referee authorized this request, which slightlycommence the match, for a short time.delayed the start of the match. Was the referee correct inThe referee correctly accepted this request, without using aauthorizing this request?medical injury timeout, timeout or delay sanction. If theplayer made this request during the match the refereeshould also authorize this slight delay. The 2nd refereeshould be active in controlling the duration of this delay.4.3 The players of DEN and ENG (W) teams are warmingThe referee should accept this request, as there is aup on the centre court. The players ask the referees howsubstantial difference in the conditions from the matchlong they will have for their official warm up period. Thecourt and the warm up court. Players should be allowedreferee replies 3 minutes as they have had a warm uptime to utilise the match court in order to acclimatise to thecourt available. The players are surprised and they request new conditions. 17 25. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK5 minutes due to the fact that the warm up courts wereThis request should, if possible, be discussed with theoutside the stadium, exposed to strong winds and alignedSupervisor prior to the official warm up. At the tournamentsin a different direction. How should the referee reply? technical meeting this request should be discussed and thereferees decision should reflect this discussion. TEAM LINE UP / PLAYERS POSITIONS4.4 The teams of JPN and IND (M) finish their officialInitially the referees must check the scoresheet toprotocol and enter the court to start their match. The firstdetermine its correctness. If there is any possibility of anserver for JPN (player #1) goes to the serving position. Theerror in the communication or recording of the serviceScorer immediately draws the referees attention to the factorder, this should be corrected and player #1 allowed tothat the scoresheet states that the first server should beserve.player #2. Should the referees insist that #2 serve?A referee should generally accept this request as it doesReference: Case 10.6not change the nature of the match substantially and nocomparative advantage is gained.This error occurs often from communication problemsbetween the players and the officials and must becorrected without significant delay.The 2nd referee and the scorer must ensure thatinformation is correctly recorded prior to a match. 18 26. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKCHAPTER 5 PLAYING ACTIONS STATES OF PLAY5.1 During the match ITA vs. GRE (W), the ball isThe 2nd referee should initially indicate ball in or out andcontested at the net with a series of quick play actions. It isthen the team that now should serve (to assist the 1stunclear who touches the ball last. After these actions the referee only).ndball lands outside the sideline of GRE near the 2referee.How should both referees signal this situation? They may also indicate the player who touched the ball last. The 1st referee should observe the linejudge and 2nd referees signal(s) and then signal team to serve, nature of the fault and, if necessary, the player at fault. It is very important that after situations such as this that the 2nd referee indicates who touched the ball as they are in a good position to see if the ball was played simultaneously or touched a player(s) separately.5.2 The RSA (M) team attacks the ball. It clearly lands just The referee should respond to the players that the balloutside the boundary line. The line jumps and moves duemust contact the line to be called as in.to the balls impact near it. Both of the RSA players insist to Additionally the 1st referee may ask for the Linejudge tothe referees that the line moved, so the ball must be called repeat their signal and / or for a Ball Mark Protocol to beas in. How should the referee reply to the RSA players? enacted. Referees should be aware that the ball may land out, but have struck the line, which is in a raised position, causing it to move. The line moving although it was not contacted is very common due to the nature of the court surface and lines. The referee should be able to very precisely give the players a correct definition of ball in clarifying any misinterpretation.5.3 The AUT (M) team attacks the ball. It lands near the The 1st referee must:19 27. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKline, in front of the 2nd referee. Quickly the linejudge signals(1) Decide whose decision to accept, based on what they ndout, while the 2referee indicates in. The players of both have seen themselves.ndteams approach the 2 referee gesturing in and out(2) He / she should quickly whistle and indicate for bothrespectively. How should each of the referees deal with this ndteams to go back to their positions away from the 2circumstance?referee st(3) If both officials were in a good position to signal, the 1referee may decide that a Ball Mark Protocol beenacted (to check the ball mark). st(4) The 1 referee can then make a final decision basedon the review of the ball mark together with thefeedback by the 2nd referee (as the ball mark may beout but the ball had hit the line).ndThe 2referee should: st(1) Initially indicate to the 1 referee, until the refereeacknowledges this.(2) They should not discuss this decision with the players. st(3) Convey all appropriate information to the 1 referee ina clear and concise manner.