www.ushandball.org Referees slideshow

1. www.ushandball.orgReferees slideshow

2. TABLE OF CONTENTS • Referees guide start with slide #3 • FAQs start with slide #19 • You make the call start with slide #46

3. GUIDE FOR ONE-WALL HANDBALL REFEREES • (last updated March 28th 2002) • SOME GENERAL COMMENTS • It is important to understand that in order for a tournament to be successful and run smoothly, it is essential that every participant assist with some of the refereeing duties. In order not to overburden anyone in these duties, the fairest system is to have the "losers ref." The most positive aspect of this system is that a player will referee only once in each event. Every player wants a good referee and every player deserves a good referee. You, the players, are the referees, and because of this, it is your responsibility as a tournament player to become a good referee. Study the rules, and take your refereeing responsibility as serious as you do your own game. • Not everyone can become a good referee at the "open" level of play. It is very difficult (though not impossible) to be a good referee at a skill level of play that is more than one level higher than your own. In other words, as an example, it is difficult for a "C" player to referee an "A" match, although a "B" match should not be difficult for the "C" player to referee. But it is very important than you become a good referee at least at your skill level. • BASIC PHILOSOPHY • The referee is: the scorekeeper, • the interpreter and enforcer of the rules, • the administrator of FAIR and SAFE PLAY. • The first "Law of Refereeing" is to KNOW THE RULES. Most problems that arise during a match are because the referee and/or the players do not know the rules. Read the rule book often and become familiar with where the rules for the various situations are located.

4. The good referee: • * must understand his/her responsibility • * have a good knowledge and awareness of the game • * be able to exercise a mature judgment in evaluating each play situation • * be consistent in the calls • * must be fair, courteous, and honest • The less you talk to the players, the better. Remember, the referee is NOT a tyrant and a dictator. • He/she should NOT be the center of attention - just the opposite, the referee should be almost invisible. If after a match is over, everyone in the gallery know the referee's name (even people who didn't know it before the match), the referee probably did a poor job. • The less you talk to the players, the better. Remember, the referee is NOT a tyrant and a dictator. • He/she should NOT be the center of attention - just the opposite, the referee should be almost invisible. If after a match is over, everyone in the gallery know the referee's name (even people who didn't know it before the match), the referee probably did a poor job. • PRE-MATCH DUTIES • Read Part 3, Rule 3.4 A to become familiar with the pre-match duties of the referee. • Explain the "safety holdup" rule. Also explain how you will call situations of "partial obstruction." (See page 6 of this guide under "hinders") • Make sure you read and understand Part 3, Rule 3.4D (4.b) in order to know when the match is supposed to start, how long the players get to warm-up, and what the penalties are for late arrivals.

5. ESTABLISHING THE PACE • The referee must understand the mechanics of refereeing in order to establish the "pace" of the match. Establishing the pace and being consistent will aid in the ability to control the match. Much of this has to do with when to call "point" or "side out," and when to call the score. It is also important to understand the "time out" situations. • Under Part 4, Rule 4.1-E (Interpretation No.4): • After the rally is over, the referee should immediately call "point" or "side out." The receiver then has 10 seconds to assume his ready position, but the server should only have "reasonable time" to get set. The server should not be allowed to stall by slowly retrieving the ball. As soon as the receiver is "ready" and the server has had reasonable time to retrieve the ball and assume the serving position, the referee should call the score, at which time the server has 10 seconds in which to make contact with his service attempt. • If the receiver is in his ready position and the referee believes that the server is taking too much time retrieving the ball and assuming his/her serving position, the referee should call the score. The server will then have 10 seconds in which to serve. (If the serve is not made within 10 seconds, the server is out) • If the receiver is not in his/her ready position after 10 seconds have elapsed from the time the referee calls point or sideout, the referee should call the score and the server may serve immediately or may take up to 10 seconds, whether or not the receiver is ready. • The referee will rarely have to "count off' the seconds because, most of the time, the receiver will be in a "ready" position well before 10 seconds have elapsed, and the server will serve well before 10 seconds have elapsed from the time the score is called.

6. ESTABLISHING THE PACE • The referee must understand the mechanics of refereeing in order to establish the "pace" of the match. Establishing the pace and being consistent will aid in the ability to control the match. Much of this has to do with when to call "point" or "side out," and when to call the score. It is also important to understand the "time out" situations. • Under Part 4, Rule 4.1-E (Interpretation No.4): • After the rally is over, the referee should immediately call "point" or "side out." The receiver then has 10 seconds to assume his ready position, but the server should only have "reasonable time" to get set. The server should not be allowed to stall by slowly retrieving the ball. As soon as the receiver is "ready" and the server has had reasonable time to retrieve the ball and assume the serving position, the referee should call the score, at which time the server has 10 seconds in which to make contact with his service attempt. • If the receiver is in his ready position and the referee believes that the server is taking too much time retrieving the ball and assuming his/her serving position, the referee should call the score. The server will then have 10 seconds in which to serve. (If the serve is not made within 10 seconds, the server is out) • If the receiver is not in his/her ready position after 10 seconds have elapsed from the time the referee calls point or sideout, the referee should call the score and the server may serve immediately or may take up to 10 seconds, whether or not the receiver is ready. • The referee will rarely have to "count off' the seconds because, most of the time, the receiver will be in a "ready" position well before 10 seconds have elapsed, and the server will serve well before 10 seconds have elapsed from the time the score is called.

