refereeing magazine - vol 08 - jan 09

RefeReeingJoint publication of FA Learning and The RA

Volume 08 January 2009

in THiS iSSUe

ReD CARD OffenCeS

OFFICIAL REFEREES PARTNER

COnTenTS26-33DeAling wiTH DiSSenT

RefeReeingJoint publication of FA Learning and The RA

Volume 08 January 2009

in THiS iSSUe

ReD CARD OffenCeS

ContributorsKelly Simmons, Graham Noakes, David Elleray, Ian Blanchard, Neale Barry, Mike Riley, Howard Webb, Steve Bennett, Martin Atkinson, Stuart Attwell, Keith Hackett, Nigel Llong, Ashley Klein, Andrew Small, Matthew Weston, Joe Simpson, Una Hong, John Folwell, Colin Harris.

Editorial TeamIan Blanchard, Cassandra Rees, Anna Gray, Neale Barry and David Elleray.

AcknowledgementsThe contents of “Refereeing” are copyright of The Football Association. No articles, features or any aspects can be reproduced or photocopied without written permission of The Football Association.

The views of this journal are not necessarily those of The Football Association.

Published by:FA Learning, 25 Soho Square, London, W1D 4FA.

Website:TheFA.com/Refereeing

Email:[email protected]

The FA Crest is a registered trademark of The Football Association. © The Football Association 2004

Foreword Lord Triesman 04

Respect our referees Ian Blanchard and Bev Ward 06

RA Centenary Conference Bart O’Toole 10

Grassroots promotion Ian Blanchard 14

Injury prevention Louise Panteli 16

Euro 2008 diary Howard Webb, Darren Cann and Mike Mullarkey 20

Prevention is better than punishment David Elleray 22

A young referee’s development Steve Swallow and Jake Fassam 24

FA Recruitment and Retension Taskforce David Elleray 27

FAMOA Tim Westbey 28

Women’s Development Day Jordana North 29

PGMOL Annual Conference Keith Hackett 30

Young Referees Conference 2008 Ian Blanchard 32

Referees Retention Event Dean Mohareb 33

Law Questions Neale Barry 34

36wHenSATURDAyCOmeS

40my OlympiCexpeRienCe


2 REFEREEING VOLUME 08 3

Get yer kit on. For nothing.Join the FAMOA incentive scheme and collect points for each game you referee, to redeem across a range of kit and equipment

To register e-mail [email protected] or call 0207 745 4651

FOREWORD

FEATURE

REFEREEING AT THE FA

FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES

THE REFEREES ASSOCIATION OF ENGLAND

FEATURE


THE REFEREESASSOCIATION OF ENGLAND

inTRODUCTiOn TO THe eDiTiOn

This edition has a variety of stimulating and educational articles for all those involved with refereeing and those who

are interested in refereeing as a vital part of our national game.

As part of the re-structuring of the FA Kelly Simmons and Graham Noakes have been appointed as Managers for the National Game and Professional Game respectively and they outline how refereeing sits within their roles.

Our major feature is focusing on red cards. We have a series of articles from our very top referees looking at how to identify and deal with all the different sending off offences. This will be followed in the April edition with a focus on yellow card offences and in the September edition we will be looking at effective report writing for red and yellow card offences.

We have news of AESO, a new organisation bringing together the top officials in England’s four major team sports. To mark this new body’s work each sport outlines how they deal with dissent.

We have also introduced what will be regular features on the Laws of the Game, young referees, female referees, fitness, and the Referees’ Association of England.

Happy reading and best wishes for 2009!

David Elleray

As the title would imply, my new role entails focusing on the Professional Game, and means some aspects

of my former role as the Head of Football Administration now move to Kelly Simmons, my National Game counterpart.

These include overseeing the National League System and The FA Women’s Premier League.

However, still within my remit are Registrations, where we are determined to deliver an improved service to the Professional Game, alongside serving all other clubs with players under written contract. Competitions played within the Professional Game – primarily The FA Challenge Cup – also clearly fall within my new role.

When it comes to refereeing, again the framework is around the Professional Game, which means I’ll be working very closely with Neale Barry, The FA’s Head of Senior Referee Development and Keith Hackett, PGMO General Manager as well as with The FA Referees’ Committee.

Under- and overpinning all my work is the delivery of the desire contained in The FA’s Vision 2008-12 to form a more effective partnership with the Professional Game, so we constantly serve the game better. Just like Kelly with the National Game Board, this will mean providing ongoing support to ‘my’ board, the Professional Game Board, and tackling challenges as they arise.

However, some of these challenges are already upon us and are apparent to those in the game. I would list them as:• To deliver high-performing match officials

to the Professional Game, and ensuring the Respect programme becomes embedded at the elite level.

• To deal with the perennial difficulties posed in scheduling all domestic competitions after FIFA and UEFA have published their competition dates. This means working closely with the Fixtures Working Party (comprising representatives from the Premier League, Football League, ourselves at The Football Association and clubs).

• To support youth development within the Professional Game as clubs aim to develop quality players through their Academies and Centres of Excellence. Of course, from The FA’s perspective it is to be hoped that

a greater number of players coming through the Academies and Centres will increase the number of home-grown players participating regularly at the top end of the game and moving on to the national teams.

This is a good example where the partnership aspect of my work will really come to the fore.

Unlike the National Game, there is no Professional Game Strategy as such, given we cannot develop the Professional Game in the way we can the game at grassroots level. But our lead is taken from The FA’s Vision 2008-12 which defines our role as working with the many stakeholders in the Professional Game to address issues affecting the Professional Game whether at domestic, European or international level. The success of the Premier League, Football League, The FA Cup and English club football in Europe is important to the revenue streams needed for the whole game.

Some issues will require ensuring appropriate regulation of the game, and fulfilling one of The FA’s stated aims: to be trusted to lead. Clearly, as the game’s governing body in this country, we already have this role, but our specific responsibility – and duty – is to maintain the integrity of the sport. This integrity has to be seen to exist irrespective of any uncertainties and controversies which will inevitably arise, given the very nature of our entertaining and sometimes volatile sport.

In terms of the achievement I would like to see in the next four years, I would really like to have played a role in embedding all the aspects of the Respect programme, particularly in improving understanding between match officials and club representatives. Our involvement in refereeing at the top end of the game will be key to this work. I would also like to see an agreed policy across the Professional Game for youth development to start to deliver greater numbers of players through the Academies and Centres of Excellence. And in keeping with the challenges outlined earlier, we need a complete review of the fixture calendar for domestic and European football to ensure all competitions can be completed in a managed fashion.

There are some very challenging times ahead – but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

‘ pARTneRSHip wiTH THe pROfeSSiOnAl gAme iS key TO SUCCeSS’Graham Noakes, Professional Game Manager

FACTS AbOUT GrAHAM

Graham Noakes is The FA’s Professional Game Manager. He has spent almost 14 years at the organisation. He has worked as Co-ordinator for the Competitions and Regulations Department, Head of Competitions and Regulations and Head of Football Administration and Refereeing. He is also Company Secretary for the PGMOL.Graham has also filled many roles at club level including Secretary, Press Officer, Fixtures Secretary and Treasurer.


FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



‘ THe nO.1 CHAllenge AT gRASSROOTS level iS All AbOUT RefeReeS’Kelly Simmons, National Game Manager

Having worked for the best part of the last two years on The FA’s National Game Strategy 2008-12, my move to National

Game Manager doesn’t feel like a huge shift in my working life.

That’s because my new role – having formerly been Head of Football Development – is to ensure the full implementation of the Strategy, to which literally thousands of people in the grassroots game have contributed. My responsibility now is to ensure the priorities set by those in the game are honoured – and we deliver against them.

For me, this means taking a less hands-on approach than my previous role, so that my focus remains on the key challenges the game faces right now – and in the future. These challenges include the fact that 2.5 million people want to play more football, but we have a shortage of referees. We also need to produce more skilful young players, and ensure every youth team has at least one FA-qualified coach. I could go on.

Of course, my other key responsibility is to report and work to the National Game Board on every issue – and there will be unforeseen issues which arise; that’s in the nature of the fast-moving ‘business’ we’re in.

However, the no.1 one challenge involves referees. We were very clearly told that having a qualified referee for every game played at grassroots level was players’ top priority. Set that against the 7,000 referees leaving the game every season, primarily because of the abuse they receive on the pitch and from sidelines, and it doesn’t take a genius to see that we have a major problem – which if allowed to continue could destroy the game in some parts of the country.

The response to this problem has taken a number of forms. Firstly, we have invested more than £4 million in Referee Development Officers in every County FA to support the recruitment and retention of referees.

Addressing issuesThen there’s the wide-ranging Respect programme. And that’s already thrown up an example of a current issue we need to address: since the start of the present season, through the media, Respect has become focused on the relationship between players and match officials in the professional game, and we need to shift this focus. There is also a major problem in the parks and club pitches and a lot of our initial focus has been on working with over 350 leagues to fully implement the Respect programme.

The FA Vision 2008-12 created several new senior positions at The FA, including those of National Game Manager and Professional Game Manager – reporting to their respective boards. broadly, whilst the Professional Game is self-explanatory, the ‘National Game’ covers football from the children’s game, through to grassroots and up to and including Conference football.

Kelly Simmons has been selected as National Game Manager and Graham Noakes as Professional Game Manager. Here they cover how they see their new responsibilities and the challenges which lay ahead in these sectors of the game.

So alongside Respect, we will shortly be launching a major ‘Get into Refereeing’ campaign to encourage and recruit new officials – and just as importantly, support them through the various qualification levels.

This ‘pathway for talent’ as it could be described, applies equally to players and coaches – and I see the development of these two areas as two more major challenges for the National Game. A discussion document on a new Coaching Strategy for the game in England has just been published and contains a fresh approach – promoting age-appropriate coaching, focused on the younger age groups. In effect, this approach looks at the ‘how’ of coaching, not the ‘what’.

