Question Number: 32713

Mechanics 9/16/2018

RE: Competive High School

Steve Stanovcak of San Mateo, CA United States asks...

I was looking in Law 6 but was unable to find anything definitive. What is the best way to get the attention of the CR if you are an AR?
For any reason. My few guesses would be to raise your flag or motion the CR to come over to talk. If there was any reason to confer with the CR in a dead ball or stoppage situation.
Thank you for any information.

Steve

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

HI Steve,
the solution is communication mechanics! You need to PRACTISE this it is NOT something you immediately do right it is why they TEACH mechanics!
EYE CONTACT , CR looks over at every stoppage. Raise and wave, hold it aloft as long as necessary to get the job done, wave the arm or hand to come have a chat, ARs mirror flag signal if CR facing wrong way. Thumbs up head shakes and YES you yell if you have too given most recreational matches do not have buzzer flags or radios. Pregame talk over what to do in situations where things occur in behind play! Post game go over what did work what might be improved and what failed? Critical evaluations mentoring and assessments.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Steve
I am a great believer in the use of voice. I tend to shout the name of the referee to attract his attention and then motion him across to speak
What I find is that many times the referee is not making good constant eye contact with the assistant referees so it can be difficult to attract his attention with a flag only. The referee may also be consumed with play so a raised flag may not be expected for something untowards not connected with play.
When we are not using buzzer flags or headsets I just shout to the referee to attract his attention and motion him across.

Answer provided by Referee Peter Grove

Hi Steve,
The standard method (if not using comms headsets or beeper flags) is indeed to raise the flag and keep it raised until the referee has noticed it, then motion for the referee to come across for a discussion. As ref McHugh states, if the referee does not notice the flag for whatever reason, then you can use your voice to attract attention.