7. After a fault, "second serve" is the proper call in order for the server to know when his/her 10 seconds begin. In this case, the receiver is NOT allowed 10 seconds to get set. • The receiver is allowed "reasonable time" to get set before "second serve" is announced. • There should be a set pattern in the manner which the score is announced. "12 serving 8" or "12 serves 8" would be correct ways. • It is not necessary to re-call the score after a fault. However, the referee should re-call the score after any hinder or time-out. • After a "hinder" serve, announce "first serve, one hinder serve" or "second serve, one hinder serve" (whichever is appropriate). Remember that two consecutive hinder serves is a fault. It is not necessary to re-call the score after a hinder serve • When a player loses service, the correct call is "side out." When the first player on a doubles team loses service, correct calls could be "one hand out" or "one down" or "one out.""Side out" is the appropriate call when both players on a team have lost service. • Make calls crisp and clear. The speed of the call depends on the situation. Sometimes it is better to NOT call some hinders or hinder serves too quickly. (More about this later.) • Players are NOT allowed to request a towel to wipe their eye guards. Wiping the eye guards may be done within the time frame allowed after a rally is over and before the score is announced. • However due to the nature of our game, it is sometimes necessary to allow the players to wipe up wet spots on the floor. Make sure the players change to dry shirts whenever necessary in order to keep the floor wipes to a minimum.

8. TIMEOUTS • Each player or team is allowed 3 TIMEOUTS per game and 2 TIMEOUTS in a tie-breaker. • Either the server or the receiver may call time-out. • TlMEOUTS may NOT be called after the referee has called the score or "second serve.” • TlMEOUTS may be called consecutively. • TIMEOUTS are 1 minute. The referee should give players a "20 seconds" warning. • 2 minutes are allowed for a glove change. For other equipment needs, such as changing a shirt or broken shoelaces, etc., 2 minutes is the MAXIMUM allowed (try to make this time less if possible). Again, the referee should give a "20 seconds" warning. • 5 minutes are allowed between games. The referee should give a "two minute" warning and a "20 seconds" warning. • When a player or team calls a time-out, check the gloves of the players and have the players change gloves if they are wet or close to being wet enough for a glove change time-out. Allow 2 minutes for this time-out. Also, check the shirts of the players and have them change if necessary . • The method to resume play after a time-out: As soon as the time period has elapsed, announce "time in." Calling "time in" is the same as calling "point" or "side out" after a rally is over. The receiver has 10 seconds to assume the receiving position and the server has "reasonable time" to assume the serving position. Then announce the score. • If a player is not back in the court when you call "time in," a point is awarded to the opponent of that player. If another minute elapses before the player returns, another point is awarded, and so forth, up to 9 minutes. The match is forfeited if the player is 10 minutes late. It is of utmost importance to give the warning calls, so that this situation can be avoided.

9. Remember, it is the players' responsibility to stay within "earshot" of the referee so they can hear the time warnings. (Part 3, Rule 3.4 D-4.b) • INJURY • If an injury occurs, write down the exact time when the injury occurred and the exact time when the player resumed play. An injured player shall not be allowed more than a total of 15 minutes of rest in a match. Injury TIMEOUTS are allowed only for injuries which occur accidentally during the match. • CRAMPS ARE NOT INJURIES. • RULE INTERPRETATION PROTESTS • It is the player's right to question a rule interpretation (the protest must be made before the next serve). It's a good idea to have a rule book handy. If the player is discovered to be right in his/her protest, the correct call should be made. If the player is wrong, the player is charged with a time-out. If the player is out of TIMEOUTS, a "technical" is the call. • A situation might come up for which there is no specific rule. As the rules (Rule 3.4-F) state: • The referee will rule on all matters not covered in the official rules. The referee, however, can be overruled by the tournament director or rules chairman. If a situation arises for which there is no rule, try to think what would be the most FAIR call. It might be simply calling for a replay. • APPEALS • Appeals can only be made if there are linesmen assisting the referee. Read Part 3, rule 3.5 and 3.6 for information on linesmen duties, appealable calls and how to appeal. • A player may not appeal a judgment call (or non-call) of a hinder, an avoidable hinder, a technical or a hinder serve.

10. CHANGING YOUR CALL • Remember, a referee can-change his/her call.. If you think you made a bad call, you should change the call. Whenever both players (in singles) or at least 3 players (in doubles) disagree with your call, you should strongly consider changing the call. • There will be times when you may be unsure of the call. A common instance is when a kill shot is attempted, and you are not sure if the ball was good or if it "crotched." In this case, you make the call (point or sideout) after watching the reactions of the players, as quite often, one player will walk to the service area and the other player will walk back to the receiving area. However, if both players walk up to the service area, they obviously disagree on whether the shot was good or bad. If you are not sure, and there are no linesmen to assist you, the proper call would be a "replay.“ • The players as well as the referee must understand that FAIR PLAY is most important. As the rules state, Violations not detected by the referee (such as wrist balls, skip-in kill shot attempts, double bounces, etc.) bounces. etc.) MUST be called by the offending player. • CHANGING REFEREES • A player may ask for a change in referees, but the change will not necessarily be made. The referee's chairman or a member of the referee's committee or any Level 5 referee can observe the referee in action and decide whether or not to change the referee. If a change request is made, the player making the request will be charged with a time-out. If the change of referee is made, the time-out will be given back to the player. • If both players or teams request a change, every effort will be made to get a new referee. • TECHNICALS • A "technical" results in a point being deducted from the offending player's score. Three technical's in a match results in a forfeiture. If a player's behavior is not so severe as to warrant a technical, a "technical warning" may be issued without a point deduction and should be accompanied by a brief explanation of the reason for the warning. Some examples of actions that may result in technicals are:

