Question Number: 19625

Mechanics 7/19/2008

RE: Rec Under 18

Stéphane of moncton, nb Canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 19610

Alright so just to follow up on my question in south eastern NB we are very short on ref so unless it is a AAA or a senior game there are never any AR so I usually warn the players that I will do my best but that I cannot see everything on my own especially for the offsides I tell them if it is questionable for me like its too close for me to call play will continue. Do you guys have a better way of doing this because that is why most refs don't last long in my league because they are forced to ref under 16 games where play is fast on there own any suggestions?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

My usual spiel as a single official
I am Fair but not perfect! enjoy yourselves any questions?

A more detailed spiel
I am Fair but not perfect. It is unwise to argue. Play the whistle. It is unwise to argue. You run offside traps better hope I am in a position to see it because I do not call offside unless 100% positive it is offside. It is unwise to argue. Subs on your ball posession only at the midline before a stoppage or at my discretion! It is unwise to argue. Have fun any questions?

A single official who shows effort to stay with play, anticipates well understands the game and recognizes that the players' safety and fun actually matters can generally make it through a match. Fair, firm and fun, crack a smile and be seen as a human being who is doing the best he can but take no garbage from those who try to find the right buttons to push!

My colleagues may advise on offside call every other one only don't tell them when. When questioned by players on offside I tell them play the bloody whistle! Standing around with your arm up to ask to go to the bathroom simply does not cut it!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

On a solo match I'll tell the captains I whistle every other 'close' offside.

They won't know when I start or what I consider close so they usually don't open their mouths. First player to complain goes in the the book for dissent and that usually stops the bitching. I actually don't so that but just do the best I can with what I see. They just think I'm calling every other one...

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

I always tell them that without AR's they run the trap at their own risk. I will get it wrong and to run the trap is to do it at your own peril.