Good Resource

[Citiref]

I was browsing through different referee websites and came across this one:
http://law18.net

Apparently, it's made by a National Referee from Florida (Augie Minasola.) There is some very good information there -- especially on http://law18.net/page4.html -- so I thought I would share it with other referees here. Enjoy.

[Citiref]

More ...

http://www.ccsra.net/Home/instructional-lessons
http://www.ccsra.net/referee-tools-2

[refmedic]

Great stuff!!!!

[Citiref]

IFAB Archive: http://www.ssbra.com/html/laws/ifab.html

[Citiref]

MyReferee: http://referee.com/arbiter/myreferee/signin.html

Another valuable source of information. You have to register (at no cost), and you have access to numerous articles from Carl P. Schwartz (National Assessor); Dan Heldman (National Instructor); Referee magazine's "Five Minutes With ..." series which interviews FIFAs and National Referees; and more.

[Citiref]

Fair Play Magazine, 1995
To assist you in determining whether or not a referee should be considered for Grade 06 or more importantly Grade 05, it is very strongly urged that you ask yourself the following questions respective to his/her performance, not just once, but frequently.

1. Does the referee's dress and appearance and the manner of his bearing and stance indicate his supreme self confidence in him/herself and his/her team with a pride of purpose to complete the job at hand with total conviction?

2. Does the referee's presence inspire your total confidence in his knowledge and skill with an ability to lead his/her associates with complete assurance of success from the outset to the final whistle?

3. Does the referee's manner of addressing his/her associates, the players, and the coaches show not only his/her respect and empathy for each and every one of them, but also promotes and inspires a respect for him/her, the duty assigned, and the game to be played?

4. Was the referee's movement well paced, exhibiting maximal sprint speed as or when required and economizing effort to a loping run, a comfortable jog, or brief restive spells as each situation permitted or required? Yet, throughout the entire game was the referee able to accelerate from, jog to all-out sprint to achieve required positioning? Was his alertness typified by using a crouch or leaning of the body to ensure adequate line of sight to every incident?

5. Did the referee possess an ambiance with the game, molding into it, becoming an integral part of it, enjoying it, and yet still orchestrating subtle control enough to promote maximum enjoyment and safety for the players and the spectators?

6. Does the referee utilize every second of time when the ball is out of play to glance around, checking the strategic placement of players for tactical purposes on a corner kick, throw in, goal kick, free kick, and particularly a penalty kick?

Does the referee also use these valuable free moments to glance across at his [assistant referees] in case they need to communicate with him/her? Does the referee freely acknowledge his/her [assistant referee's] advisories with appreciation? Does the referee make a point of running close to a player to pass on a quiet word of admonition to prevent a more serious situation arising?

7. Did the referee empathize with the players, reading not only their body language but facial and eye expression to anticipate the reason for action or reaction and retaliation? Was the referee's own judicial application relevant to the extent required in the best interest of the Spirit of the Game?

8. Were the referee's decisions made with clear and total conviction of judicious responsibilities, indicating positive mental preparation, a clarity of purpose to players and spectators, and clearly eliminating any question, doubt, or dissent?

9. At the end of the game, did you have the distinct impression that the players truly respected and enjoyed the contribution of effort made by the officiating team?

10. Was the referee amenable to suggestions? Did the referee make a point of commenting on one or two minor errors or shortcomings that he may have made? Did you feel that you and the referee were having a warm, friendly, and constructive conversation?

Did the referee acknowledge a point rather than make an excuse to justify it?

If you answer "Yes" to every one of these 10 questions without giving any part of them a second thought, then the chances are that the referee truly deserves your recommendation for promotion to a Grade 05 and possibly to a 04.

By Anthony Standley, Nat'l. Assessor, Tennessee

[Citiref]

REFEREE THOUGHTS
By Herb Silva

Herb Silva is the current scheduler of referees for the Major Soccer League (MLS), A-League and USISL Pro League. He is a former USSF National Referee and the former director of officials for the Major Indoor Soccer League. Silva adapted this list from a publication by Bill Topp of the National Association of Soccer Officials.

