Rule Submission TitleGame Ball Selection
USAP Board Voting StatusFailed
USAP Rules Committee Voting StatusFailed: Game ball selection is adequately covered in the referee handbook.
Existing Rule #5.A.1 (or new rule)
Proposed Rule Change

5.A.1. Any fair method shall be used to determine which player or team has first choice of end, serve, receive, or defer (e.g., a 1 or 2 written on the back of the score sheet, flipping a coin). If the winner chooses to serve or receive first, the loser chooses the starting end. If the winner chooses the starting end, the loser chooses to serve or receive. Once a selection has been made, it cannot be changed.

5.A.x The player or team that serves first in a match shall choose the game ball. The ball shall not be replaced during the match except as permitted by Rule 11.E.

Original Rule Text

5.A.1. Any fair method shall be used to determine which player or team has first choice of end, serve, receive, or defer (e.g., a 1 or 2 written on the back of the score sheet, flipping a coin). If the winner chooses to serve or receive first, the loser chooses the starting end. If the winner chooses the starting end, the loser chooses to serve or receive. Once a selection has been made, it cannot be change

Reasoning Behind Suggested Change

To codify who is responsible for selecting the game ball and to clarify when the ball can be replaced.

Rule Book Year2023
Rule Change ID582
Date CreatedJune 30, 2022
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