running time instead of start/stop

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Playing time for a Varsity game must be 12 minutes except under unusual circumstances like weather.  In those instances both head coaches and the referee can agree to 10 minute quarters.  The rulebook does not dictate that the 12 minutes be start-stop so with agreement of both coaches and the referee the game could be played with 12 minute running time quarters.  Sub-Varsity games can be played with 10 minute start-stop time or 12-minute running time.  No game should ever exceed 12 minutes whether it be start-stop or running time.

Rule 3 ART. 1 . . . The regulation playing time of a high school varsity game shall be four periods of 12 minutes.

Rule 3.1.1 SITUATION A: In a junior varsity or youth game, may both coaches agree to play: (a) 10-minute quarters (b) 12-minute running-time quarters? RULING: Legal in both cases.

Rule 3.1.1 SITUATION B: Team B requests that the game time be reduced to 10-minute periods to accommodate a lengthy return trip home on a school night. RULING: The rules do not provide authority to agree to play anything other than 12-minute periods prior to or during the game. (Exception: 3.5 Situation)

Rule 3.5 SITUATION: Because of a situation beyond the control of the responsible authorities (weather, etc.), a game is interrupted. Prior to resuming play, the head coach of Team A requests that the remainder of the game be played with 10-minute quarters. RULING: Provided both head coaches and the referee agree, this would be allowed due to the unusual circumstances.

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