1. Use good discretion and judgment when applying your philosophy of officiating. If there is no apparent disadvantage to an opponent, it is likely no rule infraction has occurred.
2. First impressions are often lasting ones.
3. Start the game off right; your first call sets the tone.
4. Always listen.
5. Always hustle.
6. Be aware of your body language; it says a lot to others.
7. Be dependable from whom you work.
8. Try to get better every game. Ask yourself and others; what do I need to work on?
9. No game assignment is worth compromising your principles or integrity.
10. Keep an even temperament.
11. Forgive and forget; every game is a new one.
12. As officials, you always have the last word; you don't always have to use it.
13. One poor game does not mean you are a poor official.
14. Relax! When people sense tension, they are less likely to communicate effectively with you.
15. Don't be jealous of a good break that another official gets. Be supportive; your turn may be next.
16. You never know who is watching your game.
17. Have ambition but be patient.
18. Hear only the things you should hear.
19. Watch what others do and implement what you like.
20. Work with the captains in the pre-game conference; let them know they can talk to you.
21. Control play with both voice and whistle.
22. Watch the entire play; don't anticipate a foul or violation.
23. Don't turn your back on players when administering a free kick.
24. Conduct a thorough pre-game conference before your game.
25. Take your time when putting the ball in play. Make eye contact with ARs frequently before restarts.
26. Keep proper spacing; don't get too close to the call.
27. Let properly trained personnel deal with injured players.
28. Review law, mechanics, and interpretation regularly.
29. Let the players play if that's what they came to do.
30. Work hard at looking off the ball.
31. If you believe coaches, players, and fans when they say you're good, you've got to also believe them when they say you're bad.
32. Be careful of what you say. More referees get into trouble for what they say than what they do.
33. Learn to sometimes walk away.
34. Proper use of humor has saved many a tough situation.
35. A player or coach asking a question is not dissent.
36. Many fans (and parents) don't know that they don't know.
37. If possible, use a quiet word when dealing with a player or a coach.
38. You've got to show respect to earn respect.
39. Do not touch players.
40. Make your partners look good.
41. Good foul discrimination = good man management.
42. The job is not over until the paperwork is done.
43. Remember where you started. Call your assignor and help out with youth ball.
44. Understand and referee the spirit of the game.
45. It is OK to enjoy what you're doing. Smile. Have a great season

[Citiref]

EXECUTION OF THE CEREMONIAL KICK

Executing a ceremonial kick is an area where referee can minimize time wasting and insure fair
play. He will accomplish this by establishing a routine that will minimize problems such as time
wasting, encroachment, and returning to set the wall. The following routine is based on a
recommendation of Ricardo Valenzuela, retired FIFA referee.

1. When a free kick for the attacking team occurs within the attacking 1/3, a set play for most
teams is an excellent scoring opportunity if a quick kick is not taken. The referee should
approach the spot of the kick so the ball is between him and the goal line. If, when the
foul occurred the referee was forward of the spot he should approach the ball carefully so
he avoids obstructing a quick kick.

2. When the referee approaches the spot of the foul, he will observe the players and
determine if they are setting up for a quick kick then wait 3 to 6 seconds to see if the kick
occurs. If the kick doesn’t occur most likely defending players will be gathering closer
than ten yards. At this point a set play will most likely be a better option.

3. If no quick kick is taken the referee should move to the spot of the foul and point down
toward the ground with both index fingers and direct the player to place the ball next to his
feet and announce “wait to kick the ball until you hear my whistle to start” and show them
the whistle. This will allow him to quickly set up a ceremonial kick.

4. While facing the goal, ask the kicker to place the ball as he would like to kick it. When he
is done ask him if the ball is placed exactly how he wishes. After he says yes say to him,
“please do not touch the ball until I sound my whistle.” At this point the kicker has no
reason to move the ball from the spot and if he does so he is guilty of unsporting behavior.
In the pregame inform your assistants of your routine so they can notify you if the ball is
moved.

5. During the time you are placing the ball, the defending players are setting up. They may
be setting up a defensive wall or there may only be a single player. At the same time the
attackers are moving into place along with the other defenders.

6. Read the players and determine where the contest area for the ball will most likely be and
consider what positions you might utilize to signal the restart from.

7. From your location behind the ball select which side of the wall you will signal the restart
from and walk toward that side of the wall facing the goal line asking the players to step
back with you. Once you are 11 to 12 yards back beckon the defensive players to move
back to you. Pick one of the player’s numbers and say for example “blue 16 please step
back to me.” Generally the other players will follow.

8. Once the wall is set, move to the position you selected previously and keep the wall in
view. This way you will never move across the path of the ball and are immediately in
position to signal the restart.

9. Make eye contact with your AR, deal with any early contact in the wall or off the ball, and
watch the player’s body language for encroachment.

10. Signal the kick and move to a point of better view as the ball moves.

[MOREFFIN]

I bookmarked this thread. Any chance of it earning Sticky status?

[mutinywxgirl]

Wish I could do it - but, I can't. Agreed - this would be a good one to sticky....... :)

[Citiref]

GIL WEBER'S PREGAME INSTRUCTIONS

Note: The following was posted to the SOCREF-L Mailing List in August 2002

August 2002 -- Based on recent requests from several members of socref here are my revised pregame instructions. While much of this remains as written in 1999, I've updated various sections to reflect policy and protocol changes from USSF, FIFA, and the International Board.
As I stated in the original preamble, adapt these instructions to your own style and temperament. I urge you not to repeat verbatim that which you read here. Rather think about the points I make, reflect on how I deal with them, and then create your own pre-game spiel to meet the needs of your games and the experience levels of your ARs. With that, here goes...