New generation of playersThrough this work, and initiatives like The FA Tesco Skills Programme, we are looking to breed a new generation of players – who will enjoy the game more because they are more skilled – and

OUr iNiTiAL FOCUS HAS bEEN ON WOrKiNG WiTH OVEr 350 LEAGUES TO iMPLEMENT FULLy THE rESPECT PrOGrAMME.

if they show undoubted talent, are guided through a pathway to reach their potential.

You then have to set all the above against the infrastructure of the game. Do we at The FA support our leagues and clubs enough? Crucially in these straitened times, can we provide a better range of business and development to leagues and their member clubs to keep their heads above water – and to develop?

Finally, all these challenges fall within the four goals the National Game Strategy has set, from which we must not deviate: 1. To grow and retain participation.2. To raise standards and address

abusive behaviour.3. To develop better players.4. To run the game effectively.

It will be a busy four years, but we have a fantastic opportunity to make a genuine and positive difference to the game we all love.

FACTS AbOUT KELLy

Kelly Simmons is The FA’s National Game Manager. She is currently leading the development and implementation of the new FA National Game Strategy which will invest £200 million into grassroots football over the next four year period. She was previously Head of Football Development, establishing The FA Football Development Department and delivering The FA Football Development Strategy 2001-2006.

Kelly is a member of the UEFA Grassroots Panel and FIFA Women’s Committee and is a UEFA Match Delegate.

Kelly received the ‘Member of the British Empire’ Award for her services to football in 2002.


• Take your time• Severity of challenge• Next phase of play• Credibility• About your control

THiNK

• Fitness – Physical/Mental• Viewing positions• Dropping Zones• Scanning radar• reading and anticipating play

SEE

• Messages from players• Speed of challenge• Fair or foul?• Player’s reaction

rECOGNiSE

• Whistle, arms, voice• Calm approach• Air of confidence• Firm but fair• Correct application of Law

ACT

When players enter the field of play to participate in a game of football they have a responsibility to ensure that

when challenging for the ball they do so within the Laws of Association Football and the spirit of the game. Players should be aware that they also have a duty of care towards their opponent when challenging for the ball.

The Laws of Association Football have changed for the better over recent years, protecting the skilful player and outlawing any forms of brutality. A referee has a responsibility to apply the Laws correctly. A referee must see, recognise, think and act on unfair challenges. A referee must distinguish between the following foul challenges:

• Careless means that the player has shown a lack of attention or consideration when making a challenge or he has acted without precaution. Only a free kick is required if a foul is judged to be careless.

• reckless means that the player has acted with complete disregard of the danger to, or consequences for, his opponent. A player who plays in a reckless manner must be cautioned.

• Using excessive force means that the player has far exceeded the necessary use of force and is in danger of injuring his opponent. A player who uses excessive force must be sent off.

Despite the many presentations that I have given to managers and players over the years, I am still surprised at the number of red cards that are issued each season for those career threatening challenges where the player challenging for the ball does so with excessive force, thus endangering the safety of the opponent.

One of the duties of a referee is to SEE, rECOGNiSE, THiNK AND ACT by applying the Laws correctly.

ReCOgniSing fOUl CHAllengeSKeith HackettPGMO General Manager and former FIFA referee

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



Please act in the correct way by applying the Law on challenges using excessive force that endanger the safety of an opponent.A player who jumps into a challenge two footed and airborne is not in control of himself or his challenge. This is also the case where, during the act of launching himself with two feet, he retracts one foot at the last moment.

If he makes contact with the ball and the player he will be dismissed.

If he makes contact with the player and misses the ball he will be dismissed.

A referee also has to be alert to the illegal use of arm and elbow, and detect accurately those challenges where the player raises his arm and executes a deliberate forearm smash into his opponent.

A referee must in these incidents also issue the appropriate sanction of a red card.

Equally, be alert and aware of the player involved in a clash with an opponent who uses his hand and makes contact with his opponent's neck, or slaps/pushes his face, or punches.

Here again the appropriate sanction must

be a red card.

Every player must challenge for the ball with the safety of his opponent in mind and operate with a duty of care and responsibility to the game.

Players must respect their opponents.Players must respect the game.Players must respect the referee.

In carrying out his duties a referee must also Respect the players and Respect the game by applying the Laws in a correct and consistent manner.

A rEFErEE MUST SEE, rECOGNiSE, THiNK AND ACT ON UNFAir CHALLENGES.

FACTS AbOUT KEiTH

Keith Hackett

General Manager PGMOL

Career highlights

1981 100th FA Cup Final and replay

1988European Championship West Germany v ItalyOlympics Semi-Final Brazil v West Germany


Stuart AttwellFIFA and Select Group Referee

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



One of the key functions of match officials is to ensure that all players can participate in a safe and enjoyable game of football. To help us to achieve this, it is increasingly important that we are

able to identify, and take appropriate action against, acts of Serious Foul Play and Violent Conduct.

Serious Foul Play and Violent Conduct are two of the offences for which players can be dismissed from the Field of Play. They are different offences, and although they ultimately result in the same on-field punishment for the offender, they require the referee to use his or her skill, and understanding of Law 12 to identify which offence has been committed, not least because this may affect the subsequent disciplinary action.

Referees and assistants must be able to differentiate between Serious Foul Play and Violent Conduct, and identify which acts fall into each category.

rEF FACTS

Stuart Attwell

1998 Qualified as a referee

2007 Football League referee FA County Youth Cup Final referee

2008 The Football League Play-Off Final referee The FA Trophy Final Fourth Official Appointed Select Group referee

SeRiOUS fOUlplAy ORT viOlenTCOnDUCT?


Serious Foul PlayOver the last 18 months, one of the major talking points in English football has been the apparent increase in the number of players committing acts of Serious Foul Play. This has become something of a concern to many people in the game, including players, coaches, the media, and of course, referees.

The Laws are clear in saying that any player who makes a reckless challenge, which uses excessive force, and endangers the safety of an opponent, must be considered to be guilty of Serious Foul Play.

It is important to remember that Serious Foul Play is only committed when the ball is in play, and usually, when the offending player is involved in challenging an opponent for the ball.

What makes it Serious Foul Play?There are a number of factors that need to be considered if an offence is to be classed as Serious Foul Play:• Is excessive force used?• Is the safety of the opponent endangered?• Is there potential for the player to be

seriously injured?• Is the ball in play and in playing distance

when the challenge is made?• Is the offence committed as part of the

process of competing for the ball?• Is the challenge on an opponent?

How to decide if a challenge is Serious Foul PlayThe manner in which the challenge is made will also help you to decide if the player is guilty of Serious Foul Play. For example:• Does the player have a realistic chance

of winning the ball?• At what speed and intensity does the player

make the challenge?• Is the challenge of a brutal nature?• Does the offending player use

disproportionate force against the opponent?• What direction does the player come from

when making the challenge?• Does the player leave the ground when

making the challenge, and is he in control of his body?

• When making an aerial challenge, are the arms in an unnatural position?

Examples Examples of Serious Foul Play include two footed challenges, challenges where players lunge at an opponent, straight-legged challenges, and players who use their arms as a ‘weapon’ when challenging for the ball. It must be emphasised that contact does not have to be made for a player to be guilty of Serious Foul Play.

We must remember that we have a duty to protect the safety of players. We also want to ensure that positive play is encouraged, and that skilful players are protected. If you consider that a player has fulfilled the criteria for Serious Foul Play, he must be dismissed for his actions.

Violent ConductViolent Conduct can occur in a wide range of situations, and for a variety of reasons. Frequently, players will react violently as a result of frustration, in retaliation to another player, or simply because the ‘red mist’ has descended!

As with Serious Foul Play, the Laws of the Game are clear, and state that a player guilty of Violent Conduct must be shown a red card for their actions. In many situations, an act of Violent Conduct will be easy to interpret. However, there are some occasions when a referee may have to think harder about whether or not the offence was Violent Conduct, or actually Serious Foul Play.

What makes it Violent Conduct?There are a number of factors that need to be considered if an offence is to be classed as Violent Conduct:• Is it violent in nature?• Is it an action that has the potential to

hurt or maim?• Does the player have no opportunity to

play the ball when committing the offence?• Is the action unnecessary?

ExamplesUnlike Serious Foul Play, which can only be committed against an opponent, Violent Conduct can be directed towards anybody, including team-mates, match officials and spectators.

Examples include deliberate use of the elbow (when the ball is not in playing distance), head butting, punching and slapping. It is important

to remember that contact does not have to be made for a player to be guilty of Violent Conduct.

As with Serious Foul Play, there is no place for Violent Conduct in football. We have a duty to protect the image of the game, and actions such as this should be dealt with correctly, and in accordance with Law 12.

iT iS iMPOrTANT TO rEMEMbEr THAT SEriOUS FOUL PLAy iS ONLy COMMiTTED WHEN THE bALL iS iN PLAy.

ViOLENT CONDUCT CAN bE DirECTED TOWArDS ANybODy, iNCLUDiNG TEAM-MATES, MATCH OFFiCiALS AND SPECTATOrS.

Serious Foul Play and Violent Conduct are both offences that we will all encounter at some stage when we are refereeing. It is important that we remain vigilant to these offences, are accurate in our identification of them, and take the appropriate action when required.

It is vitally important that we distinguish clearly in our reports why we judged an offence to be serious foul play or violent conduct – this is very important information for disciplinary committees as the level of punishment may vary according to the nature of the offence.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



SUMMAry


Away from the pitch, most of us would never fire offensive verbal abuse at another human being or remonstrate

with frenzied and vulgar gestures. Football, the sport acknowledged as the ‘beautiful game’, is tarnished when this type of behaviour occurs.