11. Too frequent complaints made against the referee's judgment. Abuse of the appeal privileges. Profanity The "F" word is an automatic technical. Other profanities should be judged by the referee. Remember, you can give a "technical warning." A threat of any nature to opponent or referee. Excessive or hard striking, throwing or kicking of ball between rallies. If the opponent is hit or narrowly missed by the ball, a technical should be called. However, if it's the first offense, and the opponent was in no danger of being hit, a technical warning should be the call. Failure to properly wear eye protection (2 violations result in a forfeiture) If the referee is doing a proper job, there should never be a technical call because of failure to wear eye protection. Anytime you see a player without properly worn eye guards before a rally begins, tell the player to put them on. A technical should NOT be called in this case. However, if during a rally, you see a player without properly worn eye guards, immediately stop the play and call a technical. Anything considered to be unsportsmanlike behavior BROKEN BALL Under Part 4, Rule 4.6 J (Interpretation No.8): After a rally has ended, if the referee determines that the ball is broken, the preceding rally shall be played over. It should be pointed out that the ball does not have to be completely broken in order to have the point replayed. A ball that is starting to crack will often have an erratic bounce. The referee should call for a replay only if he determines that a ball has cracked sufficiently to cause an erratic bounce. If a player suspects a ball has cracked, he should immediately toss it to the referee for his inspection. The player should not push or squeeze the ball. This is the referee's responsibility and he will make the replay call if necessary.

12. Sometimes, a very small crack may be detected In this case, the referee should try to remember the previous rally and if there was any strange bounce that would indicate that the ball was defective. If the referee does recall a bad bounce, the rally should be replayed If the referee does not recall a bad bounce, the previous rally should stand. In either case, the players should be given a new ball. • COURT HINDERS • If, in the referee's opinion an erratic bounce caused by a court obstruction affected play, a "court hinder" should be called. The player should not stop play at any time in anticipation of a call. • Under Part IV, Section E (Interpretation No. 11) • Balls which skid on a wet floor will ALWAYS be called hinders, regardless of the condition of the court, again assuming that the player was in position to make a return had the ball bounced truly. • HINDER SERVES (Interpretation No.5:) • This is a difficult call because there will be instances in which the receiver will be hindered but the ball has been hit so that it is going to result in a setup and the receiver will have time to get into good position to attempt this shot. The hinder serve, like any other hinder, is based upon interference affecting the play. In the case just mentioned, there is initial interference, but the receiver still has time to get into good position so that the momentary hinder will not affect the play. In such a case, the referee should not make his call too quickly. He should watch the reaction of the receiver. If the referee feels that the receiver hesitates getting into position, a hinder serve should be called. If, however, the receiver moves quickly and obviously is going to have time to get into good position for a shot, the hinder serve should not be called.

13. The receiver should be given the benefit of any doubt so long as his receiving position is in the center of the court. However, if the receiver positions himself to one side of center or anticipates the serve is going to be hit to one side and moves in that direction too quickly, and the serve is hit to the opposite side, a hinder serve should not be called. • It is also important that the referee attempt to position himself in the middle of the court so that he will have the same angle of view as the receiver. A referee's position at the side makes it difficult to judge a hinder serve on the opposite side of the court. The best answer to this dilemma is: When in doubt, call a hinder serve. • A hinder serve does NOT cancel a previous fault, and remember, 2 consecutive hinder serves constitute a "fault.“ • HINDERS • Calling (or not calling) hinders is the most difficult part of refereeing. Remember that the player is entitled to a clear and unobstructed view and path to the ball as well as an unimpeded stroke (this includes the follow-through). Interference of one kind or another often happens during a game, but interference should not be called a "hinder" unless the interference "affected the play." • If the ball is judged to be irretrievable, a hinder should not be called no matter what kind of interference takes place. If the referee is in doubt, the benefit of that doubt should go to the player attempting to retrieve the ball and a hinder should be called. • Many "hinder problems" occur in a situation of partial obstruction. The ball might be close to the defensive player, but it is very important to NOT call a hinder too quickly in this case, especially if there appears to be an offensive opportunity for the hitter. Let the offensive player's dictate your call. It the player holds up on his/her swing or is obviously distracted, call a hinder. If the player chooses to take the shot, then they also must take the consequences, whether the shot was good or bad. Make every effort to give a player his or her shot, especially when he or she is in an offensive position.

14. Another close play sometimes occurs when a player dives for a retrieve, and the ball is rebounding right back at him or her. Again remember, do not make your "hinder" call too quickly. Give the offensive player every opportunity to take the shot. Even if his or her stroke is slightly obstructed, most players will want this shot. The player should hold up on his swing if he/she feels that there is too much obstruction. If the player who dived for the shot creates interference in his/her efforts to regain his/her feet, an AVOIDABLE HINDER should be called. • Whenever safety becomes a factor, call a hinder immediately. • Contact does not automatically mean a hinder should be called (only if it affected the play). • A ball rebounding back between a player's legs is not an AUTOMATIC hinder unless it is the rebounding serve that travels between the server's legs (hinder serve). • BACKSWING HINDERS - the player hitting the ball is the only one entitled to make this call (besides the ref), but the call must be made immediately. If it is not, the shot must stand. The player does have the option to play the shot or not. Do NOT give options after the ball is struck. Sometimes these "backswing hinders" are caused by the opponent moving in too quickly and should be called AVOIDABLE. • PLAYER HIT BY BALL • Whenever a player hits a ball that strikes the opponent before reaching the wall, if the referee is sure the ball would have reached the wall and been fair before hitting the floor, a hinder should be called. If the referee is unsure whether or not the ball would have reached the wall and been fair, a hinder should be called. • If the referee is POSITIVE (absolutely no doubt) that the ball would NOT reach the wall and been fair, a hinder should NOT be called. • During the rally, whenever a player is struck by the ball on its rebound from the wall before the ball hits the floor twice, that player loses the rally.

