Question Number: 20011

Law 18 - Common Sense 9/20/2008

RE: AYSO Other

Andrew Crews of Shelby Twp, Michigan USA asks...

I know this is going to be a rather strange question but I am going to ask it anyways.
If the referee were to start feeling ill 'suffering from possible heat stroke' at a match and no AR's is it permissible for him to abandon the match, or just try to tough it out? I know in my AYSO region if there is no referee the coaches just ref, but I don't think that would be a good idea to just give the match to the coaches. Any suggestions?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

If you are ill, suffering possible heat stroke or dehydration, it can be very dangerous to continue a game. If there is no AR or other person available who can take over the match, it must be terminated.

You wouldn't expect a ref who suffered a broken ankle tripping over a clump of grass to continue, would you? (Although I have unwisely finished a game with a sprained ankle when I didn't know the extent of my hurt, and once finished up a game poorly when I pulled a muscle with about 8 minutes to go. The things we will do sometimes to prove our toughness!)

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

If you think you have heat stroke then by all means stop the match and withdraw yourself from the action. You would be insane to try to 'tough it out' if you have heat stroke. That's a good way to seriously injure yourself or even die. Get yourself whatever attention you need and let the coaches worry about the game. Always bring plenty of fluids and some ice to any match you are officiating

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Andrew,
such a condition could be life threatening, convulsions, organ failure, brain and heart damage of course you terminate and check yourself in for medical intervetion. You say I am sorry but I am sick and unable to do this match. If you have options to get in touch with the assignor or have another referee to take over or if the league is fine with a coach does a half then that is what we do in the interest f the kids to play the game. The need for a competative victory does not have to outweight the fun to play if those participating actually undestand the principles of FAIRPLAY, GAME and FUN!
Also in mulitiple game situations particularily long hot weekend tournaments WATER WATER everywhere and LOTS and LOTS to DRINK! Cheers

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

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