----------------------

Except when you need to deal with substitions or other matters on your touchline, you'll help me most by focusing your attention inside the lines for the entire 90 minutes (or however long). Please don't turn around to see who chases the ball when it goes into touch behind you. Don't watch to see what happens to the ball when it goes behind the goal line. Our game is between the lines, so watch the players and the field at all times.

The players are smart, and if one of them is going to do anything nasty it will probably happen when he thinks we're not watching. If you turn to watch the ball behind you, that's when a player will look, see his chance, and elbow or punch or spit. Then an opponent is lying face down on the field and I look at you with a facial expression asking "What happened?" If you then look back at me with eyes like a deer caught in headlights, we're in trouble. We can't let that happen, we have to be aware, so watch the "hot" areas of the field at all times.

If I whistle for a freekick close to you and I have to come to the spot of the foul to deal with players or move the wall, do NOT watch me! Nothing is happening where I am. Watch the players behind me, directly across from you in the penalty area. That's where the s**t is going to hit the fan because the players know my attention is away from them, and they look at you and see that you're watching me! Then the nasty stuff starts, so watch the field!!

Every time the ball is dead the first thing we must do is make eye contact. If you have something to communicate then try to tell me what's on your mind with hand signals. But if it's a more serious matter that requires discussion then motion me over.

On each stoppage it's also important that you look across the field to the other AR. Make eye contact. If there is a flag up behind my back (e.g., for substitution) then mirror it. If I don't look at you don't worry. I'm not ignoring you. I'm simply violating my first rule which says we must make eye contact. I'm allowed to violate my own rules ) Now, if I don't look at you several times then give me a shout and point to your own eyes -- I'll get the message to pay attention.

Offside is yours but please remember to wait just a moment to determine participation. Let's not put the flag up for a player standing in an offside position only to see the player with the ball run through the defense and collect his own pass. A second or two late and accurate is better than a fast but, ultimately, inaccurate flag. If you do put the flag up (and it's not a mistake which you immediately correct) then hold it until I blow the whistle, or wave it down ("thanks very much"), or if I've gone completely asleep until the defense takes the ball and there is no longer a threat of attack.

Never, never pull the flag down with an attack in progress simply because I did not see it. Stand there forever with the flag raised if you have to. You're not the one who looks foolish -- I am, and that's my problem. The defense and their coaches will certainly let me know that your flag is up. (Boy, will they let me know! ))

But we can not allow a goal to be scored if you had the flag up and then brought it down because I did not see it and you then decided you had to catch up to the second to last defender.
Similarly, if the ball goes into touch and then comes back into the field, raise the flag and stand there until I blow the whistle or until the attack breaks down. I'm the one who looks foolish, not you. We cannot allow the ball to go off the field, come back in, and then go into the goal. If you've dropped the flag and I never saw it, and I then award a goal we'll have a riot. So keep the flag up as long as there's a threat of attack!

If the ball goes into the goal and comes back out, and if I did not realize it and play continues, raise the flag and stand there. Do not drop the flag. A goal is a goal, any my falling asleep does not negate that. As a last resort, shout to get my attention -- this is a game-altering incident and we have to get it right.
If I've turned away from you and headed upfield and have not heard your shout, then the AR on the other side of the field should see your flag and should mirror it ("Hey, dummy. Look behind you and try to extricate yourself from the hole you've just dug.").

Now, if the other AR does not see and mirror your flag, and if the game has had some stoppages and restarts then it's too late at that point to award the goal. All you can do is tell me at half time/full time and I'll have to deal with the consequences of my inattentiveness.

OK, we know that ARs are now instructed to become more involved in managing the game, for example with fouls. Please help me, but please also give me first shot since I tend to play a lot of advantage. Early in the game especially be just a little bit hesitant popping the flag until you get a feel for what I'm allowing. If you're convinced that I would have called the foul had I seen it then don't hesitate to raise the flag. Be sure to give me direction and a little hand signal (e.g., shirt pulling). Remember, I may not have seen the foul, and I have to sell the call to the players! If you can help me avoid the deer-in-the-headlights stare when the players ask "What was the call, ref?" I'd be most appreciative. )

I'm going to ask you to be very careful flagging for any fouls in the penalty area that would result in a PK. That's NOT saying the penalty area is exclusively mine, but I am supposed to be able to see what's in front of me, and I'll take responsibility for that. I'll also protect you from irate defenders and coaches, so don't worry about them. So please think very, very carefully before flagging for PKs.

Now there are two exceptions -- times when you should flag for a PK without any hesitation.
1) If some Diego Maradonna wanna-be sticks his hand up above his head or far from his body and unquestionably, intentionally handles the ball, and I'm the only person on the planet who did not see it, then raise the flag, give the standard USSF signal for PK. Again, this is not some marginal handling -- this is clearly "mano de dios" stuff and you're convinced I've had a huge brain f**t.

