Managing the Wall

Once a free kick is granted, the offense does not have to wait for the defense or the official. The defense has no "right" to set up a wall or delay the kick.

However, often the defense will remain too close to the spot of the foul and the offense will try to improve the position of the free kick. The closest referee should stop the game and "set-up" a free kick if it is clear that the offense cannot make a quick restart.

3 Yards Distance
The defense is required to remain at a distance of 3 yards away from the free kick. This distance is the equivalent of 3 "giant steps" away from the spot of the kick. No defensive player may be within that radius.

Creating a Wall
Once it is clear that the offense cannot quickly restart the ball, the closest official should blow their whistle and stop play. Loudly announce to the offense that they may now not play the ball until they are directed to do so by the officials. First, set the ball directly at the spot of the foul. Remind the offense not to move, touch or kick the ball at this point. Second, march off the required 3 yards. Move any defensive players within that zone back to outside of the radius.

Once the defensive wall is set, back out of the area slowly. Never turn your back on the play or the players. Wait until you are properly stationed and then blow your whistle to let play commence.

Remember to give either the direct or indirect free kick signal as you whistle play to begin.

Also, always make sure that play does not begin before your whistle.

Encroachment
No defensive players may be within a 3 yard radius of the spot of a free kick. This includes goal kicks, corners and kick-ins.

On a "quick restart" if a defensive player, within the 3 yard radius, makes an active play at the ball the kick shall be stopped. If the offense plays the ball to the defender - with no action on the defender's part - the ball remains in play without penalty.

Yellow Cards

Once the distance has been marked off, 3 yards in all directions, the defense may not break this plane until the ball is struck.

Moving in before the kick will result in an automatic yellow card. Also, any defensive players running into the zone between the wall and the kick must be carded as well.

Game Tempo
Move slowly and deliberately when creating a wall. It is a good time to assess the playing situation and deal with any unwanted behavior. Make sure that while the ball is dead that the other officials monitor the interaction between the two teams. Watch for taunts and physical contact - none of the officials should turn their backs on the play or the players.