15. THE AVOIDABLE HINDER • This is the most controversial call in refereeing. Generally, this call is not made enough by referees. Either the referee is not knowledgeable enough to know when to call it, or the referee overlooks the obvious as they feel it may "upset" the player too much. Unfortunately, many players feel that they are being "criminally" indicted if an avoidable hinder is called against them. Nevertheless, it is the referee's responsibility to make this call whenever appropriate. Avoidable hinders MUST be called when they occur. There are NO WARNINGS. Avoidable hinders do NOT mean intentional, but intentional interferences are avoidable hinders. The avoidable hinder results in an "out" or a "point" depending upon whether the offender was serving or receiving. • Remember, if the player does not have enough time to avoid the interference, you cannot call an avoidable hinder against that player. When in doubt, DO NOT call an avoidable hinder. • If a player does not try to avoid interference, or if he/she creates interference, an avoidable hinder is the appropriate call. • AVOIDABLE HINDERS usually fall into one of the following categories: • 1.FAILURE TO MOVE-(See Interpretation No. 12) • A player does not move sufficiently to allow his opponent his shot. • The player standing further from the wall must move out of the way of his opponent even though it may mean moving to an undesirable court position. If a player does not assume such a position and there is a collision, or there is interference with the stroke of the player trying to strike the ball the hinder is avoidable. • 2. BLOCKING-(See Interpretation No. 13) • A player moves into a position that effects a block or crowds his opponent about to return the ball, or, in doubles, one partner creates a hinder NOT to be confused with a "legal" hinder by moving in front of an opponent as his partner is returning the ball.

16. 3. MOVING INTO BALL-(See Interpretation No. 14) • A player moves into the path of and is struck by the ball just played by the opponent. • 4. PUSHING-(See Interpretation No. 15) • A player forcibly pushes an opponent during a rally. • 5. VIEW OBSTRUCTION-(See Interpretation No. 16) • Moving across an opponent's line of vision just before he/she strikes the ball. • 6. DISTRACTION-(See Interpretation No. 17) • Any avoidable distraction or intimidation that would interfere with the offensive player or team. • 7. STROKE INTERFERENCE-(See InterpretationNo. 18) • Any positioning that would not allow the opponent to use a normal stroke. This especially applies to a player moving in too close and being hit by or restricting the follow-through of the player hitting the ball. Remember, a player is entitled to an unimpeded swing. This includes THE FOLLOW-THROUGH. • Even though the ball has already been hit (or missed), an avoidable hinder should be called if the player hits the opponent with their follow-through (of course assuming that the defensive player had time to get out of the way). • 8. IMPROPER EOUIPMENT-(See Interpretation No. 19) • The loss of any improperly worn equipment, or equipment not required on the court, that interferes with the play or the safety of the players. • FORFEITURES • Games cannot be forfeited, just the match. Matches may be forfeited for the following reasons: • 1. UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT (FLAGRANT). • 2. Player refuses to abide by the referee's decision.

17. 3. A player receives three technicals in a match. • 4. A player leaves the court at a time not allowed by the rules without permission of the referee. • 5. A player is 10 minutes late for his or her match, or is 10 minutes late after a time-out, glove change, or between games. If a player is late, the opponent shall be awarded one point and an additional point for each minute of delay of game up to the 10 minute forfeit time. • SERVICE CHOICE IN DOUBLES • The team winning the coin toss has their choice of serving or receiving in the first game. The other team has their choice in the second game, and the team that scored the most points in the game which they lost, has the choice of serving or receiving in the tiebreaker. • OUT OF ORDER SERVES IN DOUBLES • Read the rule, Part 4, Rule 4.3 C(6) for the ruling on out of order serve in doubles. However, it the referee is alert, there should be no out of order serves. If the referee sees that a player is about to serve out of order, the referee should immediately stop that player from serving and inform the team as to which player should be the server (see Interpretation No.7) • HINDERS IN DOUBLES • Under Part 4, Rule 4.7 C, • Both players on a side are entitled to a fair and unobstructed chance at the ball. Either one could be entitled to a hinder even though it naturally would be the partner's ball and even though the partner may have attempted to play the ball and has already missed (not touched) it. • However, if a player did hit the ball, but the ball did not reach the wall, you should not award a hinder to that player's partner, even if that player was interfered with getting to the ball. The hinder must be called before the ball is struck. • Remember that partners cannot talk after their team hits the ball. This is an avoidable hinder.

18. REMOVAL OF SPECTATORS • If a spectator is abusive, obnoxiously rooting, or coaching a player from the gallery in a distractive manner, ask them to stop. If they don't stop, have them removed from the gallery. • NEWEST RULE CHANGES • Rule 2.4 F. Headband (sweatband). Players must have access to a headband. They will not be required to wear it unless the referee deems it necessary to help keep the floor from getting wet. Rule 4.2 B (1). *Remember that 2 consecutive hinder serves has the penalty of a fault.