2) If I've turned to run up field and a defender cold-cocks an attacker behind my back then you must raise the flag. Now, that flag will be behind my back (and flags behind the CR's back should be avoided) but we're talking a game-destroying incident if it's not dealt with promptly. So raise the flag and the other AR should be observant enough to see it and mirror. "Hey ref, look behind you. There's a problem significant enough for me to flag and point past you."

Manage the game as best you can when play is near to you. Handle encroachment on close-by free kicks and corner kicks. Come into the field if you need to. But keep an eye on the attackers and read the game. They may want to take a quick free kick, and if you're standing next to the wall 10 yards inside the field when they put the ball into play then we all look bad when I have to blow the whistle and hold the restart while you retreat to the touch line. So use common sense here and try to stay at the touch line if you can.

Talk to the players when they're at the corner arc and you just know the attacker is going to kick the defender's ankles ("Play the ball guys, not the ankles"). If the player then kicks the ankles you nail him -- raise the flag. Talk to the players -- politely, respectfully, but we're in charge. They are not.
If they complain ("Hey linesman, that was offside") don't be bothered. Players will complain and disagree. They're allowed to disagree and vent a little emotion. That's part of an emotional game. But when they tell you to stick the flag where the sun doesn't shine then it's different and you need to call me over. Anytime you call me over it has to be for something so serious that you could not manage it yourself. So you must be prepared to tell me "white #6 spit at blue #12" or whatever. Do NOT call me over to say that green #5 is complaining about offside. I don't care about that and you should not be over-reacting to that kind of stuff. So listen and hear what needs to be heard and ignore what can be ignored. Stay calm and in control.

Same with the coaches and substitutes and spectators. They're allowed to disagree as long as they don't get out of line or become disruptive to the game, or interfere with your running on the line. So try to manage things as best you can -- politely but firmly. If you've tried but you cannot deal with elements outside the touchlines then call me over. I WILL TAKE OUT THE TRASH!

If the ball goes in the goal and in your opinion it's a good goal then follow standard USSF procedures but do NOT run up the line. If I decide it's not good then you have to run all the way back. Make eye contact! If I agree it's good then trot slowly up the line looking over your right shoulder at the goal line and penalty areas to observe post-goal nastiness (especially fights over the ball in the net). Watch the players!!!

If in your opinion it's not a good goal then stand there, at attention, per USSF instructions. I'll look at you, you can motion me over and tell me "#6 clearly obstructed the keeper and prevented her from getting to the ball" (or whatever it was). If I agree we'll cancel the goal and restart for the defense. If I disagree we'll go with the goal and I'll keep the defenders away from you. Again, don't be offended; it's not personal.

Now, if in your opinion it's not a good goal, and I fail to make eye contact (instead pointing and running directly to the center circle), then raise the flag behind my back. Again, I hate flags behind my back but I've violated my own rule which says make eye contact and standing at attention won't do any good at that point. So you need to get my attention. The other AR must mirror the flag ("Hey, dummy, look behind you").

If I whistle for a PK then come around the corner and take your position off the field at the intersection of the goal line and penalty area line. Be a goal judge and watch for keeper movement forward from the goal line. I'll watch for encroachment into the penalty area by the field players. If the ball rebounds from the keeper or goal do NOT try to rejoin play with the offside. You'll get caught in no-man's land and you're useless to me. Stay on the end line and be a goal judge. I'll watch for offside. Move out to the touch line only when it's safe -- when the play had cleared the penalty area and the ball is going to the other half of the field.

If the keeper moves forward of the goal line and the kick is not successful then move your left foot into the field so that you are straddling the goal line. That tells me there was goal keeper movement. In my infinite wisdom (or lack thereof) I may choose to ignore that subtle signal from you. Do not be offended; it is not personal.

All other mechanics are to standard USSF teachings (for corner kicks, throw-ins, goal kicks, substitutions, etc.). Just follow what you were taught and you'll be fine. When you check the players be certain that the jersey number on the lineup is the same as the number on the shirt. And please look at the photos on the player passes! Does the player standing in front of you bear any resemblance to the photo? If not, hold the pass and show it to me. Do not return it to the player or coach.

One last thing. I'm not picky about the exact spot for throw-ins, goal kicks, offside, etc. If the player is close let her play. Show the player where to take the throw-in and if she's within a few yards let it go. If she goes 15 yards away after you pointed to the proper spot then raise the flag.

I don't care that the ball goes on the exact blade of grass for offside restarts. Let them play. I don't care if the ball is placed a few inches outside the goal area for a goal kick and the nearest opponent is 40 yards away. Who cares? Certainly not the opponents. Don't raise the flag and motion with your hand to tell me that the ball has to go back a few inches after it's been kicked into play!

