Ask the Ref: Player Management

In a perfect world, situations with a verbally abusive or physically dangerous athlete would end up with the Referee changing the athlete’s world view, they would become fast friends and then go on to found a children’s foundation that did wonderful things.

That’s not the world we ref in…

As our seasons kick into high gear it’s a good time to review some of the steps that Referees can take to keep potentially volatile situations under control--before they escalate.

1. Make a clear pre-game statement. This is a good idea regardless of the teams history, but is absolutely necessary if the team or players have a volatile history. Bring the captains of the teams to midfield pre-game and make it clear that you will not tolerate unfair play or improper behavior. Tell the captains to spread the word to their teammates.
2. Your tone and language need to be appropriate to the age level you are dealing with.
3. Your body language and eye contact needs to convey confidence and control. Be especially aware of your posture, the angle of your head and work on looking the players in the eyes when you are speaking to them.
4. The moment a violation occurs, even if a bit trifling, blow a firm whistle and make a confident call. You can’t be lenient early in the game and then call the game tight. But you can call the game tight early,, and loosen up as the game progresses.
5. You don’t always need to throw a card to diffuse a problem. You will earn a lot of respect if you can handle players without sitting them out. If you notice anything suspect, whether it be behind the play or in the flow of the game, don’t be afraid to run up alongside the player and tell them you are aware of what occurred.
6. Tell the coach as you pass by a problem player’s bench. Make the coach aware that the player is “on the edge.”
7. If a player needs to be cautioned, show the card with no emotion and without discourse. It’s not about you--It’s about their behavior.

Control the game, without emotion, and you’ll find that the player’s don’t control you.

NOTE: For more referee articles like this one, visit "Members-Only," and visit USIndoor Referee Certification.