Responsibilities of a Assistant Referee:
To enable referees to give full and comprehensive match instructions, they must be able to place themselves in the role of the assistant referee. Instructions must be clearly understood by the assistant referee.
Referees should be aware that the duties of assistant referees change and that current Law, interpretation and operating techniques are continually developing.
Referees should endeavour to obtain a balance of appointments as a referee and as an assistant in their formative years, in order to develop necessary skills in both capacities.
• Attitude
At all times when acting as an assistant referee, it is essential that the role be approached with a positive frame of mind. Such an attitude, prior to the game, will give the match referee confidence in your ability to assist him to successfully control the game.
• Approaches to the game
Having received an appointment to officiate as an assistant referee and acknowledged the appointment to both competition and club, time may elapse before the game. You may have another match before the appointment just
received. Concentration on the next match is very important. Do not allow yourself to become distracted by what may be an important future appointment as an assistant referee.
Should there be a time lapse before your game, be aware that one or both clubs may also be involved in a more senior competition (i.e. cup competition), and your game may not be played until a later date.
You may feel it appropriate at this time to reflect on previous experiences or games in which you have been involved, with the same colleagues.
If you find that you are appointed to two games in quick succession, please remember that each game is of equal importance and that a game acting as assistant referee requires both physical fitness and mental alertness. However, should you be unfortunate and suffer a physical injury, it is always important to advise the competition at the earliest opportunity. It demonstrates your professional approach and gives the competition an opportunity to reappoint. Anyone less than 100% fit is being unfair to colleagues, the competition and himself.
There may be occasions when you are called upon at short notice to replace an injured colleague. Your kit must always be in a state of readiness to allow you to undertake such appointments. If you have pre-packed, a final
check of the contents before departure is essential. You should always carry a set of clean flags for use during the
game.
In order to make a good impression when you arrive at the ground it is important that you wear suitable smart
clothing.
The further you are travelling for your match the more likely you are to encounter weather or travel problems. There are numerous sources of information available to you via local press and traffic reports on the radio and on certain websites. Advance planning will help you to arrive in good time with your mind set on the game. Try not to give yourself the worry of being late.
A point for consideration is that you may not be travelling from home, but perhaps from work and travel plans should bear this in mind. Any additional time you may need should be agreed in good time with work managers etc.
Some competitions specify joint travel arrangements for match officials and, therefore, these arrangements must be agreed in good time and backup arrangements made in case one or more officials fail to meet at the rendezvous.
You may find that competitions prescribe the minimum time that officials should report to the ground on match days so it is essential that you check the relevant Competition Rules. If no prescribed time exists in the Competition Rules, you should arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the advertised kick-off time.
On arrival at the ground, contact should be made with a representative of the home club, to announce your arrival.
Your next responsibility is to report to the referee whom you may find, on most occasions, will have arrived already as per Competition Rules.
Regardless of seniority or experience, you must always accept the relative roles of your colleagues on the day. Each has a specific role to play, the referee to lead the team, and the senior assistant referee to be aware of his additional responsibilities should the referee become incapacitated.
Assisting the referee starts early. Help to create a harmonious atmosphere and show a positive attitude to your
position.
Respond to the attitude and atmosphere set by the referee in the dressing room.
• Understanding pre-match instructions
At a suitable opportunity prior to the game the referee will issue you with his pre-match instructions. This may take place either on the field of play or in the dressing room, depending on the referee's preference. It is essential that you give the referee your undivided attention and concentration. Always seek clarification of his requirements if in doubt. Do not assume anything.
It is most likely that the flow of pre-match instructions will be broken by interruptions, so it is important that your train of thought is maintained.
Be mindful that instructions given by one referee may differ from those given by another. Your own pre-match instructions may also differ from those you receive. However, it is essential that you concentrate on implementing
the instructions given by the referee of the day.
Although both assistant referees have received the same match instructions, your personal responsibility might differ under certain circumstances (e.g. control of the technical areas, supervising substitutions). Clarification should be sought from the referee if this is not covered in pre-match instructions.
If the result of the game is determined by kicks from the penalty mark, you should ensure that you clearly understand what the referee requires you to do should the situation arise.
On the Field of Play
• Entering and leaving the field of play
When the match officials enter the field of play for the first time, players will form an impression of how they intend to approach the game. Ensure that the players are given a positive impression of your commitment. A clear indication of sound teamwork is shown when the match officials enter and leave the field of play together at both half-time and the conclusion of the game.