If the keeper is punting the ball and reaches a few inches outside the penalty area just before kicking (clearly handling outside the area) don't raise the flag! The nearest opponent is probably 40 yards away. Who cares? Let them play. Give a shout "Keeper, watch your lines." Then if the keeper persists we have the option to nail him after we've provided a reasonable warning. But let's not micro-manage technical offenses that don't matter in the long run. That only causes preventable irritation for the players and coaches and spectators.

Now, if the keeper comes out and challenges an opponent and handles outside the area then of course you flag it. That handling is unfair. But otherwise don't be overly critical of things that don't affect the game or the players' enjoyment.

Flag what needs to be called. Let inconsequential stuff go. Talk to the players ("Keeper, watch your line when you're punting the ball").

Now, any questions on things I covered, or are there things I did not cover that you're still unclear about? OK, let's pluck this turkey. )
That's it!

Gil Weber
National Emeritus Referee
State Assessor
Member, USSF Referee Educational Review Committee
Lifetime Member, USSF National Program for Referee Development
Contributing Author, USSF "Advice to Referees"
Occasional Rogue for the Good of the Game

[Citiref]

PASSING LANES
By: Wayne Wray
National Assessor

Balls are being directed at you from every possible direction. You duck, you dodge, you hop,
it’s an exciting game of dodge ball on the elementary school playground. No, unfortunately,
it’s a soccer game. You’re refereeing it and you’re stuck in the passing lanes. Answer these questions. Have you ever been hit with the ball? Have you ever had to dodge the ball or jump over it? Have you ever had a player run into you or have you run into a player who wasn’t watching you? If the answer
to any of these questions is “Yes”, then you have been caught in the passing lanes. If the answers to all of these questions is “No”, then you just finished the basic course and haven’t refereed enough games yet. Keep reading, you will.

Once you’re in the passing lanes, you usually can tell. Either you have to avoid being hit by the ball, or the players seem like they are using you as a turnstile or to block out an opponent. You know it when you’re out there and the experience isn’t any fun. You feel like you’re in the way and the players are likely to tell you so too, if not verbally, then with body language. When you walk off the field, you’ll
probably hear about it, too. Ever so helpful assessors (who really are trying to improve your refereeing) will suggest you work on your positioning. Experienced assistant referees are likely to let you know it, too. “You should have worn blue today, at least the kids would have known who to pass to.”

Okay, so what is a passing lane anyway? Passing lanes in soccer are those spaces through which the ball could/should pass during the development of an attack. Their location is constantly changing depending on the dynamics and style of play, what happens to challenge the player with the ball and where and when “off-the-ball” runs are made by the teammates.

That’s a textbook definition, but how do you recognize them out on the pitch? And, how do you avoid them in the first place? How do you get close enough to see the fouls and sell your calls without being in the way? Sure the passing lanes can be fairly easy to anticipate at the higher levels, but what about in youth games? Then how do you stay out of the way? Nobody wants to get hit, but why is it so important to be out of the way of the players? After all, you’re part of the field. They can run around you, right?

...

Continue at http://home.comcast.net/~MarylandInTouch/InTouchWinter99.pdf (http://home.comcast.net/%7EMarylandInTouch/InTouchWinter99.pdf)

[Citiref]

Referees Are Not Always Tested on the Field
By Rodney Kenney, National Assessor

One attribute that is key to a successful refereeing career is a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. When we talk to referees who are not successful, it doesn’t take long to discover why. They say, “I never get the better games,” although they are assigned to the same type of games as everyone else in their grade. They are also the referees who believe they are always right,
and the comments from the assessors are always wrong. They consider themselves above all junior referees and tell the assignor that they should be doing the center instead of the “less qualified” people who are being assigned. The attitude of “I have been refereeing for 15 years and
don’t need to go to any clinics,” or “the players are getting worse . . . they are out of control,” are some of the comments you hear from them. They always seem to have problems in games and blame everyone else, the assistants, coaches, and players for the trouble. Never once do they reflect on what they may have done to cause the problems in the game.

This negative attitude turns off fellow referees, assessors, assignors, and administrators, the people we depend on to support our referee careers. Refereeing at all levels, from entry to level, is a team effort and a positive attitude can make your refereeing career a success, while a negative attitude can cause it to be a failure. You may never know when you are being tested for better assignments; the following is an example of such a test. A new National referee was invited to the Olympic Development Program tournament finals. He was the highest-rated referee there. When he returned from the tournament he was asked how he did, and he
replied simply, “fine.” Pressured further about the games he received, he said he did two fourth officials, and three assistant referee assignments. Questioned about the lack of high-level assignments, he said that all week the other referees at the tournament also questioned why the highest-rated referee did not get better assignments. He said he told them he was just pleased to be there for a week and felt that if that is what the people who sent him wanted him to do, that was fine with him. He smiled and conceded, “Oh, I also did the final in the middle,” which was the best assignment in the tournament.