(4) Follow all other appropriate aspects of the Ball MarkProtocol st(5) Once a final decision is made, by the 1 referee, thend2referee should repeat the appropriate hand signalsand show no sign of disagreement with it.Note: this ruling has been duly adapted to the currentregulations concerning the Ball Mark Protocol.The following steps should be utilized:5.4 A player from GER (W) spikes the ball very close to thestline. The Linejudge signals out, but the referees both(1) Initially the 1referee must consider directly if theybelieve that the ball touched the line. How should both want to overrule the linejudge (signaling the ball as in).referees deal with this situation? st(2) The 1 referee may consider the quality andperformance of the linejudge(s) in making this decision.It is not up to the 2nd referee to make this decision.(3) Collaboration immediately at the end of the rally is ndimportant in making this decision. The 2refereeshould also try to actively stop the players from comingunder the net. stIf the 1referee decides to utilize a Ball Mark Protocol 20 28. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKthen: st(4) The 1 referee should quickly proceed to the place ofthe ball mark.(5) He/she should request the linejudge(s) to assist themand should not allow any influence or interference fromthe players of either team.(6) The 1st referee should immediately upon verification ofthe facts and on the way back to the stand convey tothe appropriate team(s) the details of the situation.(7) In case the initial review of the ball mark being stquestioned by one of the teams, the 1 referee shouldgo quickly back to the mark before he/she returns tothe stand, and with the assistance of the 2nd refereemake a final review of the mark. st(8) The 1 referee should then go strait to the stand andsignal the final decision on ball in or outThe checking of the ball mark is an important techniquethat can be used to check information in making a decisionto calm the players down in reaction to this situation and togive the 1st referee the opportunity to make the finaldecision.Note: this ruling has been duly adapted to the currentregulations concerning the Ball Mark Protocol.5.5 In a mens match between ESP and BRA at the In order to correctly implement the spirit of the rule theSwatch-FIVB Grand Slam in Stavanger, with the score atReferees should: st4-7 in the 1 set, player n 1 from Spain hit, with a shot, thea)If during the rally a line has moved substantially,opponent court on the line.this must be replaced and then a decision isWhile the linejudge signalled the ball in, the BRA team made;complained, that at a prior exchange during the same rally,b)Small movement of the lines during a rally shallthey had displaced the line out when digging the ball,not result in the replacement of the line and aclaiming that the referee should reposition the line beforedecision would be made with the line in itsmaking the call.position at the end of the rally;stThe 1referee decided to reposition the line and thenc)Yet, if a line is moved during the very final stagesjudged the ball as out based on the ball mark. The lineof the rally (including from the attack action untilhad been moved out about 10cm.the ball lands), then the line should be replaced to 21 29. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK its normalposition anda decision made regardless of how much the line moved;d) The same, as above (c), would apply anytime a player deliberately moved a line during play. In this case, the concerned player should in addition be sanctioned according to the misconduct sanction scale;e) A line that is permanently displaced (line is either broken or an anchor point is detached) during play will result in an immediate stoppage of play and a replay authorized.5.6 In a match between USA and ITA at the 2006 Swatch-The decision of the 1st Referee was correct.FIVB World Tour Open in Acapulco, with the score at 17-17in the 2nd set, player n1 from the USA, while retrieving theball near his side line, displaced the line about 2cm makingSmall movement of the lines during a rally shall not resulthis court wider in this area.in the replacement of the line and a decision will be madewith the line in the position as at the end of the rally.The rally continued and the last action of the opponentteam sent the ball directly to this spot and the ball slightlycontacted the line. The USA player claimed that the ball isout and that the referee should reposition the line beforeYet, if a line is moved during the very final stages of themaking the call.rally (including from the attack action until the ball lands),then the line should be replaced to its normal position andThe 1st referee called the ball in.a decision made regardless of how much the line moved.5.7 A NZL (M) player serves a sky ball. The ball passes This is a very unusual circumstance. The defending NORlegally over the net through the crossing space but thenteam did however have the opportunity to play the balldue to the very strong head winds, passes back under thewhile it was in the space above its playing court, the ballnet (from the NOR side), without contacting either the nethaving legally traveled through the crossing space.or the receiving NOR players. Is this a point for NZL or aTherefore the point should be awarded to NZL. Thisside out to NOR?situation is similar to a player legally blocking the ball overthe net (ie: on the opponents side), then the ball passesunder the net crossing completely the lower space. The 22 30. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKdefending team would again be penalized as they had apotential play on the ball while the ball was in the spaceabove their playing court.5.8 A POR (W) player serves. The CZE receiver passesNo. The 2nd referee has within their authority the right tothe ball, over the antenna, back to the opposing court andwhistle and signal this fault. They should do so at the timendplay continues with POR playing the ball. The 2refereeit contacts the POR player as at this time play can notnotices that the ball does not pass completely inside the continue legally. 