Memo regarding Keeper Safety

I just want to remind everyone of the need for the referees to help protect the goalkeepers. Goalies are in an inherently dangerous position. They are using their bodies (usually hands) to try to stop a ball from going over a line while other players are attempting to kick the ball.  Frequently, keepers are hurt when they are kicked by an opposing player or when the ball strikes them in the face.

When you are refereeing a game, please blow the whistle loudly when the keeper appears to be in any dangerous position. Even when he/she may not have a hand on the ball it may be worthwhile to stop the play and restart with a goal kick.  No one wants to see a little kid get hurt.

Also, some attacking players may be too aggressive in front of goal. As players get older, aggression in front of goal can change a defeat into a win and at high levels of play aggressive play is required. However, we are dealing with an intramural league in which we don’t even keep score.

If you see any instance in which a player is too aggressive or even dangerous, please stop the play and instruct the player to be more careful. For example, players should not be sliding into the keeper (or anyone else). This play is inherently dangerous and the player must be warned. If the aggressive play continues you should have a word with the offending player’s coach and ask him/her to review the issue with the player.

Thanks for your continued hard work.