[Rich Wong]

There was a safety issue with the ramp in the up position. It can be a big hazard if the ramp was dropped during the opening of the gate at the end of a match. Referees, students and volunteers are known to just jumped the fence and their foot may land near or on the foot-print of the ramp.

I know at the NJ and NYC regional there was some concern about the ramp dropping down with someone near it. Instructions for the "Gate Keeper" was to drop the ramp first before anyone (referees and volunteers) start entering the field area.

I would assume at the off-season comps the rule are a little more lax. Maybe that is why "caution" tape was added. Somebody saw the hazard and was proactive.