Entry onto the field of play should be in accordance with the referee's instructions and always in a dignified manner. The referee will usually require you to inspect the nets, be present to witness the pre-match ceremony and then to make your way quickly to your assigned patrol path.
It is especially important that assistant referees make their way to the referee at half-time and at the end of the game. It may assist the referee if more than one match official hears and records any comments that may be made by players at half-time or the conclusion of the game, or by members of the management team at the touchline.
Always refrain from passing comment on any aspect of the game, solicited or otherwise, until you have taken the opportunity to consult with the referee in the privacy of the match officials' dressing room.
• Carry out pre-match instructions
Always remember that it is the referee who is the leader of the team on the day. It is your responsibility to respect his wishes and to carry out his instructions to the best of your ability.
• Duties of an Assistant Referee
There are specific duties laid down in Law 6, to be carried out at all times. The referee may place greater emphasis on certain aspects in order to assist him to effectively control the match in accordance with the Laws of Association Football.
• Matchplay
From the moment the referee blows his whistle at the start of the match, it is essential that you maintain concentration at all times. You should always be aware of the position of the referee on the field of play so that you are able to make eye contact with him when necessary. When you need to, advise the referee of any infringement in Law. Understand that acknowledgement may take the form of either a whistle or a gesture of acceptance (or otherwise) by the referee.
There may be occasions when the referee does not immediately note your signal. In these circumstances one of two courses of action must be followed. If play develops in favour of the offending team you must maintain your signal. If, however, developments in play favour the team offended against, lower the flag as soon as this has happened and quickly regain your appropriate position.
It is important to understand that an assistant referee should reflect a profile similar to that of the referee. Try to adopt a low-key approach initially, but never miss the opportunity to be assertive when necessary. It is possible to be assertive without being aggressive, confrontational or provocative towards a player or club official.
There may be times when, because of your designated patrol path, you cannot move away from the source of confrontation. In these situations you may need to seek the assistance of the referee. However, there will usually be
many opportunities to deal with a challenge to your authority without reference to the referee. Possible responses will range from totally ignoring a remark, through quiet but firm approaches, to a warning that you will be left with no
alternative but to involve the referee. You should never make a comment that may commit the referee to a particular course of action because this may put him in an invidious position and cause unnecessary embarrassment.
There may be times when spectators make unwelcome comments. You should avoid even acknowledging that you have heard such comments, as this will probably provoke further comments, perhaps breaking your concentration.
Undivided attention on what is going on in front of you is far more important than any unsolicited comments from behind you.
There may be times in the game when the action will remain in the other half of the field of play. At these times your concentration must be at its most intense. Therefore, you should be not only observing the action, but also scanning that part of the field of play for which you have a responsibility.
At all times it is important to ASSIST not INSIST
Off the Field of Play after the match
In normal circumstances at the final whistle you should make your way swiftly to the referee, so that all three match officials leave the field of play together. There may be instances when remarks directed at one or more of the match officials may lead to a misconduct report. Under no circumstances should you make remarks or responses to comments from players, club officials and spectators nor should you attempt to discuss any aspect of the game with the referee until you have reached the security of the dressing room.
Once in the dressing room you may be invited by the referee to comment on his performance. He may also wish to discuss match incidents at an early stage. Contribute comments that are positive, constructive, and always honest. Carefully select the phrases that you use. Seek guidance from the referee concerning aspects of your performance. Accept this in the spirit it is given.
You may feel it inappropriate to discuss match incidents immediately after the game, even when invited to do so by the referee. If at a later stage you wish to clarify these incidents, you should be honest and discuss them with the referee first, and not with other colleagues until after you have spoken to him.
Remember that the referee on the day should be the only person to issue an invitation for anyone to enter the dressing room.
You may find, at some matches, that the match assessor makes contact with the referee to discuss the game and to offer advice to all match officials. If he seeks clarification from you, give it clearly and concisely.
Occasionally, club officials may enter the dressing room at the invitation of the referee. Allow the referee to deal with these visitors and contribute to the discussion only when invited to do so by the referee.
It is the usual practice for a home club official to pay your fees and expenses in the dressing room. Again the referee should handle this visitor. You will be given the opportunity to confirm that the payment is accurate.
Where appropriate, the referee may require your assistance to confirm details of misconduct and substitutions etc..
Be aware of any Competition Regulations regarding the accepting of hospitality after a match. Should hospitality be extended to you, be aware of the consequences of mixing with players and club officials after the game, as
your presence may create a difficult situation for you to control. You may feel it more appropriate to leave the ground immediately after showering and dressing.