Yes, they were testing him, but what were they testing him for? Obviously it was not his refereeing ability, but rather his attitude, both on and off the field. The test was whether he would he represent the Federation well. Would he be a good role model for younger referees? They found the right man and have since assigned him to many pro games and other prestigious
assignments. What can we learn from this example? We learn that each assignment is not only a test of refereeing skills, but also of a positive attitude and approach. Accept each assignment no matter what it is, and always do your best. If you are as good as you think you are, success will
come with the assignments.

A positive attitude can sometimes see you through times when your skills are not quit what they should be or when you move to a new level in your refereeing career. Assessors want to know that you understand your weaknesses and can accept constructive criticism with a positive
attitude and will work to improve your refereeing skills. Referees want to work with other referees who have a positive attitude and are not afraid to ask for help to get better. Just remember, “You can fail on your own but you can only succeed with the help of others.” Refereeing is a team effort, be part of the team.

[Citiref]

Thought I would add a few more things to this thread:

Player and Game Management:
One) Understanding. Understand the game. Understand the emotions. Understand the game and how that same set of laws fits into that particular game on that particular day with those particular players. Understand the players and their roles. Understand how coaches are going to use tactics to exploit their opponents. Understand what a foul is. Understand the speed and tactics of the "new" game, even at the younger levels. Understand the game enough to know what a player may be thinking through out a match. Understand what's happening on the field. Understand what the players are thinking. Understand the game from a player's viewpoint. Understand the overall "big picture" of the match. Understand the role of a captain as it pertains to the team and to the referees. Understand the dynamics of the game within the game.

Two) Fundamentals.
• It's a simple Game, keep it simple.
• Get the call right. Focus on getting the call correct, regardless of who makes it.
• Get the restarts right. Management of restarts is a critical component of a referee's job description.
• Wall management is integral. You must establish firm wall management or teams will delay the restart using several tactics.
• Need to be able to see from goal line to goal line.
• Step up your management styles by using proactive communication, personality, and smart refereeing to prevent and anticipate negative play. Be creative in finding ways to "influence the future" with actions in the present.

Three)
• Expect the unexpected. With just one foul, an "easy" game can turn against you. Be prepared to deal with unpredictable situations. Each match is unique.
• Successful refereeing is a process of thinking and acting to avoid problems.
• Stay a step ahead of the game, and the players. Focus, concentration levels and professionalism must exceed that of the players. Anticipation is critical. Be proactive, not reactive or post-active. Prevent the next foul. Influence the future with actions in the present . Referee for the future not just the moment.
• Prevention, anticipation, influence: critical words that should guide game officials in their management approach to games at all levels.
• Presence lends conviction. Presence lends authority. Perception is reality.
• Call the simple/easy, early fouls and the firsts. Manage the little things. Use preventative refereeing.
• Set the right tone early, set the standard, establish the line and set boundaries.

Assistant Referees:
One) Know your role. An AR is there as a supporting member of the referee crew. You are there to assist the referee when the game or referee needs it.

Two) Involvement / Assistance in the game:
• Be involved as needed; provided apprpriate level of assistance to game / referee.
• Courage in game critical situations.
• 98% of the time you leave the flag down, it will be on your side.
• Responsible for three offs: offside, off the ball, and off the cross bar.
• Players will test the AR in the AR's area. They will challenge the AR to see if he/she has the courage to make the call.
• Three critical items: preparation (proper preparation for each match is always very important), patience (the assistant must have the patience to “wait” for that attacker to actually participate.), positioning (the assistant must be in perfect position to be able to “see” which attacker is in an offside position.)

Three)
• Arrive early to become comfortable with your surroundings.
• Be aware of the sun depending on the time of day.
• Be rested and well prepared.
• Stay in position, concentrate and know the interpretations/applications.
• Positioning and work rate are keys to successful Assistant Refereeing.
• Command presence.

Fourth Officials:
One) If you accept an assignment as a Fourth Official, you should realise that it is an important member of the Referee crew, and the assignment should be handled in a professional manner. Fourth Officials: if you want to watch the game, buy a ticket. Fourth Officials must be non-confrontational and act as a diplomat between the two teams. The Fourth Official is expected to call things (fouls and throw-ins) in a 20 yard arc in front of the technical areas, like another Assistant Referee. No hats, nor sunglasses. No warm-ups unless the weather dictates it and the referee permits it -- reason being for these guidelines, as a 4th, you want to project the image that you're an integral part of the officiating team by wearing the proper uniform (and you are an integral part), and that you are not just a glorified ballboy or scorekeeper.

Two) Bench Control: 1.) Utilized the Ask, Tell and Remove procedures. 2.) Dealt with coaches and players, within the technical area, according to initiates and directives concerning bench decorum. 3.) Used techniques to prevent escalation of improper behavior within the technical area. Assistance: 1.) Provided the appropriate level of assistance before, during, and after the game. 2.) Followed protocol in managing instances of game disrepute and/or mass confrontation. 3.) Managed the substitution process as required. Administrative Tasks: 1.) Administrative duties (paperwork, etc.) were well handled.

