Referees: Showing Urgency at the Right Time

Feeling the game comes in many forms whether it be identifying persistent infringement or sensing trouble spots or trouble situations in a match. The ability to anticipate these “flash points” or warning signs is vital to preventative officiating. For example, feeling a situation or “flash point” can lead to a referee modifying his position or to initiating communication with a player(s) all in the hopes of prevention.

A referee’s presence is often a key component of urgency. The speed and energy a referee uses to get to a spot or to be around the ball or play can play a vital role in helping to channel player behavior in a positive, preventative manner. Players can feel or sense a referee’s presence and this can influence their decision-making process.

VIDEO: Almost two minutes into added time, a throw-in is being taken by the team winning 1-0. The throw-in is deep into their attacking half. The thrower plays the ball toward the corner flag. This is a warning sign or potential “flash point” for the referee. The referee senses that the attacking team will work to hold the ball near the corner flag in an attempt to waste time, get a corner kick, get another throw in or be the benefactor of a foul.

As the clip unfolds and the throw in is played toward the corner, the referee can be observed increasing his work rate. He is not standing and watching. He is moving with the ball feeling a potential “flash point.” This anticipation allows him to be close when calling a foul and then the referee exhibits even more urgency as he recognizes a second “flash point:” Two players on the ground and attempting to get up. click here for the VIDEO