As soon as the popularity of the modern game began to attract large crowds of supporters, disputes became commonplace with match officials often targeted as scapegoats. Today, compounded by a general deterioration in social discipline, abuse of match officials across the country results in fewer officials being prepared to take charge of matches. Only last week I witnessed a referee and his ‘club’ assistant referees getting ‘dogs’ abuse from the players and so-called supporters at a local recreation ground. It seemed as though their comments were being accepted as part of the game and at no time did the match officials question or even challenge the offenders making these remarks.

respect ProgrammeThese outbursts are the main reason why fewer people want to become referees. It’s a question of educating players, managers and fans so they have a different attitude towards referees. The FA’s Respect programme has gone a long way in helping the current situation; match officials must feel confident and safe when they officiate at any level. This programme has highlighted the clear need for everyone in the game to have a more responsible approach to the welfare of the referee.

Dealing with these situations often brings further conflict but we cannot afford to turn a ‘blind eye’ or be afraid of taking the appropriate action. The need to enforce the Laws to the full in conjunction with the governing bodies administering heavy punishments will hopefully act as a deterrent and gradually eradicate this abuse from our game.

Football is a passionate gameWe all have a responsibility as ‘guardians of standards’ to ensure the image of the game is protected. Football is a passionate game and we all need to understand and differentiate between frustration and acts of blatant abuse. Our man-management skills must be used effectively in dealing with players who challenge our authority.

We must not duck the issue. When a player comes up to you and is abusive or is using foul, insulting or offensive language in a wilful manner then you have a duty to the game to take strong, positive action against the offender. A red card can be the only course of action if we are to eradicate this type of disease from our game.

AbUSeSteve bennett Select Group Referee and FIFA instructor

WHY SHOULD WE PUT UP WITH IT?

DEALiNG WiTH THESE SiTUATiONS OFTEN briNGS FUrTHEr CONFLiCT bUT WE CANNOT AFFOrD TO TUrN A ‘bLiND EyE’ Or bE AFrAiD OF TAKiNG THE APPrOPriATE ACTiON.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



rEF FACTS

Steve bennett

1984 Qualified as a Class 3 Referee

1992Joined Linesman’s List Football League

1993Joined Linesman’s List FA Premier League.

1995Joined Linesman’s List FIFA

Joined Referees List Football League

1999Joined Referees List FA Premier League

2001Joined Referees List FIFA.

2003 FA Community Shield Referee

Division 1 Play-off Final Referee

2005 Carling Cup Final Referee

2007 FA Challenge Cup Final Referee


The Law 12 offence of spitting at an opponent or any other person is, in my opinion, one of the most vile acts that any

player can inflict on another.It is almost impossible to stop a spitting offence

from occurring as it is not a ‘routine’ part of football. We often know when a player is about to lose their cool and commit a rash challenge, or when a player is likely to engage in an act of aggression towards an opponent. The warning signs usually come as the temperature of the game rises, with a player’s aggressive body language and verbal output being key signs to their growing loss of self control.

I have been very fortunate that I have not experienced a spitting offence whilst officiating. But I know that spitting must not be tolerated and must be detected and acted upon very strongly as it is an offence which causes (quite rightly) great upset and disgust amongst the players themselves – they regard it as completely unacceptable.

Catalyst to the offenceThe warning signs I would suggest are after a heated exchange, possibly after a bad tackle or challenge. There is often a verbal exchange between two opponents who are in close proximity to each other. The verbal exchange is often the catalyst to the offence.

When spitting occurs events will erupt as tensions rise as such an offence is rare and enrages players. It is vital that as match officials we detect such offences and act in a quick, positive and strong manner. Swift action on our part can prevent further misconduct and confrontation. Continuous short, loud blasts of the whistle and confident body language should

be used to attract the players’ attention and help defuse the situation. Obviously we must be aware of our own personal safety though when a mass confrontation occurs, and a few steps back to observe would be advisable. At the professional level it is an offence when I would be likely to show an immediate red card to prevent an escalation – this will demonstrate to the players that I have seen the offence and have acted strongly and quickly.

It is vital that we submit the correct report after the game to the relevant bodies (check with your local RA if unsure). All the facts must be clearly reported and in my report I would include the following:

• My position in relation to the location of the incident

• How far away I was from the incident?• Whether I had a clear and unobstructed view

of the incident• What I actually saw

Making our colleagues’ job easierIt is important that if you have seen the player spit you say so. How far were the two players away from each other? Were any words exchanged? Did you see the spit on the opponent? Where did it hit the opponent?

The actions leading up to the offence paint a picture for the disciplinary committee. A clearly worded report makes our colleagues’ job easier so it is vital that the facts are clear and the report detailed but concise.

We must deal very strongly with this act and hopefully it will not become a cancer in our beautiful game. I am sure everyone in football will support any referee who dismisses a player for this vile action.

SpiTTingMartin Atkinson FIFA and Select Group Referee

iT iS AN OFFENCE WHiCH CAUSES (qUiTE riGHTLy) GrEAT UPSET AND DiSGUST AMONGST THE PLAyErS THEMSELVES.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



rEF FACTS

Martin Atkinson

1986 Started refereeing

2003 Became a National List Referee

2005 Joined the Select Group Referees List

Officiated at The Football League Division 2 Play-Off Final

2006 Added to the FIFA Referees List

The FA Community Shield referee

2008 The FA Trophy Final referee.


The need for a red card punishment for a player who denies an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity

became clear in the infamous incident in the 1980 FA Cup Final when Willie young of Arsenal committed a deliberate foul on Paul Allen of West Ham United, when Allen had a clear run at goal.

As the Laws stood, the referee George Courtney could only award West Ham a free kick and issue a yellow card. This provoked a national debate about deliberate fouls that denied opponents the chance to score a goal. Following this debate, The FA submitted a suggestion to the International FA Board that this type of offence be punished by a mandatory red card. Initially the suggestion was rejected, but prior to the 1990 World Cup in Italy, FIFA instructed its referees to send off players for ‘professional fouls’ and in 1991 the provision that a ‘professional foul’ should be considered serious foul play was incorporated into the Laws as a Decision of the IFAB. The ‘professional foul’ was made a red card offence in its own right in 1998.

Subsequently, the wording of Law 12 was changed and the term ‘professional foul’ was replaced by ‘denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity’ to remove the implication that in order for a red card to be issued, such a foul had to be deliberate. Currently, if a player denies an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by foul means, whether deliberate or not, he is sent off.

The Laws of the Game now state, under Law 12, that:

• A player is sent off if he denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free-kick or penalty kick.

Viewing angle is all importantWhen dealing with this type of incident, the referee has to make several judgments in determining the appropriate punishment. Firstly, the referee has to decide whether or not a free-kick or penalty kick should be awarded. Often, this type of offence happens when players are moving at speed towards goal and the referee is inevitably ‘chasing play’. The viewing angle is all important and the referee needs to consider the possible benefits of sacrificing proximity in order to gain a better viewing angle by moving left or right rather than simply following play as quickly as possible. Every step left or right improves the view, even though by doing so the players are moving further away from the referee. Full use of assistant referees should be made, especially on those occasions when the assistant is better placed than the referee.

Howard WebbFIFA and Select Group Referee

DeniAl Of ObviOUSgOAl-SCORing OppORTUniTieSOFTEN, THiS TyPE OF

OFFENCE HAPPENS WHEN PLAyErS ArE MOViNG AT SPEED TOWArDS GOAL.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



rEF FACTS

Howard Webb

2001 Promoted to National List Referee

2003 Promoted to Select Group Referee

2005 Promoted to FIFA Referee Community Shield Referee

2007 FIFA World U20 Finals Referee

Worthington Cup Final Referee

2008 UEFA European Championship Finals Referee


It is not only direct free-kick offences which are punishable by a red card when they deny an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity – players who commit indirect free-kick offences are also punished in the same way when they have the same effect, e.g. a player who plays in a dangerous manner and thereby denies an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity should also be shown a red-card, even though the subsequent free-kick would be indirect.

Having determined that an offence has occurred, the referee then has to decide whether the offence denied an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (a red card) or merely denied a promising attack (yellow card). FIFA offer advice in the Guidelines for Referees section of the Laws of the Game stating that the referee should consider the following when deciding whether to send off a player for denying a goal or obvious goal-scoring opportunity;

• The distance between the offence and the goal

• The likelihood of keeping or gaining control of the ball

• The direction of the play• The location and number of defenders

All of these aspects are crucial when determining what your course of action should be. Concentration is so important and referees need to take a mental picture of the exact situation as it happens.

• Where were the other defenders at the exact time of the offence?

• Was the offence a long distance from/wide of goal with a good chance of defenders being able to provide cover by getting back?

• Was the attacking player likely to be able to reach/control the ball successfully?

• Was the attacker moving towards goal?

Make things easierIt’s so important that these judgments are made immediately as the offence occurs and not a few seconds after as the picture can change dramatically in that time. Defenders who are chasing back can appear to have been covering when they were some way back when the offence actually occurred.

Referees can make things easier for themselves by mentally preparing for what might happen. For example, as an attacker closes in on goal, in possession of the ball and with a defender chasing, think to yourself what the punishment will be should the attacker be fouled at each stage of the attack. Say to yourself words like “red, red, red, red, now yellow’ as the play develops. And having penalised an offence, go with your instinct and don’t be swayed by players– defenders will always make a case for a yellow card when they fear red and vice versa in the case of attackers.

As a general and over-riding rule of thumb, think to yourself the following – if the defender had not committed the offence would the attacker have

had a clear opportunity to score a goal. Not a possible opportunity, not a slim chance of scoring but an obvious one. Take away the defender in your mind and think what, on the balance of probabilities, would have been the outcome. If an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (you do not have to be certain that a goal would have resulted) has been denied, a red card is the only possible punishment.

Law 12 goes further and now includes the following; • A player is sent off if he denies the opposing

team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper in his own penalty area).

