Pick question

[msirvine]

I'm pretty sure I know the answer to this, but I want to be sure.

This week, I was on defense and poached off the player I was guarding to move into the end zone, where I saw a receiver on the run being chased by one of my teammates. Thus, at this point there were two defenders on one receiver. We were both within 10 feet of this receiver, but I had to stop because another player from the other team backed into me. My teammate was not blocked and continued to chase.

I yelled "Pick!" but then there was some doubt as to whether I could because I was not the original defender on that receiver, and there was still another defender in play. I've never encountered this situation before, but I think that it was a fair call because I was within 10 feet and actively trying to cover that offensive player. If there's something I'm missing, please let me know.

XVI. I. 1. A pick occurs whenever an offensive player moves in a manner that causes a defensive player guarding (II.G) an offensive player to be obstructed by another player. Obstruction may result from contact with, or the need to avoid, the obstructing player.

Guarding: A defender is guarding an offensive player when they are within three meters of that offensive player and are reacting to that offensive player. [There's no limit to how many guards an offensive player can have, right? So long as they are within three meters and focused on that one offensive player?]

[GregS]

I believe your interpretation is correct, yes.

There's no limit to how many guards an offensive player can have, right? So long as they are within three meters and focused on that one offensive player?

Except for the thrower, obviously.

[SoulMiner]

I agree with that. I've never seen anything in the rules about being only allowed 1 Defender per Offensive player (except for the space rule on the Thrower). If you want to put 2 or 3 people on the opponent's best player, that is your right, and each of those players has an equal right to play defence (i.e. not be 'picked'). In fact, that often happens on long throws - anyone in the area leaves their man and goes for the disc.

As further proof, since he is a Hall Of Fame Poacher, Greg's approval of what you were doing while poaching takes precedence over UPA Rules.

Ted