19. www.ushandball.orgFAQs

20. Question #1 - I have a problem with my opponents calling screen serves. While serving I position myself just behind the short line where it meets the left side line. I don't run into a problem when I serve cross court to the right. When I see my opponent guarding against my favorite serve I go to plan B. Plan B is a serve straight up the left side line in front of myself. I'm sure that the ball is visible at all times, yet many players call it a screen. A friend has told me that screen calls do not exist in one-wall handball. Is he correct? If so which rules would cover this situation? • Ray Lopez, Brooklyn, NY • Answer #1 - Firstly, your friend is 100% correct. The screen exists only in three and four- wall handball. In one-wall you are allowed to hide the ball from your opponents view. The one-wall term paralleling the screen serve is the hinder serve (see 4.3A1). The penalties as stated in 4.3B6 are identical. Two consecutive hinder serves result in a fault. With the exception of a straddle ball (see 4.3A2) the hinder serve is called the same way as a hinder during the rally. Hinder calls are based on interference and should not be made too quickly. If there is initial interference but the receiver still has time to get into good position, so that the momentary hinder will not affect the play, a hinder should not be called. The receiver gets the benefit of the doubt. This does not seem like a hinder serve. I have a feeling that your serve is difficult to return and your opponent's are taking the easy way out. I'd be careful to watch my foot faults. That might be your opponent's next line of defense.

21. Question #2 - I've incorporated the "legal" hinder into my game. The problem that arises is that my opponents think that I can stand still only when I'm closer to the wall. I'm under the impression that they are not entitled to a hinder unless I'm standing further from the wall than they are. Who is right? According to rule 4.7B1 which reads "If a player attempting to play a ball is interfered with by an opponent, who after his side has played the ball, was perfectly still in front of or aside of the player it is NOT a hinder...It is the duty of the man further from the wall to get out of the way." • Fred Sylvia, Elmont, NY • Answer #2 - You are correct. These situations usually aren't as cut and dry as they seem. A seasoned opponent will attempt to get a backswing hinder (see 4.7A5) or play the ball from behind you. The second choice will result in the blocker having to make a choice between moving and causing a hinder, or standing still and possibly being struck by the ball. Years ago players found a loophole in rule 4.6L and would tap the ball into their opponent to get a dead ball hinder. Recently this loophole has been plugged. Rule 4.7A2 states that if the referee feels that the shot obviously would not have been fair, on both the floor and the wall, the player who was hit by the shot will be awarded the rally. If there is any doubt in the official's mind, a dead ball hinder will be called.

22. Question #3 - While rebuilding the one-wall courts in Coney Island the workers left a slight imperfection behind the short line. In addition, both the short and long lines were made as expansion joints and filled with tar which has swelled due to the heat. A serve rebounding just past the short line it may deviate slightly and when the ball strikes the expansion joints, which may raised about 1/2", an erratic bounce may result. Why aren't these played as court hinders? • Rudy Rudell, Tamarack, Florida • Answer #3 - These can be played as court hinders (see 4.7A1). In the interest of fairness the court hinders should be explained to all players before the match starts. The reason that the area past the short is not played as a court hinder is that the deviation is usually a hook and not an erratic bounce. Since the short line may be raised it becomes very difficult for a low hard serve to clear the line by a hair. In my opinion the short line is a "black and white" call and therefore the most sensible way to go. The expansion joints may cause an occasional erratic bounce but playing them as court hinders can cause bigger problems. These type of court hinders require that a judgement call be made. I've seen this attempted and invariably recinded. Too many arguements ensue. The best house rule I've seen, in regard to the expansion joints, is that any legal serve striking the long line will be played as a dead ball hinder. This is a good compromise because the receiver usually has a chance to return this serve. The worst house rule I've seen, regarding these expansion joints, is that any serve that deviates near the short line is a fault. Why call a potential ace short?

23. Question #4 - While playing in a tournament I served deep at my opponent's feet. The ball landed squarely on the long line but the linesman called it long. I appealed to the referee but he did not change the call. Doesn't he have the power to substitute his call? • Angel Marquez, Bronx, NY • Answer #4 - Yes, the referee can substitute his call for the linesman's (see 3.5B). In addition, the referee may appeal to the linesmen if he is uncertain of his own call (see 3.6B). In either case the referee may then reverse or nullify it. The outcome may result in a fault, a point, a handout, or a replay. For specific situations that might arise refer to rule 3.6A. In most cases the referee will only substitute his call if the linesman was uncertain and/or obviously incorrect. You would be hard pressed to find a referee who would substitute his call on a close play if the linesman assured him that the call was indeed correct.

24. Question #5 - While officiating a match on an extremely humid day the ball would frequently skid on the floor. To compound the problem we were near the beach and the floor was sandy. How should I have handled this problem? • Mike Falcis, Queens, NY • Answer #5 - There are a few steps you could have taken to improve the situation. Firstly, make frequent inspections of the ball and the players gloves to assure that both are dry. Inform the players that under 4.6I "delibrately wetting the ball results in an out or point". Secondly, get a broom and sweep off the court whenever there is a break in the action. This will be easier than trying to determine if there should be a replay (see 4.7A1). Thirdly, inform the players that balls which skid on the floor may result in a replay. You'll have a much easier time once the sand has been removed and the players realize that some of their good shots may wind up being replayed.

25. Question #6 - Whileplaying, at the one-wall courts in Far Rockaway, it seemed as if my opponent was taking more than 10 seconds to serve the ball. He explained to me that he may be entitled to additonal time before the referee calls the score, and that he can not serve until the score is called. This seems like it could amount to quite alot of time. If he is correct what can I do to cut down this time? • Eduardo Maisonet, Queens, NY • Answer #6 - Your opponent was right on both counts (see rule 4.1). After the rally is over, the referee should immediately call "point" or "side out". The receiver than has 10 seconds to assume his ready position, but the serve should only have "reasonable time" to get set. Remember when playing outdoors it may take a while to retrieve a ball that has been lost in the bushes, etc.. The server should not be allowed to stall by slowly retrieving the ball. As soon as the receiver is "ready" and the server has had a reasonable time to retreive the ball, the referee should call the score, at which time the server has 10 seconds in which to make contact with his service attempt. If the receiver is in his ready position and the referee believes that the server is taking too much time retrieving the ball and assuming his serving position, the referee should call the score. The server will then have 10 seconds in which to serve. If the receiver is not in his ready position after 10 seconds have elapsed from the time the referee calls "point" or "side out", the referee should call the score and the server may serve immediately or take up to 10 seconds, whether or not the receiver is ready. The best way to cut down on time between serves is to assume your position as quickly as possible. It may also help to check that the referee is familiar with this rule before the match begins.