2nd referees should ensure that they are incrossing space but does not blow his whistle, allowing play a good position to judge this fault while not obstructing theto continue. Is this correct by the 2nd referee?possible play of the CZE team.Active and competent linejudges play an important role onthis kind of play. PLAYING FAULTS5.9 In a match SUI vs. NED (W), the ball is played legallyThe team who now has the serve is the team whose courtby both teams above the net, in a joust and then landsthe ball has landed outside (i.e.: NED will now serve), SUIoutside the court of NED. Who now has the serve?is ruled to have hit the ball out.It is for this reason that a ball that is played by both teamsin a joust and then hits the antenna would be called as areplay i.e.: both teams hit the ball out.A 2nd referee should indicate very quickly in these twocircumstances which team now has the serve to assist inthe 1st referees judgement (and if necessary the player atfault). PLAYING THE BALLThe 2nd referee has initially shown poor technique on 25.10 In a World Tour match PUR vs. BUL (M), the ball isoccasions:attacked by PUR and slightly touches the block of BUL.The BUL team then uses 3 more contacts to return the ball (1) At the time of the block touch they should signal touch.over the net. The rally continues with BUL winning a point. th(2) At the 4 contact they should also signal.Immediately at the end of the rally the PUR team states to stthe 1 referee that they believe there were 4 contacts. TheThese signals should be discrete and clearly visible to the2nd referee upon request of the 1st referee confirms that 1st referee. They should try as much as possible not to 23 31. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKthere were 4 contacts and the referee then awards theconvey these signals to the players, they are between theserve to PUR. Was this good officiating technique by bothreferees. Immediately at the end of the rally they shouldofficials? again signal to the 1st referee. The 1st referee should, where the possibility of a slight block touch exists, check whether their 2nd referee is signaling or not. They have shown good technique to change their decision with the new information received at the end of the rally from the 2nd referee.5.11 The ESP (M) team serves the ball. The receiving The player is correct. The service is a specific exception toplayer of ITA plays the ball overhand, (hard driven ball the rules that define a hard driven ball. It is illegal to receivedefence) and carries it. Play continues. At the end of the a served ball in this way. If the player contacts the ballrally the ESP team complains to the referee that thisoverhand with fingers, (ie: setting the ball) this contact musttechnique is not legal when receiving service. The referee be clean. Additionally the player may not carry or hold areplies that he considered the serve a hard driven ball. ball that has been served.Who is correct?5.12 The player of SUI (M) sets the ball to his partner usingThe referee should consider:a technique that involves a quick but mistimed contact with(1) The timing of the hands in the contact (ie: did thethe fingers (double contact). In considering this settinghands contact the ball simultaneously or separately?)technique what factors should the referee look at? (2) How much of a technical error (i.e.: mistiming of the hands) has occurred with this set? (3) Is the set an attack hit? In this case it is not applicable as they were setting their partner (4) Was the contact quick or prolonged? (5) Is this fault consistent with calls of a similar nature and at the appropriate level? The referee should not consider: (1) The players position prior, during or after the set. A player can potentially complete a legal set from any position. (2) The sound of the ball contact (3) The spin or rotation of the ball after contact They should focus specifically on the technical correctness (cleanness) and duration of the players ball contact.24 32. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK5.13 The player of CAN (M) receives the ball as a first The referee should consider their judgment in 2 stages.contact from an attack by a POR player. What factorsInitially he / she should decide if the ball is a hard drivenshould the referee consider in judging this contact?attack or a soft attack. Factors in judging this include:(1) Does the player have time to change his technique?(2) The time and distance between the attack and thedefensive action(3) Did the speed of the ball change due to a block orhitting the net?(4) Is the action offensive or defensive in nature?If the attack hit is not considered hard driven (ie: softattack) the referee must consider the following:(1) The contact must be clean and short in duration (if thecontact involves finger action).The contact must be one action and not carried (if thecontact does not involve finger action). Similar criteria canbe utilized if the first contact is after a block.5.14 A player from ARG (M) spikes the ball towards theYes. Although this contact is the second contact of theopponents court with great speed. It slightly touches theCUB team, it is legal to play the ball in this way. Theblock of the CUB player and does not alter its speed or referee must be sure that the ball still satisfies the criteriadirection substantially. The other CUB player defends the of a hard driven ball especially regarding the time theball by carrying it slightly with open hands (hard driven defensive player has to change their technique of playingdefence). Should the referee in this case allow thisthe ball. If the block touch significantly changed the speeddefensive action? to the ball (effectively making it not a hard driven ball), thecontact would be penalized as a held ball.5.15 The BRA (M) player jumps and spikes the ball withNo. This situation is different from 5.12 above in that thegreat speed and force. Its trajectory then takes the ball intoball has substantially changed its speed and therefore thecontact with the top of the net that slows the balls speedball is now not hard driven. The referee must strictly checkdown greatly. The player of GER in defending plays it withthe criteria for hard driven and soft attack many timesopen hands slightly carrying it (hard driven ball defence). during a match, fully understanding the consequences ofShould the referee allow this defensive action? this in establishing referees expectations as to how thedefensive player will play the ball. 25 33. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK5.16 During the match ENG vs. INA (W) there is very little The referee must particularly focus on the time the playerblocking due to the strong wind and poor ball control. Inhad to change her technique in playing the ball. Did shemany rallies, the women of both teams attack the ball from have enough time to change her technique from beinga standing position to each other. Some of these attacks defensive to being offensive? In this way it is a matter forare defended in a slightly held (hard driven ball defence) the referee to consider time and distance. It is not relevantmanner. What criteria should the referee look at in judgingif the player hit the ball as hard as she could or usedthis contact?unusual techniques. If the referee considers that the player had time to change her technique he should penalize any contacts where the ball is carried (such as hard driven ball defence).5.17 The player of USA (M) sets the ball to his partnerThe referee should consider:using technique that involves a long and protracted contact(1) The length of time between the players first contacttime (carry) with the hands. In considering this settingwith the ball and their release (final contact) of the ball st(2) Is the set an attack hit? In this case it is not applicabletechnique what factors should the 1 referee look at? as he was setting to his partner (3) The cleanness of the contact. Were the hands / fingers simultaneous in contacting the ball or slightly separate in their actions? The referee should not consider as definitely indicating a fault: (1) The players position prior, during or after the set. A player can potentially complete a legal set from any position. (2) The sound of the ball contact. (3) The spin or rotation of the ball after contact. Referees should focus specifically on the cleanness and duration of the players contact with the ball (time of contact between first and last contact points). It is also important that referees are consistent in their expectations of standard between the ball being carried and double contacted. Referees must be aware that there are many techniques by which players may gain more control of the ball when setting by prolonging the contact (carrying).5.18 During a mens match JPN vs. NED the ball isYes, the decision of the referee is correct.attacked very strongly by the NED attacking player. The While much of the criteria for a hard driven ball have beendefending JPN player reacts in defending the hard driven met, (speed, players action etc) the rules specifically stateball by utilizing a defensive technique with both wrists that this situation is illegal.26 34. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKinverted (i.e.: fingers pointing downwards to the ground onboth hands), and carries the ball momentarily. The 1st Because this technique involves both wrists being invertedreferee whistles and calls the JPN player for a carried ball.(thus fingers pointing downwards to the ground) the refereeIs this decision correct given that the ball was hard driven can potentially consider this a carried ball.and the players action purely defensive in nature? Referees should act with conservatism in calling this fault only penalizing when the contact was not momentary and the wrists of both hands pointed downwards.5.19 During the match between CAN and USA (M) the ball Yes, it is legal within a joust to redirect (change theis jousted at the net by a player of each team. Howeverdirection) of the ball.near the end of this simultaneous contact (joust) at the net However a referee should be very clear within theirthe player of USA clearly redirects (changes the direction) observations as to:of the ball in another direction from that of the originalactions by both participating players. This action of Was the joust action simultaneous? i.e.: both contactingredirecting the ball is still however while the ball is in the ball. Was the timing of the release from the joustcontact by both players. Is a redirection of the ball legal simultaneous? i.e.: did one player then contact the ballwhile the ball is being simultaneously contacted within a after the joust was completed? Was the timing of the startjoust? of the joust simultaneous? i.e.: possibly one player carried the ball into the joust (or tip action etc) The nature of a joust as defined by the rules of the game is that it allows both players to carry the ball with one or two hands above the net (without touching the net). It makes no ruling on the trajectory of the ball subsequent to the joust or the actions of the players within a simultaneous holding action. BALL AT THE NET5.20 Near the end of a match involving the womens teams This is a situation where the 2nd referee must blow his /of USA and BUL, the USA player serves the ball. Itsher whistle as play can not legally continue (as the ball ndtrajectory takes it over the antennae near the 2refereemust pass completely within the antennaes after a serve)and the receiving BUL player then plays it. Play continues and it lies with the jurisdiction of the 2nd referee.ndbut the 2referee does not blow their whistle nor indicate With many complex situations potentially occurring whento the 1 referee their observations. What should the 2nd st27 35. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKreferee have done in this situation?the ball passes completely outside, over or completelyinside the antennae the 2nd referee must not in manycircumstances blow his / her whistle but communicate viaappropriate hand signals the exact circumstances to the1st referee.Active and competent linejudges play an important role insuch plays.5.21 The ball is set by an AUS (M) player towards his For the block to be considered legal, any part of the ballpartner who prepares to attack. Simultaneously with the must be on the defending POR teams side of the net. If thespike of the AUS player the POR player with one handball is completely on the attacking (AUS) side it is illegal forblocks the ball. Is this a legal block by POR?the blocker to contact before or simultaneously with theattack hit. The attacking (AUS) player must be allowed tohit the ball first. PLAYER AT THE NET5.22 The player of AUS (W), having blocked the ball, landsThis is good refereeing technique by the 2nd referee.slightly off balance near the net. In this action she touches Incidental contact of the hair is never a fault. Also, netndthe net with her hair. The 2 referee sees this net touchcontacts where the wind pushes the net onto the player,ndbut does not whistle. Is this correct by the 2 referee? should not be penalized.5.23 During the match BUL vs. EST (M), the BUL player This is initially correct action by the 2nd referee as a faultattacks the ball over the EST players block. In this actionhas occurred which stops play.the BUL player, upon landing, passes under the net andHowever the 1st referee must now consider this possiblecontacts the EST player causing him to touch the net whilendfault in context with the rules of interference, particularlyin the final stage of the block action. The 2refereeconsidering whether the EST player had a potential play onwhistles immediatelyforthiscontact and signalsthe ball.interference. Is this correct?The 1st referee may therefore rule interference or a tie ball(replay).5.24 In a World Tour match the ball is served strongly by Yes, although no contact has occurred. It is a fault if thethe AUS (M) player forcing the receiving NZL player into aplayer through contact or the threat of contact prevents apoor reception, which sends the ball near the net. Theplayer from making a play on the ball, when they in theother NZL player makes a spectacular diving save near the referees judgment would have been able to play thisnet but in this action crosses under the net and is lying insubsequent shot. The blocking player has been preventedthe AUS court. The AUS blocking player sees that the ball by the NZL players position from playing the ball whileis coming over the net prepares to block but stops before having no potential play on the ball themselves.jumping seeing that if he jumps he will contact the NZL ndplayer. The 2 referee whistles for interference although 28 36. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKno physical contact has taken place. Is this a correctinterpretation?5.25 During the match NED vs. ESP (W), the NED playerAfter considering all of the relevant facts the 1st refereeattacks the ball over the ESP players block. In this action should replay the point if it is clear there was nothe NED player, upon landing, passes under the net and interference. He / she may need to verify this with the 2ndndcontacts the ESP player slightly. The 2referee whistlesreferee. Physical contact does not mean that interferenceimmediately for this contact and signals interference. has definitely occurred. Interference is not a fault if there isstMeanwhile the NED players request to the 1 referee tocontact (slight or major) but the player had no possibility toreplay the point as the ESP team had no play on the ball play the ball (this may also apply to teams subsequent or stand the contact was incidental. What should the 1 refereelater contacts). The implication of this rule is that contactdo?does not necessarily mean a fault. It depends on the ability of the player(s) to play the ball. The referees must examine each case looking at the players positions, where the ball landed, distances and the possibility (potential) that the player(s) would have subsequently have played the ball if not interfered with.5.26 NOR was playing a World Tour match against PORYes. This is a form of interference although no physical nd(M). The ball is dug by NOR and it goes past the 2 contact has occurred. It is illegal for a player, toreferee and remains legally in play as it passes outside the substantially alter their position in order to prevent theirantenna. The other NOR player has just attempted to blockopponents from making a play on the ball. However, thenear this position sees that he can retrieve the ball legallyreferee must consider that the player had a potential playby going under the net and returning the ball outside theon the ball (ie: they could get to it). Additionally, the refereesame antennae. The POR player who has just spikedmust check that the player who interferes (POR in thismoves his position deliberately to put himself between the case), has no potential play on the ball him / herself. Thereball and the NOR player. Is this a fault?must be a clear interference, not merely moving slightly but significantly and deliberately altering the players position to prevent a play on the ball.5.27 During an exciting rally the AUT (M) player makes a The referee must, if they believe the ball contacted thesuccessful block. However in this action he falls to the AUT player before contacting the playing court, penalizeground and lies partly under the net. The blocked ball hitsAUT for penetration into the opponents court. Play has notthe top of the net and falls down on the BRA side of the net finished until the ball contacts the court so the fault is priorstriking the AUT player on the body before it contacts the to this circumstance. It is not relevant if the BRA playerssurface. The BRA players request for interference could potentially play the ball.although they had no potential play on the ball. How should The ball must contact the AUT player in the space abovethe referee respond? the BRA teams playing court for this to be penalized. This case is the same as when a player, blocks the ball onto there own feet, which have been bent forward under29 37. