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Question Number: 19198

Law 8 - Start and Restart of Play 5/24/2008

RE: Under 17

Steven of Sydney, NSW Australia asks...

What do you say to the players or tell them at the start?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Most of the games I do have a tradition of a formal inspection. The players all line up and equipment is checked. All too often the refs use this as an excuse to make a speech. I'll let you in on a secret - they aren't listening! My speech consists of, "Everyone has shinguards, and all jewelry is off? OK. Any questions for me? Thanks."



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Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

At U17 I tell them to have a good game. With younger and Rec level games I ask them if they have any questions for me



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Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Generally, they aren't interested in listening to me - they want to play. So, I keep it very short - "Let's have a good game!" or "Good luck!" pretty much covers it. If there is a field issue, I will inform the captains and/or the coaches, but this is done prior to starting the match. If I say anything at all, it will be as the teams are checked in for equipment and passes, and if they have questions, we can address them then. The more experience you get, the less you talk, basically.



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