This aspect of Law makes it a red card offence for an outfield player using the arm deliberately to stop the ball going into his goal; it equally applies to a goalkeeper outside his own penalty area. Many of these types of offences occur on the goal-line between the goalposts which makes the job of the referee much easier as it is obvious that the ball is entering into the goal. The biggest task of the referee here is to determine whether or not the handling offence was deliberate and considerations should include determining whether the hand/arm moved to the ball, the speed of the ball, the distance it has travelled, whether the arm is in a natural position etc. When the handling offence takes place some distance from goal the referee needs to judge whether the player has prevented the ball from entering the

goal and in these cases the referee’s position and viewing angle are crucial; sometimes the assistant has the best view as being side-on the assistant can judge the trajectory of the ball.

Obvious goal-scoring opportunityThis part of Law 12 also applies to a player

who deliberately handles the ball in order to prevent an opponent from having an obvious goal-scoring opportunity; it also applies to a goalkeeper handling outside his own penalty area. Similar considerations need to be applied here as previously.

Finally, remember that when a referee applies advantage for an offence during an obvious goal-scoring opportunity and a goal is scored directly, the offender cannot be sent off but he may be cautioned. Goalkeepers who handle within their own penalty area in order to prevent the ball from entering goal e.g. from a deliberate pass by a colleague, is not be guilty of a handling offence (i.e. no yellow or red card) but is guilty of an offence punishable by the award of an indirect free-kick.

CONCENTrATiON iS SO iMPOrTANT AND rEFErEES NEED TO TAKE A MENTAL PiCTUrE OF THE ExACT SiTUATiON AS iT HAPPENS.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



yOU DO NOT HAVE TO bE CErTAiN THAT A GOAL WOULD HAVE rESULTED.


Arguably of all the offences for which a red card is issued, the second cautionable offence is the one that

should present the least challenge for referees. We are all aware of the cautionable offences listed in Law 12 and are regularly called upon to make judgements throughout the game as to what is and is not a cautionable offence.

For example, in The FA Premier League last season there was an average of about 3.5 yellow cards in each game compared to an average of 0.2 red cards per game. The mathematics alone suggests that we are 18 times more likely to be faced with identifying a cautionable offence than one requiring a dismissal. Applying this experience we should be able to recognise the offence when committed and take the appropriate action.

So what are the challenges we face in dismissing a player for a second cautionable offence?

Ensuring consistencyThe main challenge is ensuring consistency and appropriateness of punishment throughout the game. Players have a right to expect that an offence that is punished with a caution early in the game is punished in the same way later in the game. This is more important when the offence is committed by the same player and necessitates their dismissal.

This makes it particularly important that in issuing those first cautions the referee establishes an appropriate benchmark. The majority of cautions are issued for Unsporting Behaviour which require us to differentiate between those tackles which are careless, warranting only a free-kick, and those that are reckless requiring further sanction. If we set the benchmark too low we risk too many cautions and the possibility of dismissing a player for what is perceived as a “cheap”,

innocuous or even inappropriate offence. Ideally, we want the players to recognise that the second caution is consistent with our previous actions and that the dismissal is just.

The challenge is one of awareness. It is important that we recognise that the player committing the offence has already received a caution. This awareness is fundamental as it allows the referee both to manage the situation more efficiently and ensure that the ultimate punishment is appropriate to the offence committed.

influence your decisionKnowing that the offending player is to be dismissed enables the referee to move more quickly to isolate the player and prevent any confrontation. It also enables the referee to issue the cards more effectively, diffusing any attempts by both teams to influence your decision and allowing the offending player to leave the field with dignity.

The key to this awareness is concentration. Referees need to remind themselves continually during the game which players have received cautions, particularly in those difficult matches where several cautions have been issued. There are many opportunities during stoppages to glance at our notebooks as a reminder or for the referee to recite the numbers of the players cautioned as an aide memoir. There really is no excuse for a referee to be cautioning a player only to realise as they take the details that “Oh, I’ve already cautioned you!”

The final duty of the referee in these situations is to ensure that the disciplinary report details both offences fully. We should resist the temptation to report the first offence superficially and concentrate only on the second that led to the dismissal. Both offences are important in establishing that we have been consistent in dismissing a player for a second cautionable offence.

SeCOnD yellOw CARDMike riley FIFA and Select Group Referee

THE CHALLENGE iS ONE OF AWArENESS. iT iS iMPOrTANT THAT WE rECOGNiSE THAT THE PLAyEr COMMiTTiNG THE OFFENCE HAS ALrEADy rECEiVED A CAUTiON.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



rEF FACTS

Mike riley

1980 Started refereeing

1989 National List of Assistant Referees

1994/95 National List of Referees

1996/97 FA Premier League

1997/98 FA Vase Final – Referee

1998/99 FA Cup Final – Fourth Official

1999 FIFA International List

2000/01 FA Charity Shield – Referee

U-18 European Championship – Referee

2001/02 FA Cup Final – Referee

2003/04 Carling Cup Final - Referee

2004 European Championship – Referee

2005/06 Championship Play-Off Final – Referee


The four major team sports in the United Kingdom have come together to establish the Association of Elite Sports Officials

(AESO) to help raise standards of officiating and work towards an improved perception and appreciation of the vital role played by sports officials.

AESO was launched at Twickenham in October and its main aims are to:

• Improve standards of officiating through inter-sport exchange of ideas and practices

• Develop a more positive image of sports officials

• Engender a greater appreciation of the dedication of sports officials and their key role in sport

• Assist sports governing bodies in recruiting and retaining sports officials, especially females, young people and ethnic minorities

Initially, AESO’s activities will be led by the full-time referees and umpires from Football, Cricket, Rugby Union and Rugby League. The governing bodies of these four sports support the initiative and through regular communication between the sports it is intended that AESO will make a significant contribution to raising the standards of officiating, recruiting and retaining sports officials and changing the public’s view of referees and umpires.

AESO will provide opportunities for full-time officials of the different sports to exchange ideas and share their experiences by arranging conferences, seminars and workshops. This inter-disciplinary approach is an innovative way of ensuring that professional officiating skills can

be shared and developed to enhance the key role that officials play in their sports. Improving the standard of officiating in sport through the exchange of ideas and practices will underpin all the work that AESO undertakes.

The media’s portrayal of officials significantly affects the public’s perception of the competence, dedication and role of sports officials. At times, the media’s negativity and criticism (sometimes ill-informed) contribute to a poor appreciation of the dedication and professionalism of sports officials and the vital role they play in sport. AESO aims to be the voice of officiating and to work actively to present a balanced response to events and controversies, ensuring that the officials’ perspective is represented. To be effective in presenting and explaining the officials’ line, AESO will be proactive in addressing the issues facing all sports and will foster links with other established sports officials bodies to provide responses to key events.

AESO will challenge the often negative caricature of the official and work with governing bodies and all other stakeholders to tackle the abuse and lack of appreciation and respect which discourage people from taking up or continuing with their officiating, ultimately to the detriment of the sports concerned.

AESO hopes to play a key role in assisting the recruitment and retention of sports officials by making available high profile officials for recruitment/retention campaigns and arranging for elite officials to visit schools, youth clubs, universities etc… There will be a strong focus on recruiting and supporting female, young and ethnic minority officials.

The Active Members Group (AMG) is made up of two active full-time officials from each sport and will meet on a regular basis, working in an advisory capacity and at an operational level.

At their inaugural meeting, the Active Members’ Group focussed on a number of key areas:

• Opening up the officiating profession by removing the mystique surrounding the official.

• Highlighting the positive contribution made by officials.

• Emphasising and supporting the opportunities officiating brings (especially to young people), in particular the chance to be actively involved in sport at the highest domestic and international levels.

• Ensuring that current officials accept their responsibilities as role models.

• Working with the media to try to develop a more positive image of the sports official.

AESO also has the potential to act as a ‘think tank’ for sporting bodies to debate, assess and propose amendments to laws etc…

Through hard work and inter-sport co-operation, AESO aims to make a significant contribution to sports officiating in the UK resulting in higher standards of officiating, a greater number of active sports officials, and an improved perception and appreciation of the vital role sports officials play.

There follows a series of articles showing how the four different sports approach dissent.

ASSOCiATiOn Of eliTe SpORTS OffiCiAlS (AeSO)

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



THiS iNTEr-DiSCiPLiNAry APPrOACH iS AN iNNOVATiVE WAy OF ENSUriNG THAT PrOFESSiONAL OFFiCiATiNG SKiLLS CAN bE SHArED AND DEVELOPED.

AESO Executive board

Chairman David Elleray (Football Association)

Vice Chairmen Stuart Cummings (Rugby League) andEd Morrison (Rugby Football Union)

Chief Executive Officer Chris Kelly (England & Wales Cricket Board)

Technical Director Keith Hackett (PGMO)

The Active Members board

Football Mike Riley and Howard Webb

Cricket Nigel Llong and Richard Kettleborough

rugby League Steve Ganson and Phil Bentham

rugby Union Wayne Barnes and Chris White


For clarification, dissent, as written in the iCC Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials, is divided into two levels; with

the same code used at First Class Level.

1. Dissent of an umpire’s decision by word or action

2. Serious dissent of an umpire’s decision by word or action

Many officials of all sports will contest that dissent is dissent and will be steadfast in upholding their views. On occasions when dealing with (non serious) dissent, a quiet word with the player or his coach is usually more beneficial than the heavy handed approach, however serious dissent should always be reported. The protocol we use at first class level is that the player and his representative (captain, coach) are required to attend a hearing held by the two umpires at the end of that day's play. A Code of Conduct report form is filled in stating the events that took place, with the accused having the right to reply through the form. The offence is graded over four levels. Players can acquire a series of points through dissent and other offences. A player who acquires over nine points during a two year period will face a disciplinary panel. Any umpire of the International Playing Control Team (of which there are four) can lay a charge against a player or team management. The match referee will then hold the hearing and lay down the penalty as per ICC guidelines.