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKthe net, in the action of blocking.5.28 During a match between two USA (M) teams the No, the overriding consideration must be that the USA Redfollowing difficult situation occurs with the USA Blue team team does not have a legal play on the ball because theserving for the match. During the rally the ball is attackedball passed completely between the antennas.with great force by the USA (Blue#1) player. The defendingUSA (Red#2) player defends the hand driven ball but itInterference is based on a player intentionally preventingpasses back over the net completely between the antennasthrough contact or threat of contact a player making a playstand close to the USA (Blue) teams sideline near the 1 on the ball. Additionally the players action in potentiallyreferee. The USA (Red#1) player believing that he may still playing the ball must be legal in nature (i.e.: the actionshave an opportunity to play the ball crosses under the netprior to this potential play do not make a legal playand moves in a path directly to play the ball. Immediatelyimpossible (e.g.: 3 previous contacts, ball passing betweenupon seeing the USA (Red#1) player crossing under the the antennae etc)). The Red player crossing under the netnet the USA (Blue#2) player moves deliberately in a in this case can not legally play the ball.direction so as to create an obstruction upon the USAThe action of the Blue #2 player would have been(Red#1) player. The two players collide near the sideline.considered a fault (if play were legally possible to continue)In the meantime the ball has fallen 1 meter outside theas they deliberately altered their position as to create ansideline on the USA blue teams side of the court. Seeinginterference and were not clearly attempting to play orthe deliberate obstruction by the USA (Blue#2) player thepotentially play the ball. They can not be sanctioned under1st referee awards the service to the receiving USA (Red)the misconduct scale.team. Is the decision of the 1st referee correct?5.29 In a mens match between USA and SUI one of theThe 2nd referee was excused by the fact that the actionstUSA players close to the 1 Referee crossed under the netwas close to the 1st referee and it was difficult to see theto the opponents court whilst trying to recover a ball thatslight contact by the USA player and/or the path of the ballsthad passed the vertical plane of the net through thewhilst crossing the net. The 1 Referee chose not to callcrossing space. The SUI player No 1 whilst playing the ball immediately to better analyze what would happen duringin his defensive action was contacted by the USA player the play and if the SUI player was able to successfully hitslightly reacting to the situation. The referees made nothe ball to the opponents court then no call should bedecision and let the play continue and the SUI player after made.receiving the ball back from his partner hit it inside theopponents court. Both referees have responsibilities in this case. Althoughinterference under the net is primarily the 2nd Refereesresponsibility, the 1st Referee having clearly the bestperspective on all the action should as soon asacknowledging no call was made by the 2nd Referee, haveimmediately called for interference by the USA player.In this scenario there was always interference involved.Either by the USA player if the ball crossed inside thecrossing space, or by the SUI player if the ball crossed 30 38. 2010 RULES CASEBOOK outside the crossing space ( including over the antenna) The fact that the 1st Referee allowed the play to go on could have created a very complex situation i.e. in case of the SUI player would have hit the ball outside the opponents court, etc.5.30 In a World Tour match the ball is received by JPN (M),No. This is a fault and is a form of interference. It isand travels into the net. The player of INA (M), seeing thepenalized as a net touch, as the player is considered toball in the net, deliberately moves his hand close to the nethave touched the net, not the net touching the player. Theso that the ball will push the net into contact with his handreferee must clearly see that the player has deliberatelyand then fall to the playing court with the JPN team havingaltered their position in order to initiate this contact throughno potential play on the ball. The referees do not penalizethe net. A player would generally not be penalized if hethis fault, giving the service to INA. Is this correct?was in a pre existing position or have a potential play on the ball.5.31 During a match TUR vs. GER (M), there is a very The 1st referee may confirm with the 2nd referee regardingstrong wind. The player of TUR successfully blocks the the details of the net touch. Referees must be careful thatndball, but is penalized for touching the net by the 2 referee.the net may have been pushed into a C shape by the wind.Both TUR players request the referee replay the point (tie Referees should be conservative in their calling of netball); claiming the net