Question Number: 21237

Mechanics 4/29/2009

RE: Competative Under 17

Al Sinopoli of Covington, LA USA asks...

Mechanics Question for AR:

I was an AR on one-sided 5-0 game, and I spent the first half on the scoring end. For about 3/4th of that time, I was between the 18 and the goal line. My habit is that when I get down between the 'six' and the corner, I keep the flag in my right hand at my side with the flag visible to the referee, as I am most likely to either be:

1) turning to run upfield (if I'm moving to the corner, given the proximity I'll be side-stepping)
2) signaling for a corner
3) signaling for a goal kick
4) signaling offside

All items use the right hand, so I feel this is the most efficient technique.

I received a mechanics comment from the other AR that my flag should always be in the hand closest to the referee (i.e the left hand when I am down in the corner) and then switch hands for any signal. The center ref, a state referee and instructor, indicated this is true.

In the guide to procedures, I only find that 'the flag should be held straight down and visible to the referee'. Obviously this means the flag should face the field if your body is turned when running up or down field, and that the flag must be visible otherwise. I cannot find anywhere where it says that my technique is incorrect (or that the AR must hold the flag in the hand closest the referee). I feel the way I hold the flag still meets the procedure and furthermore, improves reaction times when needed for the majority of situations in this position.

Obviously in the second half, the flag was mostly in my left hand as I spent much of it standing attention at midfield or running back towards goal.

So, in your understanding, should I modify my technique or is this acceptable?

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

'Visible to the referee' has meant in your left hand for as long as I've been a referee, instructor and assessor (for the diagonal run by most American refs - obviously it moves to the right hand on reverse diagonals).

Does it mean what you are doing is wrong per se? No. But it does mean you will continue to get flak for it, and if your ambition is to advance as a referee, it will cause you some rather unnecessary grief. The time it takes to switch hands is miniscule for an experienced referee, and should cause no loss of concentration or efficiency.

While I understand your reasoning, I would simply say there is a chance the referee will miss your flag when it is between you and the goal line, meaning the referee will not be easily able to see you when he looks to find you quickly.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Habits are hard to break! ;0)
I still turn sideways for goal kicks and face the field for offside.
If you are looking to make an impact and advance get use to the left hand moving down to the flag, switch to right as required and when you fast track up the field. Then when stopped or side stepping move back to the left. Switching hands is also an excuse to think a bit. The bright flag is the eye point candy when the ARs can blend into the touchline crowds!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Keeping the flag in the most visible position possible is not as important now as when we all wore all black. Often then the flag was the only spot of color for the referee to focus on to find the AR, and even that little bit hidden behind the AR's knee made a difference. When we now often wear bright colors such as yellow, red and blue, it doesn't make as much of a difference.

Still, you should try to keep the flag in sight so on those games when you wear black, you will be used to having the flag in the correct hand.

Funny story. I also referee in robotics competitions. We had flags to raise to indicate infractions of the rules. A couple years ago I found myself changing my flag from hand to hand as I moved up and down the field, to keep it in view. Those robots out on the playing field didn't need to see my flag!

Answer provided by Referee Nathan Lacy

They're telling it to you straight. Follow their advice and learn to switch hands quickly, efficiently, and effectively when needed. This takes time and practice. If you want to do it right it takes a lot of work. All the best,