26. Question #7 - The score was 0-0 in the tiebreaker when the match had to be delayed due to rain. I wanted to start the match over but my opponent, and the tournament director, insisted that the action pick up just where it stopped. Is there a rule governing this situation? • Eduardo Maisonet, Queens, NY • Answer #7 - Actually I'm glad that you asked this question because in searching the 1993 one-wall rule book I couldn't find it. During the latest printing this rule must have been deleted by mistake. Luckily I keep copies of the old rule books and was able to locate this rule. Postponed by referee, which should have been listed as 4.10E, reads "any games postponed by the referee (due to the weather) shall be resumed with the same score". It turns out that your opponent, and the tournament director, were correct. It tough to restart that late in the match but that how it must be.

27. Question #8 - At 9-9 in the tiebreaker I served what I thought would be a unreturnable ball and yelled "ace". My opponent did reach the ball on one bounce but did not return it legally. At this point the receiver argued with the referee that an avoidable hinder should be called. He reminded the official that as the receiver he deserved the benefit of the doubt. The referee would not budge and gave me the point. My opponent wants to know what should have happened? • Angel Marquez, Bronx, NY • Answer #8 - This is a situation that requires a judgement to be made by the referee. Rule 4.8F states that any avoidable distraction or intimidation that would interfere with the offensive player, or team, would be an avoidable hinder. interpretation 17 informs us that players can not say anything while an opponent is playing the ball. Teammates may talk to each other only when it is their turn to hit the ball. If the referee believes that such behavior is distracting enough to the opponent as to affect his play, an avoidable hinder should be called. This is a real tough one and I'm sure that if the official let the call stand he must have felt very strongly that the receiver was not distracted dispite what occured. Lastly as a word of advice, keep quite until the ball bounces twice. Instead of serving for the match you could have been receiving at 9-9.

28. Question #9 - While playing in a doubles match one of my opponents called a backswing hinder and then I was struck by the ball before the second bounce. My opponent told me that his side wins the rally because I got hit. I thought that a hinder stops all play. Why should I be out? • Richie Spataro, Long Island, NY • Answer #9 - A hinder call stops the play and USUALLY voids any situation that follows, such as the ball hitting a player who stopped playing because of the call. However if, the call was NOT responsible for the player being hit by the ball it will be a point or handout

29. Question #10 - While Playing doubles I crossed the imaginary service line to return a lob serve. My opponent insisted that his team was entitled to a point. My partner disagreed but didn't feel like arguing because we were up 3-15. After we won the game I forgot to ask my partner to explain the rule to me. Maybe you could set me straight. What is the rule? • Ervin Irizarry, Bronx, NY • Answer #10 - The receiver(s) must stand in back of the service line until the ball, from the wall, passes the short line. any violation results in a point for the server.

30. Question #11 - My opponent returned the serve, I swung at and completely missed the ball which then landed off the court. My opponent argued that it should be a handout because I missed the ball before it landed outside the playing zone. I know that I'm entitled to the point. My opponent refuses to admit that he was wrong and needs to see it in print. • Emmitt Fitzpatrick, Queens, NY • Answer #11 - Any ball in play, after the service, striking outside the sidelines or past the longline, is an out or point. during tournament play, the players should not catch balls they assume to be out. The referee will award an out or point.

31. Question #12 - I frequently play against opponents who yell "good" or "out" while I'm playing the ball. They are attempting to trick me into hitting a ball which may land outside or vice versa. We usually get into an argument and wind up playing it a dead ball. How should they be penalized? • Buddy Gantt, Brooklyn, NY • Answer #12 - The penalty should be an avoidable hinder. A player can not say anything while an opponent is playing the ball. This is also true in doubles. Teammates may talk to each other when it is their turn to hit the ball, but can not talk when it is the opponent's turn to hit the ball. Sometimes a player will verbally reprimand himself after hitting a poor shot while the rally is still in progress. If the referee believes such behavior is distracting enough to the opponent as to affect his play, an avoidable hinder.

32. Question #13 - While participating in the Junior doubles final of the U.S.H.A. One-Wall Nationals I noticed that the server's foot was extending outside of the service zone. During a time out I asked the linesman why he was not calling these foot faults. The referee overheard the discussion and showed me a one-wall rule book which stated that the foot may not TOUCH outside of the service zone. I went home and checked the rule book I have at home, it uses EXTEND. What is the reason for this? • Mike Rosner Brooklyn, N.Y. • Answer #13 - STEPPING OUTSIDE, rule 6.1d of the One-Wall Unified Playing Rules, used EXTEND, and made reference to the fact that stepping ON (but not beyond) any line of the service zone was permitted. In my opinion this lead to the interpretation that the server's foot must actually TOUCH outside of the service zone for the linesman to call "foot fault". When the one-wall rule book was republished in 1991, EXTEND was replaced by TOUCH to insure that the wording agreed with the popular interpretation. The Rules Committee agreed that in order to avoid confusion rules which are in common to all forms of handball should be worded and interpreted identically. In the current One-Wall Rule Book, under rule 4.1C Place, you will find that EXTEND was replaced by TOUCH. Also, the phrase about being allowed to step on (but not beyond) any line of the service zone has been deleted. Now the rule is worded and interpreted identically.

