Question Number: 14818

Mechanics 2/8/2007

RE: Premier? (Class 2) Under 19

Cailin Fisher of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada asks...

Hey guys. First time I've asked a question on your website, although I've been a visitor for a while. I just want to thank you for the great service you provide. Now, on to my question.
I have always thought that a caution for dissent could only be shown for dissent towards a referee. Eariler tonight, a fairly accomplished referee from my local association informed me a caution for dissent could be given for a player talking to another player, using any comment that does not fall into "Uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures" (Obviously, under that scenario, an ejection is the correct answer.) I tried to explain to him, that a player talking to another player in a negative way, that isn't quite enough to be offensive, insulting, or abusive, would not be a caution for dissent, but a caution for unsporting behavior. I'm not quite sure how it's possible to show dissent to another player anyways. Any help in this matter is appriciated. Thanks in advance,

Sincerly,
Cailin Fisher

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

You are correct. remember that just because a referee is "accomplished", doesn't mean he's always right. I'm not sure why he even wants to consider this dissent when USB fits so nicely. Thanks for kind words

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Calin,
thanks for the kind words we are glad to be of use!
In my opinion you are spot on! Dissent by word, action or gesture shown by players and coaches is towards the referee or officials descision's regarding the facts of play. Not liking how we officiate and crabbing about it is not he same as not liking an opponent and crabbing at them. The dissent factor in a player to player argument could be for either one not listening to an official to shut up. USB is a catch all that covers just about any incorrect behaviour that brings the game into disrepute, no need to stretch a dissent into this as it might even be tossed by the disciplinary committee as an incorrect action.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Thank you! Our panel all apprecciates your comment and use of our web site. Dissent is "dissent" towards the referee. If it is towards opponents or teammates, then it could be unsporting as referee Dawson said.