If there are no technical areas marked, use cones to establish the boundary.

Three) Techniques.
• Deal Primarily with Coach
• Establish Rules Early
• Avoid Giving “Orders”
• Speak Quietly, with Respect
• Smile!
• “Presence Lends Conviction”
• “When All Else Fails” – Report to Assistant Referee/Ref
• Take Charge / Be There / Smile / Use Ref-Assistant Referee
• Don't stand in one spot like a statue, and don't sit down. When play is near a bench, walk towards it to diffuse any problems if there is a foul, and to keep the benches calm. If a coach is screaming at the referee, stand near him or her as often your presence will diffuse the situation and deflect any arrows intended for the referee and ARs by you talking with the coach. Be proactive in that manner.
• Subbing is like changing a tire; you can't put the new one on until you take off the flat.
• Make sure subs coming in have shinguards and the proper equipment, and that their shirt is completely tucked in.
• Fourth officials also need to warm up; what happens when the referee or one of the assistant referees go down?
• In all games, when doing the pre-game walkout to do the National Anthem, the fourth official also needs to walk on the field -- not staying on the sideline. The Fourth Official's position is to the right of the referee. An easy way to remember that is to think of the Fourth as the referee's right hand man (which he is.)
• Do not use a clipboard during the game. Use a referee wallet or two to write down all necessary notes.
• Keep a good legible record of the match and of whatever it is that the referee wants you to keep track of. Record data in your wallet, not your clipboard. That way, if the referee or an assistant referee becomes incapacitated, and you have to take over, you have all the information handy for your records. And in case the referee (if you took over for an AR) fails to send someone off for a second caution or you took over for the referee, and other similar situations, you have the information right there since you won't have time to transfer it from the clipboard to your wallet.

Ethics and Professionalism:
One) The Essence of Professional Ethics.
DO NOTHING THAT WILL COMPROMISE THE INTEGRITY OF THE PROFESSION.

REFEREE PROFESSIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:
- Other referees
- Assignors
- Assessors
- Coaches
- Players
- Referee in another role (coach, player, spectator, etc....)
- Club and League Officials
- Spectators

Five Principles of Ethical Power for the Individual:
Purpose
Pride
Patience
Persistence
Perspective

Two) Keys to Professionalism: Starts before you get to the field. Every referee is a professional referee, regardless of level. IT STARTS WITH A DESIRE TO BE THE BEST IN WHAT YOU DO. Display respect for self, others and this profession. Have a commitment to excellence. Be dedicated and disciplined. Professionalism begins with: Preparation, Knowledge, Fitness, Ethics, and Attitude. You must be Reliable (honor assignments), Coordinate with your referee team (Bonding).

Arrival: Get there early so you can relax & talk to ref team. Discuss areas of responsibility.

Teamwork: Make it fun. Lots of eye contact, praise for good calls, but not too obvious (just a nod is good enough). Reports and paperwork must be submitted timely and properly. Just the facts - no opinions.

Knowledge: Laws of the Game. Know the tactics of players and teams.

Fitness: Must continue before, during and post season. It is a lifestyle for top referees.

Inspire Confidence: High Ethics, Perception is Reality. Your attitude determines your ALTITUDE in life.

Three) Professionalism means taking your games seriously, doing your homework when possible and preparing yourself mentally and physically for the game. Remember, the players train, eat and sleep right for their games. So should you. And, remember, kids practice and work hard for their games and all they ask is that you do likewise (so do the parents who put a lot of money into their child's success.)

Pre-game Tips:
One) The next games you do, no matter what they are, ask yourself, what can I do more to make the players feel as if they are getting my best? If you can make a list of two or three things, implement them into your game and see how it effects the match.

Two) Think about your games in advance, even in the days beforehand, and contact your team members ahead of time, so that you will be ready. Be at the field ready to go at least 30 minutes before kickoff, and this is why: There is a long list of things to do before a match can begin, including inspecting the field (surface, lines, sideline areas and goals), talk to the ball-handlers, check the game balls, talk to the coaches, check your referee uniforms and colors, inspect the players/uniforms/IDs and rosters, discuss procedures and mechanics with the referee team (pre-game discussion), go to the center circle together as a team (all four officials) carrying the game ball, talk to the captains, toss the coin, reinspect the nets before the ARs go to their lines, count the players, get in place and make eye contact with the ARs.

Three)
• Cover all the what-ifs.
• Be aware of previous situations which might affect your current game.
• Put on your game face.
• Are you skipping your pregames? Halftime talks? Postgames? Those are the best opportunities to make certain you’re prepared for your game, that you’re correcting in-game situations and communicating issues at half, and for analyzing what you all did well and/or could do better. Don’t waste those times on idle talk.
• Half-time discussion. Share your thoughts on what can be improved. Communication, Positioning, Anticipate/Read New Team Tactics for the second half, Individual Battles/Match-ups to be extra aware

Positioning:
• Positioning and workrate are key to successful refereeing.
• The referee must move on the field so as to anticipate play, and always have a clear line of vision of the action.
• If you don't run during the game, you'll have to run afterwards.
• If you are in the right place at the right time, you will always be able to make the proper call. Being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time will force you to make a decision that will more than likely be wrong.

This a compilation of advice I have written down from numerous forums and websites. All of the above is from USSF National Referees -- including all of the Nationals on BS who have been gracious enough to answer my numerous questions. Hopefully someone finds it useful, like I have.

[Citiref]

THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF REFEREEING
Robert Evans
FIFA Referee (1979-88); FIFA Referee Instructor (1990-92)

Many people who go to watch a soccer game-youth, adult, professional-wonder why a lot of physical contact between players is not punished by the referee. If they are new to the game, they may be no more than puzzled by the apparent lack of understanding (or eyesight) by the official. If they've been around the game a bit, or if their little darling is playing and perhaps gets knocked over, they may become irate at the irresponsibility of the referee. And of course, if they have the authority of a coach's jacket or hat, they not only become irate, but they may even take it upon themselves to let the official know exactly what they think of him (or her). After all, everyone knows that the official is supposed to call fouls and other infringements of the laws, and if he doesn't do that, he must be incompetent, right?

Well, actually, no! By allowing some infractions to go unpunished he may in fact be doing his job just the way that the laws tell him to. (Pause to wait for the muttering . . .) Oh, I can here it now: "What is this idiot talking about? He says that a referee misses the calls and yet is still doing his job? He lets fouls go unpunished, and we are supposed to compliment him for doing things right?" And those comments are the mild ones . . .!
After being involved in refereeing since 1964, through thousands of games refereed, watched and assessed, and through countless classes instructed, I have to say that the most difficult part of refereeing is knowing what infractions to call, and what ones to let go. The reason for the difficulty is simple: For more than one hundred years, the laws of the game have INSTRUCTED REFEREES NOT to call everything, but to call only the infractions that affect the game adversely.

IT COMES DOWN TO THIS: THE ART OF REFEREEING IS THE ART OF PENALIZING ONLY THOSE BREACHES OF THE LAW THAT AFFECT THE GAME.

But the problem with that statement is that at each level of the game, from little wobbly kids to U-8s, U-10s, U-12s through the early teenagers up to full youth competitions, into the adult games, to the top amateur level into the semi-professionals and full professionals, then into international club competitions all the way to full "A" class internationals and on to the World Cup, the infractions that affect the game are different!

So youth players and their parents go to a professional match or watch one on television, and they see all that goes on-ferocious tackling; seemingly endless comments to the referee-and wonder about the competence of the official. They see players with their hands all over their opponent; they wince as a player is challenged hard and goes down in a heap with his challenger; they see a blatant offside, and the referee allows play to go on! It seems so obviously unfair-unless of course, you know what is going on.

Experienced referees changed their decision-making to suit the game they are refereeing. A simple push in a U-12 game can throw a player off balance and most times should be penalized. That same push in an adult game would be meaningless, and in a professional match might be taken merely as a gesture of affection! An offside call when the flag goes up and the whole of the audience in the stands can see the player offside, should not be called if it is clear that the goalkeeper or other defender is going to safely clear the ball. The infraction has become meaningless and does not affect the game. Until the recent rewriting of the Laws of the Game, this philosophy of refereeing was written as 64 words in the International Board Decision number 8 of Law 5:

"The Laws of the Game are intended to provide that games should be played with as little interference as possible, and in this view it is the duty of Referees to penalise only deliberate breaches of the Law. Constant whistling for trifling and doubtful breaches produces bad feeling and loss of temper on the part of the players and spoils the pleasure of spectators."
That's the art of refereeing!

So next time you go to a game and see fouls going unpunished, take a look at the players, and listen to what they are saying. If they are not complaining, but are just getting on with the game, then they obviously are happy with the way that things are being called. In which case, so should you. But if you go to a match and here players saying: "For heaven's sake, ref! Let us play!" then you know that the players want more freedom, they don't want the referee to call everything and choke the game to death.

It's a difficult art, this refereeing. And doubly difficult when you do the job right, but still have to contend with spectators who don't understand. That explains the big money we make doing it!

[jkc313]

I was browsing through different referee websites and came across this one:
http://law18.net

Apparently, it's made by a National Referee from Florida (Augie Minasola.) There is some very good information there -- especially on http://law18.net/page4.html -- so I thought I would share it with other referees here. Enjoy.
Did you notice that much of this stuff is years old and out of date? Not that there's not some good information but some of it needs to be updated

[Citiref]

Did you notice that much of this stuff is years old and out of date? Not that there's not some good information but some of it needs to be updated
Yep, I did notice that. The "Personal Resources" section is what I was really referring to, not the pages on the laws or other related materials.