33. Question #14 - While playing singles against Henry I served the ball close to myself and stood still. My opponent claimed that the serve was illegal because it had passed within 18 inches of my body. I had never heard of this but since Henry seemed sure we decided to play the serve as a dead ball. Was there a rule change that I'm not aware of? • Abe Mantell, Long Island, N.Y. • Answer #14 - No there was not. Henry is wrong, at least when it comes to one-wall handball. This may be a rule pertaining to screen serves in paddleball or racquetball. It seems that the erroneous use of the term screen serve has confused many players. As you know "screens" are allowed in one-wall handball and the correct term is "hinder serve". As the name implies the proper time to make this call is when MOVEMENT by the serving side has hindered the receiving side's attempt to return the ball. This call, like any other hinder, is based on interference affecting the play. If there is initial interference, but the receiver still has time to get into good position, a hinder should not be called. In such a case the referee should not make his call to quickly. he should watch the reaction of the receiver. The receiver should be given the benefit of any doubt, as long as he is properly positioned. The exception is when the served ball, from the wall, passes through the SERVER'S legs. In this case the hinder is automatic. The penalties for screen and hinder serves are identical. Two CONSECUTIVE violations result in a fault.

34. Question #15 - While playing doubles on the one-wall courts at Brighton Beach an opponent hit a ball that struck the wall in fair territory and then hit my partner, who was positioned outside of the playing zone, on a fly. I know that under normal circumstances my team should lose the rally, but the ball was obviously going to land outside. I thought the rule was changed but the other players agreed with my opponent's opinion that my side still loses the rally. Is this true? • Artie "Butterhup" Cussell, Brooklyn, N.Y. • Answer #15 - Yes it is. Except as provided in rule 4.7A2, any touching of a ball before it touches the floor a second time by a player other than the one making a return is a point or out against the offending side. Furthermore, during tournament play, the players must not catch balls that they assume to be out. Referee will award an out or point (see 4.6G & H). I think that you were a little confused. The rule that was recently changed pertains to the ball hitting an opponent on the way to the wall (see 4.7A2).

35. Question #16 - A dispute I have frequently been confronted with as a player and a referee is distinquishing if or when a follow through can constitute a hinder. As a common example consider hitting a passing-shot through the center when your opponent is on your left side. When hit hard it is not unusual for the offensive player to be continuing his follow through as the ball is passing his body. The receiver seems to have a good arguement that this movement creates a distraction, block the path to the ball, and or obstructs his vision. If your movement is only a continuation of your natural swing, can your opponent call a hinder? Could the proximity to the ball or the position of the receiver make a difference? • There are many instances where a cheap hinder can be called based on the movement during the follow through. Are there times when the receiver is entitled to a legitimate hinder? This arguement has come up more than usual recently...Please advise!! • Daniel Zimet, Philadelphia, PA • Answer #16 - Assuming that the opponent who has just struck the ball did NOT execute a "legal hinder", by standing still in front or aside of the receiver (see 4.7B1), the $64,000 question is "was there interference affecting the play?". If the ball is judged to be unretrievable, a hinder should NOT be called no matter what kind of interference takes place. However, if the referee is in doubt, the benefit of that doubt should go to the player attempting to retrieve the ball and the hinder should be called.

36. Question #17 - I noticed that "safety holdup" is listed in the 1-wall rulebook. I was under the impression that this rule had been omitted from the 1-wall rules. Please clear up the confusion. • Charlie Sheldon, Queens, NY • Answer #17 - Many years ago the "safety hinder" was added to the 1-wall rulebook. It covered the situation of a receiver playing a ball that was passing between his opponent's legs. Opponents of this rule argued successfully that this situation was no more dangerous than having to play a ball passing close to an opponent's head. In addition, it violated the basic right of a player to legally block his opponent(s). Lastly, the player could choose to avoid the risk by moving and thereby creating a hinder. Within a short period of time the "safety hinder" was dropped from the rulebook. In recent years the "safety holdup" was added to the rulebook. It addresses the other side of the coin. Mainly, the safety of the player striking the ball. It covers the situation of stroke interference during the backswing, foreswing, and follow-through. A player about to execute a return may immediately stop play and request a hinder. The referee may grant the hinder if the holdup was reasonable and the player otherwise might have been able to return the ball. The referee can call an avoidable hinder if warranted (see 4.8G). The "safety holdup" does not affect the rules on legal hinders.

37. Question #18 - While playing, in the Mayor's Cup tournament, I drove the ball pass my opponent and subsequently was struck by the ball before it bounced twice. I was under the impression that since my opponent clearly had no chance to return the ball I would be awarded the rally. The referee disagreed with me. Who is correct? • Dan Silva, Brooklyn, NY • Answer #18 - The referee made the right call. This rule has not been changed because the feeling is that the additional judgement calls create additional problems. Do NOT get hit by the ball and you will not have a problem

38. Question #19 - The rally ended, and the referee called the score. My partner stepped into the service zone and realized that the ball was broken. Our opponents argued that since the previous rally had ended it's result stands. Please settle the dispute. • Howie Kadish, Roslyn, NY • Answer #19 - According to the rulebook "once a succeeding serve is attempted, the previous rally stands".

39. Question #20 - While refereeing a 1-wall match, a player's hat flew off her head and landed outside the playing area. I know that a hat is considered non-essential equipment. Since the hat did NOT interfere with the play or the safety of the players I allowed them to continue playing. Did I do the right thing? • Dori Ten, Brooklyn, NY • Answer #20 - Since the hat did NOT interfere with the play or the safety of the players you did make the proper decision. If properly worn essential equipment, or a foreign object, or any other outside interference occurs, the referee shall stop the rally if it interferes with the continuance of play or poses an immediate danger. However, safety permitting, one rally ending attempt should be allowed.

