Question Number: 14099

Pre-Game 10/11/2006

RE: rec Other

Jason of Edmond, Ok USA asks...

Do you have any inspiring, encouraging, or uplifting words you say to the AR's during the pregame?

For example, I was an AR on a game with a wonderful referee for a game with 30 minute halves. After the captains were sent away from the coin toss, he smiled and looked at both of us shook each of our hands and said, "Do good. See you in 30."

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Probably nothing inspiring or uplifting. I spend at least 5 minutes with new ARs doing a pregame where I try to outline everything I expect and what to do in certain circumstances. I designate their authority to check in players arriving late and to inspect any player I have asked to leave the field for equipment change before coming back on the field. I try to go over everything I think may happen during a game. With referees Ive worked with for years, no pregame. When I work as an AR I expect the center to go over things with me and will ask a few questions if the center is not going to conduct a pregame. If a center does as the one you cite, just stick to everything outlined in procedures. Unfortunately, when a referee does not conduct a pregame with his ARs, all hell usually breaks loose.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

I hold my index finger over my badge and say this is a caution, two fingers covering the badge is a sending-off -- one we can talk about and the middle finger over the badge is the signal for a sending-off and all I need to know is a color and number. They smile broadly and we shake hands.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

I always say "let's have fun". I always tell them to smile. Also, talk about their duties and my expectations.