Question Number: 20208

Mechanics 10/10/2008

RE: rec Adult

alex of richmond hill, ontario canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 20184

I also use verbal warnings to players as the CR. However, I once warned 2 players fighting for the ball in front of me as an AR to keep their hands down. After that I thought is it the responsibility of the CR? Am I overstepping the AR authority as this is not the responsibility of the AR as per LOTR. The CR at that match seems to be ok with me telling the players not to use their hands but some other CR might not like it.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

'AR' stands not only for Assistant Referee, but also Another Referee. You have been trained to do more than call ball out of play and offside. You also are likely to be a center referee from time to time. You have eyes on the game for a reason - to back up and assist the referee.

I like my AR's to talk to the players. (At least those AR's with a bit of experience; I also work with a lot of newbies an U12 games where they need to focus almost exclusively on offside.) It helps me in several ways. It tells me the AR is paying attention. It might alert me to a problem that I wasn't aware of. The AR hasn't forced me into a position of either having to stop play or wave him down, as I would be if he had signalled with the flag. It shows a more human side for the entire referee team when dealing with the players.

If a center doesn't want you talking with players, she'll tell you at halftime.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

A good AR is the representative of the CR, especially when the CR is busy elsewhere. The TEAM concept of officiating is far preferable to the ?(I am in sole control centre referees)" This is why communication, the eye contact the pre and post game discussions are so valuable. A calming voice of reason to settle a player or players down is ok as long as you are not doing something contrary like second guessing or disputing a CRs call. Ask in the pregame, if the CR does not cover such topics. Pregames at recreational level are often too short and vague. Just because things go could go well without one, does not mean they can be ignored. Being lucky is not the same as being prepared!
Cheers