40. Question #21 - While playing in the USHA/ICHA 1-Wall Junior Nationals, my opponent hit a shot which angled off the court. I managed to make the return, despite the fact that there was spectator interference, and run back into the playing zone. My reward was having my opponent hit a sharper angle back into the crowd. This time I didn't even bother trying to make the retrieve. Shouldn't I have been entitled to a hinder? • Cesar Sala, Brooklyn, NY • Answer #21 - You might have been entitled to a hinder on your first attempt. But, since you have left out some important information I can only quote the pertinent rules. After reading their interpretation you will have to try to decide whether or not the correct call was made. The referee does have jurisdiction over the spectators, as well as the players, while the match is in progress. If a "non-seated" spectator or official interferes with a player in his attempt to play a ball, it is a hinder. By non-seated we mean not in the area designated for spectators. A good referee will, before the game begins, check with the players to make sure that sufficient playing area has been provided. In addition, the referee will inform the players that they are NOT entitled to an unlimited playing area and will NOT be granted a hinder for interference occurring within the area designated for spectators. In instances where sufficient playing area cannot be provided the players should be notified that in the interest of safety a dead-ball hinder will be granted for interference preventing a player from having a fair chance to see or return the ball.

41. Question #22 - If my opponent pushes me into the ball am I out? • Allison Wickland, Bronx, NY • Answer #22 - Let us assume that you, or your partner, has just struck the ball and it is still "in play". By "in play" I mean that it has not been called "out" (see rule 4.6H) by the official. Common sense dictates that (as stated in rule 4.7B2) if a player on the side that has just hit the ball is moved or pushed unintentionally into, or prevented from getting out of the way of, the ball by an opponent trying to play the ball, it is a dead ball hinder.

42. Question #23 - In my effort to return a deep serve, I contact the linesman with my backswing. Am I entitled to a hinder? Cesar Sala, Brooklyn NY • Answer #23 - From the One-Wall Rulebook: Rule 3.4B1 Spectators. The referee shall have jurisdiction over the spectators, as well as the players, while the match is in progress (See Rule 5.6). A ball that hits an official or spectator before hitting the wall shall be judged as if it had hit an opponent (See Rule 4.7A2). If a "non-seated" spectator or official interferes with a player in his attempt to play a ball, it is a hinder. In the interest of safety, when sufficient playing area cannot be provided, the referee may call a dead-ball hinder for interference that prevents a player from having a fair chance to see or return the ball (See Rule 4.7A7).

43. Question #24 - While playing a doubles match, my opponent drives the ball at his partner who is standing close to the wall. The player jumps up, to avoid being hit by the ball, which passes through his legs. My partner is standing right behind him and manages to make the return which is then killed by our opponent. I know that hinders are not appeallable calls but the referee admitted that he thought it was a hinder but wasn't able to make the call, or stop the play before my opponent attempted to hit the next shot, because the situation occurred to quickly. Tony Roberts, Queens, NY • Answer #24 - Our opponents stated that they had expected the ref to call a hinder but the call was not made and play continued. Furthermore they asked "what would have happened if they weren't able to legally return the hindered player's shot?" Can the referee still grant my partner a hinder?The rules allow the referee to change his call after the rally has stopped.

44. Question #25 - The referee called me out for committing an avoidable hinder. When I requested that he appeal the call I was told that this is not an appeallable call, and that since he is sure of the call will not confer with the linesmen. My partner refused to take the call and began to verbal abuse and sling profanity at the referee. The referee then told us that if we didn't play ball he would call the score and tell our opponent to serve the ball. My partner still refused to play ball and continued his behavior. The referee then defaulted my team. Was this handled correctly?Charles Manse, Brooklyn NY • Answer #25 - Was it handled correctly by whom? Let's look at a few things here. The avoidable is not an appeallable call. The referee's call would stand.A technical should be called whenever a player uses profanity that cannot be heard on major network t.v. A technical is also the right call for "excessive arguing with the referee."The rulebook states that a match is forfeited when three technicals are called on the same player/team. It also says that a match can be forfeited for flagrant unsportsman-like behavior.Once a player has been told to play ball and 10 seconds has elapsed, the referee can call the score and the server must serve within 10 seconds.So, it seems that the technical calls should have preceded the forfeit in this situation.

45. Question #26 - While refereeing a doubles match the serve hit the long line. The linesman called the serve long and the receiver did not make the return. The server questioned the call and the linesman admitted that he had made a mistake and that the ball had indeed hit the long line. What is the proper way to handle this situation?Glen Winokur, Queens NY • Answer #26 - The line is in play, so the linesman's admission was correct. Referees do make mistakes and the rules say it is OK for referees to change their calls. The only question to answer in such a situation before telling the server he has two serves is to determine if the serve would have been returnable. If the receiver had no chance to make a return and the referee or linesman's call didn't keep him from attempting to make a return, the server may be awarded a point for an ace. This would be rare since the referee should be sure his call didn't keep the receiver from making a full effort.

46. www.ushandball.orgYou make the call

47. Paul Williams would be called out for getting hit with the ball before it bounced twice.

48. Ed Golden would NOT be called out for getting pushed into the ball by Carl Accurso. The referee would need to feel that Ed was going to get hit anyway in order to call him out.

49. Dave Rojas would be charged with a foot fault for stepping over the short line.

50. This rally would be stopped and all four players would be charged with technicals for not wearing their eye protection properly. • A second violation, for the same reason, would result in the offending player being defaulted.