All match officials should leave the vicinity of the ground simultaneously. Do not delay your departure from the car park.
Referees should be aware that the duties of assistant referees change and that current Law, interpretation and operating techniques are continually developing.
Referees should endeavour to obtain a balance of appointments as a referee and as an assistant in their formative years, in order to develop necessary skills in both capacities.
• Attitude
At all times when acting as an assistant referee, it is essential that the role be approached with a positive frame of mind. Such an attitude, prior to the game, will give the match referee confidence in your ability to assist him to successfully control the game.
• Approaches to the game
Having received an appointment to officiate as an assistant referee and acknowledged the appointment to both competition and club, time may elapse before the game. You may have another match before the appointment just
received. Concentration on the next match is very important. Do not allow yourself to become distracted by what may be an important future appointment as an assistant referee.
Should there be a time lapse before your game, be aware that one or both clubs may also be involved in a more senior competition (i.e. cup competition), and your game may not be played until a later date.
You may feel it appropriate at this time to reflect on previous experiences or games in which you have been involved, with the same colleagues.
If you find that you are appointed to two games in quick succession, please remember that each game is of equal importance and that a game acting as assistant referee requires both physical fitness and mental alertness. However, should you be unfortunate and suffer a physical injury, it is always important to advise the competition at the earliest opportunity. It demonstrates your professional approach and gives the competition an opportunity to reappoint. Anyone less than 100% fit is being unfair to colleagues, the competition and himself.
There may be occasions when you are called upon at short notice to replace an injured colleague. Your kit must always be in a state of readiness to allow you to undertake such appointments. If you have pre-packed, a final
check of the contents before departure is essential. You should always carry a set of clean flags for use during the
game.
In order to make a good impression when you arrive at the ground it is important that you wear suitable smart
clothing.
The further you are travelling for your match the more likely you are to encounter weather or travel problems. There are numerous sources of information available to you via local press and traffic reports on the radio and on certain websites. Advance planning will help you to arrive in good time with your mind set on the game. Try not to give yourself the worry of being late.
A point for consideration is that you may not be travelling from home, but perhaps from work and travel plans should bear this in mind. Any additional time you may need should be agreed in good time with work managers etc.
Some competitions specify joint travel arrangements for match officials and, therefore, these arrangements must be agreed in good time and backup arrangements made in case one or more officials fail to meet at the rendezvous.
You may find that competitions prescribe the minimum time that officials should report to the ground on match days so it is essential that you check the relevant Competition Rules. If no prescribed time exists in the Competition Rules, you should arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the advertised kick-off time.
On arrival at the ground, contact should be made with a representative of the home club, to announce your arrival.
Your next responsibility is to report to the referee whom you may find, on most occasions, will have arrived already as per Competition Rules.
Regardless of seniority or experience, you must always accept the relative roles of your colleagues on the day. Each has a specific role to play, the referee to lead the team, and the senior assistant referee to be aware of his additional responsibilities should the referee become incapacitated.
Assisting the referee starts early. Help to create a harmonious atmosphere and show a positive attitude to your
position.
Respond to the attitude and atmosphere set by the referee in the dressing room.
• Understanding pre-match instructions
At a suitable opportunity prior to the game the referee will issue you with his pre-match instructions. This may take place either on the field of play or in the dressing room, depending on the referee's preference. It is essential that you give the referee your undivided attention and concentration. Always seek clarification of his requirements if in doubt. Do not assume anything.
It is most likely that the flow of pre-match instructions will be broken by interruptions, so it is important that your train of thought is maintained.
Be mindful that instructions given by one referee may differ from those given by another. Your own pre-match instructions may also differ from those you receive. However, it is essential that you concentrate on implementing
the instructions given by the referee of the day.
Although both assistant referees have received the same match instructions, your personal responsibility might differ under certain circumstances (e.g. control of the technical areas, supervising substitutions). Clarification should be sought from the referee if this is not covered in pre-match instructions.
If the result of the game is determined by kicks from the penalty mark, you should ensure that you clearly understand what the referee requires you to do should the situation arise.
On the Field of Play
• Entering and leaving the field of play
When the match officials enter the field of play for the first time, players will form an impression of how they intend to approach the game. Ensure that the players are given a positive impression of your commitment. A clear indication of sound teamwork is shown when the match officials enter and leave the field of play together at both half-time and the conclusion of the game.
Entry onto the field of play should be in accordance with the referee's instructions and always in a dignified manner. The referee will usually require you to inspect the nets, be present to witness the pre-match ceremony and then to make your way quickly to your assigned patrol path.
