Question Number: 12088

Character, Attitude and Control 1/23/2006

RE: Recreation Adult

Stanley of Burnaby, BC Canada asks...

One of our team officials was asked by the Ref to leave the side line team box because of foul languages questioning a Ref's decision. He left the pitch and sat in the spectator's stand where he continued to swear at the Ref. The Ref then asked him to leave the spectator stand or otherwise he would not continue to officiate the game. The guy refused to leave and the Ref called off the game.

Did the Ref make a correct decision?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Yes the REF did eventually.. In point of fact ANY technical area staff summarily dismissed MUST leave the area COMPLETELY!!! He should not even get an opportunity to sit in the stands period!! While my disgust for the incident is likely self evident I can only hope the rest of that team 's coaching staff learned an important lesson. I coach, ref, play, manage, and watch as a parent and fan! If those in attendance did nothing to encourage this idiot to leave then they ALL failed in their duty to the game and each other and ESPECIALLY the kids!!!!!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Absolutely but he made it late. When he first dismissed the official, he should have made him leave the vicinity of the field. This includes the spectator seats. This type of behavior simply cannot be tolerated. I echo Ref Dawson's disgust with your team official.