RECERT RECAP BY RICK BALAK SDI
The recertification period came to an end at the end of February with 53 classes being available since the beginning of November 09 for referees to attend. This number is one of the highest opportunities of recert classes the SRC has ever offered. With each of you now ready to go into the new season let’s just recap some of the information you learned during your recert class.
This year the Federation started focusing on aspects of officiating and giving us directives and clarifications to help us all have clearer views of how to handle certain situations.
One of those we discussed was Handballs. Remember the movie clips we showed on defensive players “making themselves bigger” by extending arms or legs and blocking passing lanes. We also showed videos on player’s hands and arms being in “Unnatural positions” and making contact with the ball. Each of these now should be interpreted as a handball.
We also discussed the need for each of us to make quick decisions when an injury occurs in our games. Analyze the injury and either stop the game for it or continue play. If you continue, make that decision public to the players. The reason being so that players don’t kick the ball out of play. This keeps the authority of stopping the game with you.
Speaking of injuries we emphasized the need to:
1. Stop the game for head injuries
2. Stop the game for serious injury.
3. When in doubt, think safety first.
Remember the videos on handling FREE KICKS. The two main points were for referees to be proactive when interference begins and to be present at the point of the interference.
Using your speaking skills as much as possible to get player back the 10 yards.
Advantage had 4 P’s when considering using it or not.
1. Posession of the ball
2. Personell or player’s skill
3. Potential for a good attack
4. Proximity to the goal
Use it as a tool to keep the game flowing, but not when it jeopardizes game control.
Also remember the BLITZING RESULTS we discussed. A few were:
1.Whistle loud enough
2.Ar’s stay with the 2nd to last defender and run all balls to the goal line.
3. After substitutions restart with a whistle
4. Keep near play and if hard fouls occur, GET THERE WITH A STRONG WHISTLE AND PRESENCE.
5.Use good flag and arm mechanics as either an AR or the Referee.
6. Remember to look professional and make a Good First Impression.
