Anyone know the 7 man mechanics for a free kick after a fair catch?
I'm thinking the kickers line would be the same as a kickoff (U and BJ) and the receivers line would also be the same (SJ and FJ). That leaves the R, H, and L. Who goes under the uprights, and where does the "odd man" go? Thanks.
Here are the instructions from the GHSA mechanics manual.
FREE KICK AFTER FAIR CATCH OR AWARDED FAIR CATCH
Relative positioning of officials is similar to that for a field goal or kick try except as noted here. Take care that this is a free kick formation and free kick rules apply even though the relative officials’ positioning is more like that for a scrimmage kick down.
Referee: Hands the ball to the kicker pre-kick and remains with the kicker during the kick. He is responsible for all action on or by the kicker.
Umpire and Side Judge: Initial position is on the sidelines on the receivers’ restraining line (U occupies the same sideline as the HL). Zone coverage should be used once the ball has been kicked. Concentrate on action by the receivers with each official focusing on action out toward his sideline from the middle of the field.
Head-Line-Judge and Line Judge: Initial position is on the kickers’ restraining line. Zone coverage should be used once the ball has been kicked. Concentrate on action by the kickers with each official focusing on action out toward his sideline from the middle of the field.
Back Judge and Field Judge: Position behind the goal posts, same as for a field goal attempt. Responsibilities are the same on this play as for a field goal attempt.
All: This situation is rare. The focus of the teams is likely to be on the success or failure of the kick. However, this play is like any other free kick down with the exception of the opportunity to score three points. A ball that falls short but in the field of play remains live and is subject to recovery by either team and advancement by the receivers.