Failure to report an incident is letting your colleagues, the governing body and the game down. Not only does dissent undermine the Official, it also can severely disrupt the atmosphere and even the flow of a game. It is important to deal with all incidents, ensuring that you are not allowing the player to become a serial offender.

In today’s sporting culture players are not quite as quick to accept a ruling. Many of the problems regarding dissent arise from a lack of respect for the official and the game. Added to that, players' earnings have increased hugely over the last decade, which in itself creates a great deal of pressure to perform. Players are much more likely to argue a ruling if they know their place in the squad and earnings will be affected through a poor performance on the field. Fortunately officials now have televised replays showing the dissent, making it more difficult for the players to contest the decision or gain the crowd’s sympathy when the big replay screen captures the play in question.

However, it is important to remember that officials and equipment are not infallible and genuine errors can be made. The governing bodies and officials will always act in a fair and just manner and attempt to resolve issues in a professional environment and further the development of the game.

DEALING WITH DISSENT

Nigel Llong ECB Full List Umpire and ICC International Panel Umpire

CRiCkeT

iN TODAy’S SPOrTiNG CULTUrE PLAyErS ArE NOT qUiTE AS qUiCK TO ACCEPT A rULiNG.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



Nigel Llong (left) taking the field at Lord's with Darryl Hair

UMPirE FACTS

Nigel Llong is an ECB Full List Umpire and ICC International Panel Umpire.He played for Kent CCC and his highest first class score was 130.

1996 Played in the Benson & Hedges Final, Kent vs Surrey

2000Started umpiring on the ECB Reserve List

2002 Promoted to the ECB Full List

2004 Appointed as ICC TV Umpire

2006 Appointed to the full International Panel


WE HAVE THE USE OF THE “SiN biN”, WHErE A yELLOW CArD iS SHOWN TO THE PLAyEr AND HE iS OrDErED OFF THE FiELD FOr A PEriOD OF TEN MiNUTES.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE


THE REFEREESASSOCIATION OF ENGLAND rugby League has always been in a unique

position, where the respect afforded to officials is something instilled into the

mindset of players at grassroots level. This does not mean that it doesn’t crop up throughout the course of a match as, like all professional sports people, rugby League players are also passionate and sometimes overstep the mark.

One of the strengths of our sport is dealing with dissent, with the RFL handing down the appropriate disciplinary action to offenders and supporting the Match Officials and their actions during a game.

In Rugby League, we look to pick up any direct dissent directed at any of the on-field officials (referee and touch judges). The first type of dissent is where players are mouthing off in an aggressive manner directly at the official/s; this differs from a player asking a question. Our approach is purely on a respect basis, if a player shows the official respect then the referee will show that player the same level of respect back. However, if the player is only going to be aggressive and unmanageable then the referee must deal with this form of dissent. The other form of dissent that is required to be dealt with is visual where a player makes gestures through use of their hands to display frustration; this form of dissent is a greater indicator to the fans as it’s visual dissent for all to see and it’s important that it’s dealt with.

As officials we have the initial penalty if a player disputes a decision either verbally or visually. If a penalty has already been awarded we are

afforded the opportunity to advance the mark 10 metres, once. This is a huge advantage for the non-offending team, as figures suggest that on the back of a penalty being awarded points are scored between 60-70% of the time.

In most instances the penalty and/or the advancing of the mark is enough to ensure that players immediately stop, either through showing their own self control or having a team-mate step in to assist and ensure that the player goes no further. If, however, the player continues to display dissent, we have processes in place after giving the player two opportunities to show control, we have the use of the “Sin Bin”, where a yellow card is shown to the player and he is ordered off the field for a period of ten minutes. This is a huge loss for a side, as defending with a player down not only has an adverse effect during that ten minute period but also for the remainder of the game as a result of the extra energy expended by the other players covering from being a player short.

In rare cases, if the player continues with dissent after being sent to the “Sin Bin” the referee can dismiss the player from the field for the entire match, by producing the red card.

A lot of preventative measures are taken by the referee during the course of a match by engaging the captain. Making it the captain's responsibility to control his players, usually works in that it shows that the referee is attempting to work with the players and is not looking to react hastily. Our working relationship with the captains is one of our main strengths when stepping out onto the field.


Ashley Klein Rugby League Match Official

RUgby leAgUe

rEF FACTS

Ashley Klein is a full-time rugby league match official. He was educated in Australia and previously worked as a Systems Test Analyst before moving to England and becoming Match Officials Development Officer for the RFL.

2005 Named as the Powergen Referee of the Year

2006 Gillette International Referee of the Year

2008Rugby League World Cup Final Referee


DON’T LEAVE iT TO SOMEONE ELSE TO DEAL WiTH. UNiTED WE STAND, DiViDED WE FALL.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE


THE REFEREESASSOCIATION OF ENGLAND Within rugby circles we have always

looked on and thought how other sports were so envious of rugby

referees and how much control they have over the players during any game. To a certain degree this is a positive approach by referees to the game and the players, but a tremendous deal of credit must go to those players, coaches, supporters and administrators in the English game.

We as rugby referees do not have the same issues as football when dealing with dissent, as cases and actions by players are few and far between. A referee is expected to communicate with players as he/she would wish to be communicated with. We have very good relationships with players and coaches across several divisions and the players are taught from an early age to respect each other, respect the game and respect the referee.

As a former Head of Sport in a Prep school, I know our values in the game are bought into by all. As an elite match official I have a direct responsibility to the game, to ensure that it is played in the right spirit. To this end the players also have to respect their responsibilities towards the match officials.

The Captain is the first member of the team to deal with. We often inform him/her of issues relating to their team, including vociferous players. The second option is to communicate with the player and or penalise him/her. Often a

quiet word with them directly can appease the situation. Thirdly, a player can be yellow carded; within Rugby Union this carries a penalty of ten minutes in the ‘Sin Bin’. This gives the opposition a numerical advantage for those ten minutes. And finally a red card can be shown to a player for depending on the degree of the dissent.

Within rugby we have no hard and fast rule on the use of sanctions and cards. Every referee understands the spirit of the game and the way it is to be played. We also believe that we should not leave the issue of player dissent solely to the referee. As elite match officials we share a collective understanding of our role in the domestic game.

One issue we experience is that of microphones. Several grounds around England use RefLink. The system allows spectators to hear the referee directly and also the players can be heard through the unit as well. This places more responsibility on us to deal with dissent and the way the players talk to each other and the referee. Televised matches see the referees voice broadcast to the viewers at home. The pressure on the referee’s management can be the difference between good and very good officials.

With the very nature of our physical game there are flash points that can occur in a variety of situations. The IRB (International Rugby Board) has increased the role of Assistant Referees which gives us two more sets of eyes when it comes to managing difficult players in the game.


Andrew Small Rugby Union Match Official

RUgby UniOn

rEF FACTS

Andrew Small is a full time Rugby Union referee.

1993 Began refereeing

2002 Continued referee career in England

2004-2005 U19 Rugby World Cup Referee

2006 Refereed The Churchill Cup Made Guinness Premiership Debut

2007/8-2008/9 Refereed IRB International Sevens Series

2007 Made Heineken Cup debut


DOiNG NOTHiNG iS NOT AN OPTiON.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE


THE REFEREESASSOCIATION OF ENGLAND Passion plays a big part in making

Association Football the popular sport that it is. The game provokes feelings of

happiness and disappointment, joy and frustration. Emotions are stirred – the organisers of the Euro 2008 Finals told us to ‘Expect Emotions’ when adopting this phrase as the tournament’s official slogan. And of course the game creates debate – not every decision is clear cut. Everybody is entitled to an opinion but The Laws of Association Football dictate that it is only the opinion of the referee which matters, and it is final. However, the passionate nature of the game means the participants’ opinions are sometimes made known to others!

It’s generally accepted that it is reasonable for a player to show mild disappointment without the need for formal action by the referee. We all know how much the game matters to everybody involved but any show of disappointment needs to be instant and not excessive. A key task of the referee is to recognise and distinguish between reasonable disappointment and acts of dissent which challenge the match officials’ authority.

Dealing with dissent/disappointment is a little like dealing with fouls – the severity and the degree of intent are important elements to consider. Sometimes, a ‘stepped approach’ (quiet word - public rebuke - caution) can be used, although not every ‘step’ in the ‘disciplinary ladder’ has to be taken. The referee needs to react firmly but appropriately.

Consider a scenario where a player makes critical comment – loud enough for those in immediate earshot to hear (including the referee) but not beyond that. He is not acting out of disappointment and action is needed as unchecked, his comments are likely to escalate. A quiet word may be appropriate. Should he repeat these actions, a public rebuke and/or use of the captain to assist in managing the player can have a great impact as any subsequent yellow card has credibility in everyone’s

eyes - “well, the ref did warn him!” The yellow card has a real deterrent value, even though the player’s actions seemed relatively minor and may not, in isolation, have undermined the referee’s authority.

However, had the player, in the first instance, waved his arms in the air demonstratively, slammed the ball into the ground in disgust or angrily kicked it away, run to an assistant referee to remonstrate or suggested that he needed glasses then this public challenge to the match official’s authority must be immediately sanctioned with a yellow card. This sends out a clear message that such actions are not acceptable. Doing nothing is not an option.

Referees should be pro-active and identify at an early stage when players are becoming frustrated. Well chosen words at the right time can assist in calming a player or in gaining their co-operation. Communication is vital in gaining players’ trust and respect. However, talking too much or at the wrong time can be seen as a sign of weakness/uncertainty thereby encouraging dissent. When making key decisions use strong body language and clear signals to let everybody know that the decision is not open to debate. After the incident you can do your talking ‘off the ball’. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge from time to time that a mistake may have been made or that you can’t see everything as this will show your human side. Players will generally respond positively to this if you don’t do it too often and wait for the outcome of that phase of play before admitting your mistake!

