Question Number: 24894

Law 5 - The Referee 5/8/2011

RE: rec Under 6

Larissa of Oshawa, Ontario Canada asks...

Soon I will be going to my first game that I am refing and I was wondering since the u5 kids are smaller and they have a smaller field, will the smaller nets and such be set up for me when I get there or do I have to do that?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

If fields need to be modified for the u-littles, those modifications would be done either by a groundsperson or by the coaches of the teams. Referees are not expected to fix the fields. If in your inspection of the fields you find something amiss or unsafe, you inform the coach (usually the home team) that it needs fixing, unless it's something easy that you can do like tossing a stick in the trash.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Larissa
The referee's only role is to officiate at the game. It is usually up to the home team to prepare the ground etc for the games. The referee though must inspect the field of play to ensure that everything is safe. That includes ensuring that the small sided goals are properly anchored to the ground. If the referee finds anything unsafe she should inform the home team to get it sorted to her satisfaction.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Be sure to check with your referee assignor about field requirements and any rule modifications for this age group BEFORE you get to the field. Then you will feel more confident and the work will be much easier.

As the referee, your duties do not include field preparation. While you might occasionally move a goal back into position, or make sure it is secured, or repair a torn net, setting up the field is not required nor should it even be asked.

Good luck!

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Congratulations on your first match.

The referee usually is not involved in setting up the fields and goals. The referee needs to inspect them, and this often involves asking one of the coaches to fix whatever is wrong.

When I started refereeing, I used to carry lots of stuff in my bag to help things along - - a hammer, some string, even spare goal anchors. I don't do that anymore. Small things, like making sure the goal is in the right place, the nets attached, and the anchors secure remain things I can do quicker than finding someone to ask. But, I found that for big things, if you ask politely, and make it clear that the match cannot begin unless . . . . (the anchors are found for the goals, etc), someone will do it.

I find it useful to check the field as soon as I arrive. That gives the home team time to fix any problems, and reduces any stress I may have about field conditions.