Re: starting the serve outside of the playing space

[EMAIL PROTECTED] (John McCabe) writes:

> USAV Rule 17.4
> "The first referee authorizes the service after having checked that
> the server is in possession of the ball in the service zone, on the
> playable surface, and the teams are ready to play [Signal 16]."

John, you've misquoted this rule I'm afraid. You've left out a very
important "OR" clause namely "or free zone behind the end line."

Pasted directly from 
http://usavolleyball.org/media/rulesofficials/04rulebook/indoor/0304_RB_Rules.pdf

17.4 AUTHORIZATION OF THE SERVICE
The first referee authorizes the service after having checked that the
server is in possession of the ball in the service zone ***or free
zone behind the end line***, on a playable surface, and the teams are
ready to play [Signal 16].

The casebook reinforces this OR that permits beginning the service
action outside the the zone with this case:

Rule 17
9. Prior to serving the ball, S-1 is standing with the left foot near
   the right service zone marker and the right foot on the floor
   clearly outside the service zone. Just before contacting the ball
   for service, S-1 raises the right foot off the floor.
        RULING: Legal service. The server was contacting the floor
        inside the service zone at contact of the ball for service. (17.5.1)
10. At the time of service, S-1 is touching the line marking the left
    side of the service zone.  RULING: Legal service. The width of the
    service zone includes the full width of both service zone
    lines. (17.5.1 & 1.4.2) 


Best Regards, 
--
Todd Haverkos  [EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.vbref.org/