All dissent needs to be addressed. The Laws of the Game give you the powers to take disciplinary action but you can also use a wide range of management skills to ensure that your actions have credibility and are accepted. By distinguishing between disappointment and dissent, dealing strongly with public shows of disagreement, taking a stepped approach to less public acts, and being pro-active too, you should be able to maintain your authority.

Remember, if left unchecked, dissent is like a cancer which will grow and undermine your control.


Howard Webb FIFA and Select Group Referee

fOOTbAll

rEF FACTS

Howard Webb

2001 Promoted to National List Referee

2003 Promoted to Select Group Referee

2005 Promoted to FIFA Referee

Community Shield Referee

2007 FIFA World U20 Finals Referee

Worthington Cup Final Referee

2008 UEFA European Championship Finals Referee


35

During the winter months there are a few key training principles that should be adhered to in order to help avoid injury

when refereeing and training.First and foremost, in order to help prevent

injury and to maximise performance during matches and training sessions, especially during the winter months, it is important that the body is physiologically prepared for exercise. This can only be achieved via a thorough warm-up.

The warm-up is a crucial period prior to any exercise bout, whether it is training or a competitive match, as it prepares a referee both physiologically and psychologically for the forthcoming exercise. From a physiological perspective it is crucial to warm-up as sports science research has demonstrated that this enhances subsequent exercise performance and in turn helps to avoid injury.

There are a number of physiological reasons as to why this is and these revolve around an increase in muscle (and whole body) temperature and also an increase in blood flow to the exercising muscles. Research has consistently demonstrated that warm muscles perform better than cold muscles and they are also less likely to get injured, especially during the initial stages of a training session or match.

Along with an increase in muscle and core temperature, a warm-up serves to improve performance in many different ways: • On increase in the amount of oxygen (which is

used for energy production and regeneration) delivered to the working muscles as a warm up progresses increasing heart rate which in turn increases the amount of blood pumped to the working muscles.

• An increase in the amount of oxygen that is extracted from the blood at working muscles.

• All muscle contractions are initiated via nerve messages and these messages travel faster at higher temperatures. Therefore muscle contractions are more forceful and rapid following a warm-up.

• The stiffness of the synovial fluid around a joint has been demonstrated to decrease following a rise in body and muscle temperature following a warm-up thus enabling joints to move more freely during exercise. This helps to decrease the risk of injury during the early stages of exercise by promoting more efficient movements.

It is important to stress that the warm-up prior to exercise should be sufficient enough to raise temperatures and increase blood flow without depleting energy stores and causing fatigue.

AvOiDing injURy in winTeR COnDiTiOnS

Matthew Weston bSc (Hons) MSc CSCS

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



Exercise should then commence as soon as possible after the end of the warm-up. A thorough 10-15’ cool down after exercise is also recommended as this will help return the body to its pre-exercise state in a safe and healthy manner.

Other important considerations when training during the winter months are footwear and clothing. Well designed running shoes should be worn throughout the training year in order to prevent injury. However, when training in colder conditions it is important that training shoes have a full grip to help reduce any possibility of slipping on wet and icy surfaces whilst running. Also, be sure to wear clothing that will help to regulate body temperature. For example, many sportswear companies now produce purposely designed training wear for the winter months. If such clothing is not available then lightweight (and waterproof), multiple layers of clothing trap more body heat than one bulky layer. Several layers of clothing allow you to add or subtract layers according to your comfort whilst training.

During the winter months protecting your extremities is one of the most important considerations. Therefore a good pair of sports gloves is recommended as are a comfortable, thick pair of socks. A comfortable hat will also help to reduce the heat loss that occurs from the head.

THErE SHOULD bE FOUr DiSTiNCT PHASES TO A WArM-UP

1. Cardiovascular warm-up: this should ideally consist of jogging two laps of the pitch, gradually building your heart rate up to 85% of maximum (± 5’).

2. Dynamic mobility exercises performed over ideally a 10-15m course. Exercises to include are: heel raises, high knees, lateral stepping, skipping, backwards jogging, side shuffling, hurdle walks (in to out & out to in) and grapevine. Repeat x3-4 for each exercise, jogging slowly back to the start after each individual exercise.

3. Dynamic mobility and individual stretching routines.

4. High-Intensity activities to finish off: x2-3 10m sprints at 80% max speed x2-3 20m sprints at 80% max speed x2-3 10m sprints at max speed x2-3 20m sprints at max speed jog slowly back to the start after each repetition

THE WArM UP iS A CrUCiAL PEriOD PriOr TO ANy ExErCiSE bOUT, WHETHEr iT iS TrAiNiNG Or A COMPETiTiVE MATCH.

rEF FACTS

Matthew Weston graduated from Liverpool John Moores University with both a BSc and MSc degree in Sports Science. He commenced work as a full-time Sports Scientist before starting work with match officials.

1998 Began working with the English Premier and Football League match officials

2000 Started part-time work with the Premier League as the referees’ Sports Scientist

2006 Appointed as a Fitness Coach for the FIFA World Cup

2007 Invited to lecture at the 6th World Congress of Science & Football


FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



For most lads growing up in a footballer’s family the thought of going into refereeing probably wouldn’t ever enter

their heads. This was the case for many years with Joe, son of Shrewsbury manager Paul Simpson, whilst playing local football from the age of eight.

However, he openly admits the realisation of not being able to achieve the heights of the Premier League and Football league like his Dad, and brother Jake, 18, second year YTS player at Blackburn Rovers, left a big dilemma for him.

Joe said: “I’ve always lived in a football environment, with Dad playing and then managing at Rochdale, Carlisle, Preston and now Shrewsbury, so I know the tension the game brings.

“I’ve experienced the countdown to Saturday, how he would prepare and how he would meet the demands of the pressure. It was all a tremendous influence on my life.”

It was this very influence that led to Joe taking up the whistle in exchange for the dream of the more glamorous world of playing. He added: “I’ve always had the dream of experiencing that buzz myself. I’ve always wanted the whole ‘living for Saturday feeling’ and to be able to perform in the best stadiums, in front of huge crowds with the best players”, something his Dad achieved in a career spanning 25 years, with seven different clubs including top flight spells with Man City and Derby, as well as numerous England youth and Under-21 caps.

It was through Paul and his Dad (Joe’s grandfather) that the idea of refereeing was first raised whilst watching Carlisle. “It had got to a stage where Dad was finishing playing and although I still supported him it wasn’t the same not seeing him out there. One week, after another decision seemingly cost the club a win, I was talking with Dad and he commented that refereeing is very hard but it is a great career to have. A couple of weeks later I was on the course,” Joe stated.

Understand the way players thinkPaul said: “I have to say I was a bit shocked when he decided to take up refereeing, but he has surprised me with how well he has coped, and progressed through the levels. He has always been a really keen player and fan, and his knowledge of the game, and the life in football, seems to help him understand the way players think and behave.”

As well as presenting Joe with the idea to be a referee, it’s evident he has learnt more than the ‘buzz’ of a Saturday from his dad’s playing career. “Dad has always been a true professional in the way he conducts himself on and off the pitch, and we’ve always been taught that with the right attitude we can achieve anything, whatever that is in. I have taken a lot from that and even now I try to prepare for games in a professional manner, just things like eating properly before matches and making sure I’m fit.

“I have quite a set routine now which I think helps me come kick off as it means I’m focused on the task in hand.

i’VE ALWAyS LiVED iN A FOOTbALL ENVirONMENT.

rEF FACTS

Joe is a promising young referee, and is just 19 years old.

He is currently studying for Sports Science degree at Liverpool John Moores University.

2004 Started Refereeing aged 15Gained consecutive promotions to Level 5

2007 Promoted to Level 4 aged 17

wHen SATURDAyCOmeS An insight into

the footballing life of Joe Simpson


My routine usually involves making sure I’ve slept well and that my kit is all packed the day before; I plan my food for the day around the kick-off time. For example, for 3pm I’ll eat breakfast earlier so I can have lunch earlier. There is nothing worse than not eating or eating too close to the game. I always remember when I was younger that what we got for dinner, and the time depended on the time to the next game.

Appreciate both sides of the argument“I think my refereeing benefits from having seen so many games of football as I think it has provided me with a good reading of the game, despite still being young. You also learn how to appreciate both sides of the argument and develop an appreciation of what is the best way to manage players and the different types you come across.

“This sort of background can be crucial when you want to progress as there are so many good referees out there and I know how well I must do to progress up the ladder. I think this can help balance out some of the problems I can face due to my age, as I look young for my age, and you can get the old ex-pro’s and the like trying to push you that bit further”.

Not one to shy away from his weaknesses, the 19-year-old appreciates that man-management is

definitely the most difficult thing for a man of such a young age. “It’s the thing I’ve found hardest as in non-league football you meet the players who’ve been through it all and like to keep trying to put things in your head to push you into decisions. As a young referee it can often be the thing you need to learn to deal with the most in order to progress. However, it can be done and you look at lads like Michael Oliver and Stuart Attwell doing so well to see that if you work hard enough you can progress quickly.”

Saturday evenings in the Simpson household can often bring very interesting discussions and both Joe and Paul talked interestingly of how different their opinions can be on decisions that have occurred either in Shrewsbury games or on highlights of other games.

Laughing, Joe mentions: “Dad can often be wound up by something that’s happened and it’s interesting how I can see it from a different perspective to what the rest of them do. However, part of me is also on his side as that’s the view I’ve had and so I can often agree. It can get quite serious sometimes and there is the occasion where we can’t agree, but that just shows how much opinion is involved in decisions, which ultimately is why it can be so hard for referees as not everyone will agree with a single decision.”

Paul replied: “The discussions are sometimes heated, depending on the performance of my game’s referee! I can see Joe’s side of the argument but maybe Saturday night I am still a bit raw. I think more than actually agreeing with the decisions Joe can often put across what the officials were possibly thinking. Even when we both see it’s wrong it just means I can appreciate what the referee is trying to do.”

