Question Number: 24114

Character, Attitude and Control 10/9/2010

RE: Rec Under 13

Brett of Brookfield, WI USA asks...

How do you guys deal with terminology of the players and coaches? I don't really care if other people call the penalty area a 'box' or the keeper a 'goalie'. However, the problem comes in when I start using the proper terminology with the players and they have no clue what I'm talking about. This is really only a problem in 12 and under rec games. Select and competitive aren't as big of a problem. I don't want to go around correcting everyone on their terminology but I don't want players to look at me like I'm speaking another language either. Any advice?

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

A few years ago, my partners and I walked onto a field with a group of 10 year old players. One of the players announced, 'we have the real referees today!' In my experience, when referees dress professionally, speak professionally (using a professional jargon) and hustle, the players and coaches treat them like 'real referees.'

It's true that players may not use the terms, but they don't have too. IMO, there is no reason to correct their language - - simply use the correct term when you speak. It is ok that there is no foul of 'high kick;' the real referee knows there can be a foul of dangerous play. They may cry'handball' but the real referee may reply 'not deliberate handling.'

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Brett
Refereeing is an exercise in human relations and also in communication. Players need to understand the referee and what he is saying. It can help to build rapport with the players and that can be by using the same terminology. We all know what a 'foul throw' is but would we use 'incorrectly taken throw in'? Where it makes a difference it is important to use the proper terminology and not use terms like 'last man', 'handball' 'obstruction' etc

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

I use correct terminology. If they don't understand, they'll ask and I'll explain. Learning might take place, but I don't insist that coaches or players use the terminology, or correct them (normally, unless the correction is necessary for understanding).

I do insist referees use the correct terminology because if they don't they tend to fall victim to myths and misunderstandings, making for mistakes and difficulties.