Question Number: 19555

Mechanics 7/2/2008

Joseph of Montreal, QC Canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 18661

I just read in the question of reference that 2 refs are used in one game. I heard a rumour that if we decided to do a 2-referee system they take away your highest badge on the spot.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Great Rumor! Maybe it will become truth...

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Most High School games are played under the authority of the NFHS, which is not affiliated with USSF or FIFA. Thus they are free to make their own rules. And make them they do, including running a game with 2 referees and no assistants.

Far too many referees, when doing a game under USYS/USSF/FIFA authority, forget they can't use the NFHS systems. One AR doesn't show up, and they think, 'We can do a dual!' Not so. I like your solution of taking away the badge. Remember the old TV Western 'Branded', where during the opening theme and credits they stripped the guy of his stripes and buttons before casting him out of the fort and into the wilderness. Maybe we could create a similar ceremony.

Far better, of course, would be to educate the referees that we have to run a game properly. That's easier to do than to train a newbie to take his place. Unfortunately, there are those few who just refuse to listen and learn.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

I think I'd rather have both referees following this absurd 2 man system be shot on the spot

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 19695