Very competitiveAfter passing his exam in 2004 Joe refereed in Cumbria until Paul’s move to Preston saw him move to Lancashire, where after six months he gained his level 4 aged just 17, something Joe recognises isn’t easy. “I was very lucky from the start as I had some great people helping me get started, such as Geoff Turrell (Cumberland FA), Chris Backhouse and all the lads at Carlisle RA and later the Lancashire FA. They helped me develop and gave me the belief that I could referee at level 4.

“However, it wasn’t as easy as I thought when I came down to Lancashire. This level is very competitive and with a lot of good referees around, I soon realised that I was going to have to work very hard and wasn’t going to cruise straight up. I’m currently refereeing on the North West Counties Division One and lining on the

Contributory leagues and it is evident week in, week out seeing lads who’ve been at this level for a lot longer than I’ve even been refereeing, how difficult it will be.

“However, I do definitely want to progress as far as I can go in the future. I know with a lot of work, given my young age, that I’ve got a great opportunity given the way The FA is encouraging young lads like me to progress. I haven’t got a limit to where I want to get to as I would like to go all the way, but I’m sure that everyone does. For now I’m just focusing on enjoying my refereeing and the opportunities it gives me, and hopefully I’ll get a bit of luck to help me on my way if I keep at it.”

What is pleasing is to see that the father-son relationship has helped Paul appreciate referees: “The role of a referee is constantly been hammered, but if all young refs can be as enthusiastic to be the best that they can, as Joe is, then the standard has got to improve. It’s a very difficult job but with the right guidance I am sure we can all work to make the standard better and ultimately improve our game.”

Maybe this case could pave the way for more sons and families of players and managers; thus benefiting refereeing through not just numbers but helping to educate the family members on the pitch.

i HAVE TO SAy i WAS A biT SHOCKED WHEN HE DECiDED TO TAKE UP rEFErEEiNG, bUT HE HAS SUrPriSED ME HOW WELL HE HAS COPED, AND PrOGrESSED THrOUGH THE LEVELS.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



Paul Simpson, Shrewsbury Town Manager.


Una Hong, Korean republic and FiFA referee, studying and refereeing in England, reports on her Olympic experience.

To be involved in the Olympics is a dream for those who love sport. When i registered for a new referees’ course in

South Korea in 1999, i had several goals that i wanted to achieve in the future. One of these goals was to attend the 2008 Olympics and in April this year i learnt that i was selected to officiate at the women’s football event in China.

A few months passed and finally I was on the plane on the way to Beijing. The flight took approximately 10 hours before we arrived in the most populated country (1.3 billion) in the world.

The refereeing team trained on the pitch at the Beijing Union University and the session was led by FIFA Fitness Instructors in very hot and humid conditions. We also participated in technical training, which takes place at all FIFA Tournaments. We worked on scenarios such as whether fouls were committed inside or outside the penalty area, positioning, off-sides, control of the technical area, etc. It was essential that we concentrated 100% as these situations could arise in our games.

Back at the hotel we took part in a mental preparation session. Two psychologists provided great advice, preparing us to perform to the best of our abilities with positive thinking, confidence and the optimum level of nervousness.

Our appointments were released two days before the opening match. I was selected to referee China v Sweden. I was teamed with two Australian assistant referees in the group matches. I could not wait to referee my first game – I had prepared so hard and was eager to get started.

Victory for the hostsThe match took place in Tianjin. Thanks to the new fast train, it took us only half an hour from Beijing rather than the usual four hours. On arrival in Tianjin we checked in at the hotel, ate some lunch and then took some rest before heading to the stadium. When we arrived at the Tianjin Sport Centre Stadium 90 minutes before kick-off, the 38,000 supporters were full of excitement and expectation following the previous match between Canada and Argentina.

Finally, the match kicked off and China scored after just six minutes which increased the noise level in the stadium dramatically! Sweden

equalised towards the end of the first half but a goal from Hun Duan put China back in front and the match ended with a victory for the hosts.

Another exciting opportunity came my way when I was invited to attend the Opening Ceremony. As I reached the Bird’s Nest Stadium my emotions rose with anticipation. I took lots of photos in front of the stadium, which was constructed with a very unique design, and then entered. Performances and music kept us entertained until the athletes parade began. As a South Korean, I became quite emotional when our athletes came out on to the track in 176 position out of 204 countries. The ceremony concluded with the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron followed by a firework display.

My second refereeing appointment was Nigeria v Brazil at the Beijing Workers’ Stadium. The stadium was almost full and the atmosphere was beyond words. As it was the last day of the group stage, the pressure on the teams was high. I awarded a penalty kick to Nigeria mid-way through the first half which they converted. However, the outstanding skill of the Brazilians meant that they went on to overturn the deficit and win the game 3 – 1.

A dream come trueHaving travelled back from Shenyang where I was appointed fourth official in the Quarter Final match between Sweden and Germany, the appointments were about to be released for the Semi-Finals. I was stunned to hear my name called out! I can’t express that moment in words. To be appointed as referee for an Olympic Semi-Final was definitely a dream come true.

The next day my team flew to Shanghai for the match. I took a deep breath and blew the whistle to signal the start of the Semi-Final. The Germans started better, scoring the first goal in the tenth minute but Brazil’s creativity and composure improved as time went on and the match finished with a 4 – 1 victory for Brazil. It was such an honour and pleasure to referee two of the top teams on the Olympic stage.

I can say that my 23 days at the Olympics in Beijing was the most fantastic experience in my refereeing career so far. I truly enjoyed every minute of it. Not only had I enjoyed the refereeing but also the friendship and support amongst the refereeing team. The experience of the 2008 Beijing Olympics will remain in my memory forever.

myOlympiC expeRienCe

i CAN SAy THAT My 23 DAyS AT THE OLyMPiCS iN bEiJiNG WAS THE MOST FANTASTiC ExPEriENCE iN My rEFErEEiNG CArEEr SO FAr.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



Una HongFIFA Referee rEF FACTS

Education BSc, Sports Science, Ewha Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea

Master, Business Administration, Ewha Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea

PhD candidate, Sport Policy, Loughborough University, U.K.

refereeingJan 2003- present: FIFA Referee (The youngest FIFA Referee ever in South Korea)

Nov 2004 FIFA U19 Women’s Championship, Thailand

Aug.2006 FIFA U20 Women’s Championship, Russia

Dec 2006 Asian Games, Doha

Aug 2008 Beijing Olympics

Nov 2005 -present Level 4 referee in the U.K.

Highlight16 Aug. 2008: Semi-final in Beijing Olympics between Brazil and Germany


i have been made aware that some referees across the Country have been written to directly by HMr&C in relation to the

declaration of fees.I am sure you are aware that Referees,

instructors and assessors are not employed by the County and therefore you are self employed and it is your responsibility to declare any income. Now, if I were a referee then I would be making records of match fees and expenses after each game.

I would expect that if you are a referee at a grassroots level, then you could incur a self employed trading loss, which could then be offset against any income. In fact, it is likely that you would be in a position for a tax repayment.

I have outlined a few vital points and how you could account for your match fee and expenses.• Make sure that you declare all income from

refereeing. It is a matter for you to inform HMR&C of your status

On this basis I would expect the allowable expenses to exceed any income.

I hope you find this useful and if you have any further question please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected]

DeClARATiOn Of feeS

The FA referee Department's 18th international instructors course was held at a new location, Dunchurch Park Hotel

and Conference Centre. A grand old building, steeped in tradition, was the backdrop of a hugely successful week. 41 participants from 22 countries from across the world came to England to develop their skills and knowledge to enable them to transfer their experiences to referees in their respective countries. Countries represented included Australia, Ghana, Denmark and Trinidad & Tobago.

There were two courses running alongside each other. We had 23 participants on the International Course and 18 on the Advanced Course which is designed to offer higher-level education training for people directly responsible, in their respective associations, for the education and development of referees.

It was a tough week in which participants were asked to work long into the night preparing both inside and outside teaching activities. Main sessions were offered on the mechanics of preparing and presenting as well as the principles of Generic Tutor Training. The Group Instructors, the seven Regional Managers, superbly supported by Craig Cox (Devon) and George McCaffery (Wiltshire) were fundamental to the success of the course. They worked closely with each participant, offering advice, guidance and developing action plans for the future.

On the Tuesday of the course a Championship match was observed during which the groups were given different tasks to perform. This resulted in an in-depth analysis of the match officials' performance, as well as offering participants information on various assessment tools and techniques.

An exhausting week but a great week in which many new friends were made. To sum up the feelings of the course and the impact it has on these wonderful people I attach feedback from Con, a participant on the course from Australia.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



ENSUrE THAT yOU rECOrD AND DECLArE ALL ExPENDiTUrE

• Registration and subscription fees• Kit including fitness training• Laundry expenses• Training expenses• Accountancy fees if applicable• Insurance(likely to be part of your

registration, but you may have additional)• Mileage expenses at approved mileage

rates including travel for: - Refereeing - CPD Training - Attending society meetings - Attending fitness training

• Training publications• Postage and stationery costs• Flat rate allowance for “use of home”

for admin at £156 pa w.e.f 06.04.08 (this would probably only be applicable to those referees who are officiating at the higher levels of non-league football)

• Computer expenses and capital allowances for on-line filing of reports

• Anything else that is considered appropriate

Dear Friends,

I have addressed the above as such “Dear Friends”, as the week was not just about working hard on the course, but new friendships developed along the way.Yes the course was a success and it was done in such a professional way, the FA must be commended especially the Instructors with all of their knowledge and enthusiastic manner that they showed “out standing:!

There were also many friends made during the week and with such many exciting memories that will last a long time.With the World in such disarray at the moment we all shared a common goal, to work along side and live along side with each other with people from different races all working together as a “TEAM” as the motto say’s” One Game, One Community”, the week I will never forget.

