Question Number: 25013

Mechanics 5/27/2011

RE: competive Under 15

Jim of Chicago, Illinois USA asks...

When the ball goes out of play over the goal line, I give the proper hand signal to indicate what the restart is (either corner kick or goal kick). However, Im not sure if I should be verbally telling the players what the restart is too. I have had two referee assessors instruct me two different ways; the first one told me after a game not to verbally instruct the players as the hand signal was sufficient. At a game a few months later, a different assessor told me just the opposite, telling me that I must give the hand signal and voice what the restart is. Can you please clarify what the proper method should be in this situation.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

There is no requirement that the referee must verbalize any decision given. It may be common courtesy to do so. But it is most probably not necessary for simple situations like goal kicks unless there is is some confusion. By U15 the players should recognize basic referee signals. (The U-littles may be an entirely different matter.)

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

The referee should do the least amount necessary under the circumstances. Most of the time, the non-verbal hand signal is enough to confirm for players the referees decision on the restart. The USSF Guide To Procedures indicates the correct hand signal.

Constantly shouting out restarts needlessly injects the referee as the focus of the match - - when the focus should be on the enjoyment of the players - - , and would never happen with a professional referee.

But, there are a few times when adding the voice is critical to match control. Whenever it is a close call - - particularly when the ball has deflected - - a goalkick/corner kicks decision will be controversial. Corner kicks lead to goals. A strong, confident voice will enhance the player's acceptance of your decision - - it says (loudly) that you are sure. It also can avoid two opposing players struggling for the ball (each convinced the restart is theirs); they won't be looking at the referee for a signal.

Save your voice for decisions that matter. But, don't fear to speak.

A note about assessors. Each match circumstance is different, and each assessor is different. Some are brilliant; some are not. All can make you a better referee. Listen to them. Thank them. The great ones get you to think. Try out their suggestions. Ignore what does not work for you. Don't worry when they disagree.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Jim
In general verbal instructions are not required on a restart. However in a game where players do not seem to understand the proper signal or they are not looking at the signal can assist to let players know what has been given.
Everyone has a different opinion of what is good refereeing. Some assessor differ in their advice. My advice is to take from them what you consider to be sound. It should also be a two way street of discussion.