This article was featured in a past edition of "the Goal", official publication of the Florida State Referees Association.

 Referees are expected to give correct decisions at all times. Attitudes in the present environment ensure that one mistake is not acceptable. The old saying that " Presence lends conviction" still applies to positioning and movement in dynamic play, perhaps even more so now in view of the speed, new tactics, power and aggressive moves to win the ball (cheating by diving is one of the methods).

The main principles of ideal positioning and movement are:

1.  Be in the right place at the right time.

2.  Avoid interfering with play.

3.  Keep the ball between the Referee and his Assistant in the attacking zone.

General Bouzo says that good positioning requires good ability to read the game. The ability to read the game is affected by the Referee's knowledge of the game, the tactics of the teams, experience, fitness and psychology.

Good positioning leads to:

1.  Recognizing infringements and taking correct actions.

2.  Calling the game with little interference.

3.  Applying the advantage effectively.

4.  Protecting players, especially the skillful ones.

5.  Stopping bad habits of cheating.

6.  Observing the spirit of the laws.

Quickness off the mark will impress players more than most things you do. For example, movement should be developed to provide a wide path to avoid getting mixed up in the play, watching the area where the ball is likely to land and NOT the flight of the ball.

Give your decisions (whistle and arms) and move into position thus avoiding unwanted comments and making sure you are in position for the recommencement of the game.

Try to pace yourself. You may need more than 90 minutes if overtime is required.

A good habit to adopt is to look at your Assistant Referee when the ball is played forward. Another good habit is to look instinctively at both your Assistant Referees , plus peruse the bench area.

Decide when you need to cover the goal line on a corner kick or free kick. However, avoid going too deep in the penalty area.

Walk to trouble spots if it offers you more thinking time. It allows you a better chance to think about the level of discipline you are going to administer. Of course, there are times when you must get there on the dead run.

The Assistant Referee  must follow the game at the level of the second-last defender. Relax and have 100% concentration (20% on the second-last defender and 80% on the play of the attackers). The Assistant must never lose this concentration.

[ BACK ]