John FolwellFA County Business Development Manager

INTERNATIONAL

inSTRUCTORS COURSeian blanchardFA Head of National Referee Development


RefeRee DevelOpmenT OffiCeRS

THE PErSONAL, HANDS ON APPrOACH by THE rDO iS CErTAiNLy ENTiCiNG AND ENCOUrAGiNG rEFErEES bACK iNTO THE GAME.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



So nearly a year has passed since the National Game released funding to support the employment of referee

Development Officers. i am pleased to announce that we now have 49 in place, most of whom are full-time, but some are part-time and in one case a rDO also carries out the role of a County Welfare Officer.

There is little doubt that the RDO, supported by the Referee Regional Manager, is important to achieving our goal of 8,000 new and active referees by 2012. A tall task, but one that is achievable.

ian blanchardFA Head of National Referee Development

I am already receiving some really positive news on new initiatives based on retention and recruitment that are having the desired effect in counties. The personal, hands-on approach by the RDO is certainly enticing and encouraging referees back into the game or stopping referees from leaving.

They have a clear focus to retain referees as well as to recruit new ones. There is much emphasis on the “Respect Programme”, which according the anecdotal information I have is having a positive effect on our game for

referees. The “Get into Refereeing” campaign has already enticed people to take up the whistle and the new “recruit a Friend” campaign should encourage existing referees to recruit a new referee and receive rewards for doing so.

It is early days but I do believe the future looks bright for refereeing in this country. It will need an awful lot of hard work but we will be successful.


Although many local referees’ societies have experienced difficulties in recruiting and retaining members, rAE

board member Colin Harris looks at three areas which show considerable increases in their membership figures. Hopefully, others can follow their examples and will soon be able to report an upturn in interest.

Lancashire County RA is showing an encouraging increase of over 10% in their total membership compared with last year. This can no doubt be partly attributed to the involvement of the RA in the very successful North-West Retention Event run by Lancashire FA RDO Dean Mohareb, a Level 2 referee, reported in the last edition of Refereeing. The County FA and County RA have an excellent relationship and both bodies work for the benefit of referees, whether they are on the local parks or higher up the refereeing ladder. The LRA has a Liaison Officer who sits on the LFA Referees Committee and the County FA invites the LRA to attend all meetings of referees.

Two societies, Blackburn (89) and Nelson & Colne (31) have been particularly successful, each more than doubling their membership in achieving the highest numbers for many years. Blackburn is now among the top five in England and the second largest Society in Lancashire County RA, hard on the heels of neighbours Preston.

Good relationshipsBlackburn Secretary Wright Shaw reports that thanks to the relationship with the County FA, they have also recruited a number of candidates from basic courses. FIFA and Select Group Assistant Referee Mo Matadar is a member of their executive and through him, they have an excellent link to provide young officials for the Blackburn Rovers Academy. Also, organisers of local tournaments are encouraged to invite only officials who are RAE members.

Nelson & Colne Secretary Roger King reports that much of their increase is a result of a course recently held at Pendle Forest and the support in recruitment from their local Sunday League.

Burton-on-Trent (Staffs) Society has seen their membership rise to 71, the highest for many years, with a 25% increase on last season. They are rightly very proud of this, much of this success is due to the hard work of the committee led by Chairman Roy Burton, now in his 14th season as a National List Assistant Referee.

Many newcomers are candidates from basic courses led by Roy Faunch, who have been able to take advantage of the RAE Centenary offer of a voucher towards supplies. Mindful of the importance of recruiting new referees straight from their basic course, the Committee changed their meeting night from Monday to Thursday to

(Photo shows from left: Karl Jeffries (Burton RA Secretary) – Best Burton Sunday League Referee, Roy Burton with the shield for most increased membership and Colin Blockley – Burton & District FA Best Referee.)

coincide with the courses which are held at the same venue, Washlands Social Club. Once the course night is finished, candidates are invited to stay and be part of the meeting to find out all about being a RAE member. Having become accustomed to that evening out they found it easier to continue attending after they had qualified.

Concentrate on refereeing matters Although Burton have recently had prominent speakers such as Ray Olivier and Paul Rejer, Secretary Karl Jeffries believes that guest speakers are not that important to the members. Having changed the format of meetings to reduce time spent on business matters, members attending are now able to concentrate on true refereeing matters, helping each other interactively.

Moving to the extreme South-West, although smaller and more rural in comparison, Falmouth & Helston with a membership of 36 are also able to boast their highest for many years, with an increase of more than 16% on last season.

Treasurer Steve Rose has led the recruitment drive by phoning round referees in the area, reminding them of the importance of being a member of the RAE, in particular of the insurance benefits.

Being somewhat remote, the Society is unable to attract many visitors, but the members are a strong unit, many travelling some distance to help each other though discussion at meetings, looking to National List Assistant Mark Philpott as a role model, especially for the newer and younger element. There are also a number of ex-Football League players living in the area with stories to tell.

Again, there is a good team of Officers at the helm including Secretary Bob Hartnell, Chairman Steve Lawrence, Vice-Chairman Gerald Munden and, now in his 45th season as an assessor, President Jim O’Brien.

INCREASING RA membeRSHipColin Harris

OrGANiSErS OF LOCAL TOUrNAMENTS ArE ENCOUrAGED TO iNViTE ONLy OFFiCiALS WHO ArE rAE MEMbErS.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



rEF FACTS

1978 Qualified as referee in 1978 after moving to Bristol.

1986 – 1989 Started refereeing on Bristol & District League, progressed to Western League and onto the Panel League line.

1990 Ran the line twice on Football Combination matches at Highbury, where as a boy Colin attended every home match with his father.

1991Started assessing .

1998 Became a Licensed Instructor and Gloucestershire FA County Training Officer.

2006 Became Gloucestershire FA Assessor Co-ordinator and spends most Saturdays assessing at Supply League level.

2007 Elected to the Board of the RAE.


During the Summer, rAE members Jim Haynes (Colchester), Keith barron, Andy Pilbrow and Dean Scott (all Chelmsford)

volunteered their services to officiate at the right To Play World Cup held at Stamford bridge, the home of Chelsea FC.

14 teams from across London came together for a day-long football tournament on the hallowed turf of one of the world’s leading football clubs. They played with passion, with skill (some of the time!), and they played in the knowledge that the money they paid to enter would make a meaningful difference to children from the most disadvantaged communities around the world, thanks to the work of Right To Play. Games started at 10 a.m with a 7-a-side format for the two groups of round robins, and 11-a-side for the semi-finals, plate final and grand final, finishing at 6.30p.m. The four officials were on duty throughout this time, and contributed to a highly successful day, in which a staggering £120,000 was raised for the Charity and its good works.

Right To Play is an athlete-driven international humanitarian organisation that uses sport and play as a tool for development of children and youth affected by poverty, war and disease in the most disadvantaged areas of the world. It is supported by an international team of Sportsmen and women such as Matthew Pinsent, Ian Thorpe, Haile Gebreselassie, Carolina Kluft and Martina Hingis who generously donate their time to support its programmes. Right To Play UK recently signed a six-year partnership with Chelsea FC, to contribute to its fundraising achievements, with Joe Cole, Michael Essien, Salomon Kalou and Frank Lampard as Ambassadors committed to supporting Right To Play programmes in the countries of implementation.

RigHT TO plAy

WHEN CHiLDrEN PLAy, THE WOrLD WiNS

Showing the red card to Ron “Chopper” Harris, who was host for the day, from the left Andy Pilbrow (Chelmsford), Keith Barron (Chelmsford), Jim Haynes (Colchester) and Dean Scott (Chelmsford)

DO yOU ReAlly knOw THe lAwS?

A defending player standing on the goal line between the goal posts deliberately punches the ball to prevent it from going into goal but only succeeds in punching the ball into the goal.

What action do you take?

qUESTiON 1

A defending player jumps towards an opponent who has the ball under control with both feet off the ground. The defender’s feet make contact with the shins of the opponent and clearly miss the ball.


qUESTiON 2

Two opposing players make a genuine effort to challenge for a ball and in doing so one catches his opponent on the head as he tries to head the ball.


qUESTiON 4

The ball is cleared up field by the goalkeeper following a corner kick. All the outfield players, except one attacker, run towards the centre circle but the remaining attacker punches the goalkeeper with a clenched fist in the face.


qUESTiON 3

Find the answers to these questions on the next page.

FOREWORD

FEATURE


FITNESS & TRAINING

REFEREES

REFEREES


FEATURE



Neale barryFA Head of Senior Referee Development


GET INTO REFEREEING AD

Answers to Do you really Know The Laws questions on page 49

Answer 1Allow the goal and caution the player for unsporting behaviour. Although the offending player tried to deny a goal, he was unsuccessful so a caution is the appropriate sanction.

Answer 2As the ball is in play and this challenge is made with excessive force, you will send off the offender for serious foul play.

Answer 3Although the ball was in play when the offence occurred, it was well away from the action, so the offender must be sent off for violent conduct and the game restarted with a direct free kick from where the offence occurred.

Answer 4As there is contact, you must award a direct free kick to the team of the player who tried to head the ball and take no further action as his action was clearly only careless and not reckless or with excessive force.

50

FA LearningThe Football Association25 Soho SquareLondonW1D 4FA

T: +44 (0)20 7745 4545F: +44 (0)20 7745 4546E: [email protected]

TheFA.com/FALearning FA Learning Hotline: 0870 8500424

The Referees’ Association1 Westhill RoadCoundonCoventryCV6 2AD

T: +44 (0)2476 601 701F: +44 (0)2476 601 556E: [email protected]

www.footballreferee.org

xx

xx

/xx


refereeing magazine - vol 08 - jan 09

Documents

referees ian blanchard

football association

young referees conference

fa recruitment

fa crest

fa kelly simmons

punishment david elleray

yellow card offences