It is especially important that assistant referees make their way to the referee at half-time and at the end of the game. It may assist the referee if more than one match official hears and records any comments that may be made by players at half-time or the conclusion of the game, or by members of the management team at the touchline.
Always refrain from passing comment on any aspect of the game, solicited or otherwise, until you have taken the opportunity to consult with the referee in the privacy of the match officials' dressing room.
• Carry out pre-match instructions
Always remember that it is the referee who is the leader of the team on the day. It is your responsibility to respect his wishes and to carry out his instructions to the best of your ability.
• Duties of an Assistant Referee
There are specific duties laid down in Law 6, to be carried out at all times. The referee may place greater emphasis on certain aspects in order to assist him to effectively control the match in accordance with the Laws of Association Football.
• Matchplay
From the moment the referee blows his whistle at the start of the match, it is essential that you maintain concentration at all times. You should always be aware of the position of the referee on the field of play so that you are able to make eye contact with him when necessary. When you need to, advise the referee of any infringement in Law. Understand that acknowledgement may take the form of either a whistle or a gesture of acceptance (or otherwise) by the referee.
There may be occasions when the referee does not immediately note your signal. In these circumstances one of two courses of action must be followed. If play develops in favour of the offending team you must maintain your signal. If, however, developments in play favour the team offended against, lower the flag as soon as this has happened and quickly regain your appropriate position.
It is important to understand that an assistant referee should reflect a profile similar to that of the referee. Try to adopt a low-key approach initially, but never miss the opportunity to be assertive when necessary. It is possible to be assertive without being aggressive, confrontational or provocative towards a player or club official.
There may be times when, because of your designated patrol path, you cannot move away from the source of confrontation. In these situations you may need to seek the assistance of the referee. However, there will usually be
many opportunities to deal with a challenge to your authority without reference to the referee. Possible responses will range from totally ignoring a remark, through quiet but firm approaches, to a warning that you will be left with no
alternative but to involve the referee. You should never make a comment that may commit the referee to a particular course of action because this may put him in an invidious position and cause unnecessary embarrassment.
There may be times when spectators make unwelcome comments. You should avoid even acknowledging that you have heard such comments, as this will probably provoke further comments, perhaps breaking your concentration.
Undivided attention on what is going on in front of you is far more important than any unsolicited comments from behind you.
There may be times in the game when the action will remain in the other half of the field of play. At these times your concentration must be at its most intense. Therefore, you should be not only observing the action, but also scanning that part of the field of play for which you have a responsibility.
At all times it is important to ASSIST not INSIST
Off the Field of Play after the match
In normal circumstances at the final whistle you should make your way swiftly to the referee, so that all three match officials leave the field of play together. There may be instances when remarks directed at one or more of the match officials may lead to a misconduct report. Under no circumstances should you make remarks or responses to comments from players, club officials and spectators nor should you attempt to discuss any aspect of the game with the referee until you have reached the security of the dressing room.
Once in the dressing room you may be invited by the referee to comment on his performance. He may also wish to discuss match incidents at an early stage. Contribute comments that are positive, constructive, and always honest. Carefully select the phrases that you use. Seek guidance from the referee concerning aspects of your performance. Accept this in the spirit it is given.
You may feel it inappropriate to discuss match incidents immediately after the game, even when invited to do so by the referee. If at a later stage you wish to clarify these incidents, you should be honest and discuss them with the referee first, and not with other colleagues until after you have spoken to him.
Remember that the referee on the day should be the only person to issue an invitation for anyone to enter the dressing room.
You may find, at some matches, that the match assessor makes contact with the referee to discuss the game and to offer advice to all match officials. If he seeks clarification from you, give it clearly and concisely.
Occasionally, club officials may enter the dressing room at the invitation of the referee. Allow the referee to deal with these visitors and contribute to the discussion only when invited to do so by the referee.
It is the usual practice for a home club official to pay your fees and expenses in the dressing room. Again the referee should handle this visitor. You will be given the opportunity to confirm that the payment is accurate.
Where appropriate, the referee may require your assistance to confirm details of misconduct and substitutions etc..
Be aware of any Competition Regulations regarding the accepting of hospitality after a match. Should hospitality be extended to you, be aware of the consequences of mixing with players and club officials after the game, as
your presence may create a difficult situation for you to control. You may feel it more appropriate to leave the ground immediately after showering and dressing.
All match officials should leave the vicinity of the ground simultaneously. Do not delay your departure from the car park.