When does the clock start in relation to the kickoff?

The correct answer is that the clock starts when the referee blows the whistle to signal the kickoff. This is a critical moment because the whistle indicates the official start of the match or the restart after a goal is scored. Until the whistle is blown, players are positioned and prepared, but the match is not yet in play. The act of kicking the ball is part of the play itself, but the timing for the clock specifically begins with the referee's signal. This ensures that timekeeping is consistent and clear across all matches.

The act of players taking their positions is important for the formation of teams but does not dictate the start of the match. The completion of the kickoff refers to the ball moving into play; however, the timing of the game is already recorded from the whistle. Therefore, the referee's whistle is the clear definition of when the game clock starts.