Question Number: 24848

Law 5 - The Referee 4/22/2011

RE: Select Under 19

Todd of Houston, TX USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 24839

So what is a good signal to use to 'wave down' an AR's flag, one that would not be seen by spectators and players? Why wouldn't it be better if it were clear to them?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Todd
The acknowledged signal is to make eye contact with the AR and a single wave down if it is erroneous. If it is a correct flag and the referee wants play to continue then the referee signals advantage. The AR will be aware that when advantage is signalled he will drop the flag and move to his next position.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Eye contact, followed by slight wave of the hand. Good eye contact permits the arm to be at waist level when the wave occurs.

Players know to play to the whistle, not the flag. But, you are correct that there are times when a public acknowledgement by the referee is helpful to the players and to the assistant.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

The players and spectators are watching the AR's flag and not the referee. That's why any signal you choose to give may not be seen.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Sometimes, eye contact then a slight negative shake of the head is enough. I would stress asking these questions in the pregame and making the signals then, so that they are easy to interpret in the fast games we have today.

Sometimes, it is good to make a thumbs up to the AR, then wave them down. This says 'