GAME DAY
Tips and advice: So that everyone will have a great game.
Before you get to the field:
Know the Laws of the Game and ALL age group modifications
Make sure you KNOW who, where and what time you are officiating
Insure that you are dressed for success
Make sure you have your bag together (whistle, watch, wallet with cards, coin, pen/pencil, flags and any extra’s that might be needed –
socks, shirt, Under Armor, plastic bag for rain, jacket for rain or cold……and don’t forget H2O and snacks.
Make sure you have Paul’s and Maria’s cell phone numbers
Pregame:
Get to the field 20 minutes before game start
Check the field
Check the goals
Check the flags
Greet the coaches
Check rosters, check in players, coaches and get signatures
Not on the roster, then the player cannot play
Not on the roster, then the coach can not be on the team sideline
Players must have shinguards - NO JEWELRY (medical alerts may be taped), NO CASTS
Coin toss - Ask the winner - Which end of the field would you like to ATTACK?
Start the game on time
Game:
Clean and accurate hand signals – you are communicating
Loud and clear whistle – you are communicating
Stay with play so you can see all that is going on
Be decisive with your calls
Insist that subs come in from center and when you call them in
Crews keep eye contact and communicate with each other
Talk to the players calmly/firmly
Problems:
- Players – Remain calm with players, let them know that whatever is disruptive is unacceptable. If behavior continues caution the player and let the coach know what is going on. If the player continues, then the player should be sent off.
- Coaches – Ask, Tell and Dismiss. Very simple
- Parents – Do not deal with parents – stop the game and have the coaches manage the parents. If the behavior continues, feel free to abandon the game.
Post game:
Stay on the field at the center line to allow teams to congratulate each other and you
Confirm the scores with the coaches
Walk off the field, if a crew, walk off together
Report the score and any issues/cards