was pushed onto the player by thetouches under strong wind conditions taking into accountwind. What should the 1st referee do?that the net often causes the fault, not the player (ie: the wind pushes the net onto the player). The 1st Referee who had the initial impression that the net5.32 In a match between GER and SUI, in the 3rd set with was driven into the players arms by the ball contactthe score at 13-13 the ball hit the top of the net whilst the nddecided correctly to call a replay after confirming that:GER No 2 player was blocking. The 2 Referee blew his ndwhistle and indicated a net contact by the player. The ball a) the 2Referee was not 100% sure if the GERwent out of the court on the GER side but at the momentplayer contacted the net or was contacted by thethe whistle was blown by the 2nd Referee the ball was stillnet whilst being hit by the ball;ndin play. The GER team protested that the 2 referee hadndb) the 2Referee whistled with the ball still in play.mistakenly called a net touch when in fact the net hadtouched the player due to the ball hitting the net. The 1stReferee, after confirming with the 2nd Referee that he was Rules concerned:not 100% sure if the player had touched the net or the nethad touched the player, called a replay. The SUI team did Rule 15.3.431 39. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKnot accept this decision and requested a Protest Protocol.When the ball is driven into the net, which causes it toThe Referee Delegate came to the court and collected thetouch the opponent, no fault is committed.evidence from the referees and players and afterconsidering all the information decided to uphold the Rule 11.2 stdecision of the 1 Referee. This was based on the fact thatThe rally ends with the referees whistle. However, if theit was not possible to confirm the net contact by the GERwhistle is due to a fault made in play, the ball is out of playplayer and that as the ball was still in play a replay was thefrom the moment the fault was committed. (Rule 12.2.2)only solution. The PP was rejected at level 1. The SUIteam then asked for a PP at Level 2. The ExecutiveCommittee came to the court, gathered the evidence formthe referees, players and RD and confirmed that thedecision of the referee and RD was correct and rejectedthe protest at level 2.SERVICE5.33 In a World Tour match the #1 player of CAN (W) goesYes. A team can be authorized to serve although they arestback to serve at the end of the rally. The 1 referee checks outside the extension of the sidelines.the receiving INA team is ready then the #2 CAN playerThe criteria the referee should apply before authorizationand then looks at the #1 CAN player. The referee noticesfor serve should be:that she is standing outside the extension of the sidelinesawaiting authorization to serve. The 1st referee whistles(1) Are all other players and officials ready?and authorizes service. Is this allowed?(2) Does the serving player has the ball and is in a positionready to serve?(3) Is the serving player in her teams free zone andbehind the service line or its imaginary extension?(4) Is this the correct player to serve according to theservice order?The correct outcome of this situation should be that the set5.34 The start of the 2nd set in a match between NOR andshould be recommenced. While the overriding fact is thatCAN (M) play commenced with the wrong team servingthe wrong team served it is also clear that:(CAN). The Scorer knew that the wrong team was about tocommence serving, prior to the service being made and (1) The Scorer and 2nd Referee have not indicated and /also did not have the confidence to interject during the or whistled for any fault (in this case it would include ndrally. The 2referee , also knew who should be servingboth before and during the rally) 32 40. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKbut due to being involved with repairing the net prior to the (2) If a wrong player serves and the rally is completedservice forgot the service order, only interjected after theteams can only maintain any points gained if thefinish of the first rally (won by NOR). Both teamscorrect team was serving (not as in this case thesubsequently acknowledged that the wrong team hadincorrect team)commenced serving. What should the 1st Referee now do? nd The 2referee at the start of each set should ensure that they check that the correct player is about to serve, then give the ball to that player and then indicate to the 1st referee that play can be commenced.5.35 During a match the AUS (M) player requests that the Players are obliged if requested by their opponents toITA player change his position as they are screening. Themove if they are creating a screen.ITA player initially does not move to the side but merely This movement may be sideways or moving the body to abends downwards. The AUS player continues to request lower position (crouch or bent).for a screen, asking the player to move to the side. Whatshould the referee do in this circumstance? Where the request for a screen is made repeatedly the referee must consider the validity of this request. They may speak to the serving team player (re- emphasizing the need to move) or the receiving players (stating that no screen now exists in the referees view). Players sometimes use this right to request a screen to move to delay the match or intimidate the opponent.5.36 During the match USA vs. POR (M), the USA playerThe referee should call a replay and re-authorize service.goes back to the service zone to serve. Upon authorization There has been external interference to the service.to serve, he tosses the ball into the air, but it then slightlycontacts an overhead television boom camera, which ispositioned above the player. What should the referee do? Referees should check, before authorizing service that no potential obstruction such as this exists. It may act to distract the server or the receiving team. The server could be requested to move their position slightly to solve the problem or to wait for a short time for the camera to move.5.37 The player of CZE (W) serves the ball. During thisThis situation can easily lead to a 1st referee error. The 1staction her foot is placed very close to the line causing the referee is at a higher position (being on the referees stand) stsand to be moved thus moving the line. The 1refereeand a long distance from the potential fault. The line may33 41. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKsees the line move and penalizes the CZE player for a foot move due to sand pushing the line. Although no fault hasfault. There is no signal from the linejudges. Is this goodbeen committed, this may look like a fault. Confidencerefereeing technique?should be shown in the linejudges ability to correctly call this fault. The 1st referee must act conservatively in calling the fault, only penalizing clear faults especially if signaled by the Linejudge.5.38 In the match ARG vs. ITA (M), the ITA player goes The 1st referee must consider the possibility that they haveback to serve. At this time one of the receiving ARG not correctly checked the receiving teams position (andplayers is standing in an upright position indicating for thetherefore possible screen signal). As it is the 2nd refereesITA player at the net to change his position, as they areresponsibility to watch the receiving team he / she shouldstscreening. The 1 referee authorizes service and the ITAbe asked to report what he /she observed in thisplayer serves. The ball is then caught by the ARG player,circumstance. If there has clearly been a signal for screenwho is then penalized. Both ARG players approach the 1st indicated by the receiving team prior to the servicereferee. What should the referee now do? authorization and the net player has not responded, therefore creating a screen the referee should authorize a replay. The 2nd referee may signal replay to the 1st referee to speed up this process. As a general rule the 1st referee at the end of a rally should focus on the receiving teams position until they are clearly in a position to receive service. Only then should the referee authorize service.5.39 The CHN (W) player goes back to serve the ball. After No. The referee should in this case consider that the playerstbeing authorized to serve by the 1 referee she drops the has not released the ball (tossed), with the intention of stball. The 1 referee penalizes this as a service fault. Is this initiating a service. She should be authorized to servecorrect? again. A referee must understand that players have many unique serving action techniques that may involve the ball actually leaving the players hands (eg: from one hand to another, spinning etc) before the final toss for initiating service. The referee must consider these in their true context and not penalize them. It may also be that a referee might consider penalizing a player for deliberately delaying the game by continuously dropping the ball or that the player has dropped he ball due to it being irregular (eg wet, low pressure etc).5.40 The GER (M) player goes back to serve. After beingThe referee must consider the players normal servicestauthorized to serve by the 1 referee he takes a long timeroutine, has the player clearly seen the service stbefore serving the ball. After 5 seconds the 1refereeauthorization (or heard the whistle) and whether there is ablows her whistle and signals service to the ITA team. clear intention to delay the match. The referee may indicate34 42. 2010 RULES CASEBOOKWhat guidelines should a referee use in judging this with a hand signal that the player should quickly serve.circumstance?This situation should only be penalized if there is a clear deliberate delay or excessive time taken to serve, not merely a long service routine.5.41 During the match between GRE and ESP (M) theYes, the actions of the 1st Referee are correct.player #1 of ESP, after having been authorized to serve The referee has clearly considered the following in makingdrops the ball while in the action of preparing to toss the stthis decision:ball for service. The 1 referee observed that the ball waspartly wet due to contact with the players wet top. Afterwhistling and then signaling for the rally to be replayed the (1) That there was no deliberate attempt to delay the1st referee also required that a new ball be utilized for thegamenew service attempt. Are the actions in this case by the 1st (2) That the action of dropping the ball has not a wayReferee correct?of avoiding being penalized for delay in service (3) That the action of the player in wetting the ballwas accidental (4) The spirit of the rules of the game (5) To ensure that normal playing conditions are to berestored a new ball should be utilized. This mayinvolve the wet ball being replaced. Before re-authorizing service the 1st referee should check the position of the receiving team.5.42 During the match BRA vs. EST (M) the BRA player The correct signal would be to point to the object (in thisserves from outside the extension of the sidelines. Thecase the line that the player has served outside).linejudge signals this fault utilizing the correct signal but the1st referee is unsure as to what signal to utilize?There are a number of faults in the rulebook for which no specific signal is listed (serving outside sideline, foot fault at service, player outside court at service, ball hitting an object, assisted hit etc). In these cases the referee(s) should indicate the nature of the fault by pointing at the appropriate object (player etc).5.43 The USA (M) player goes t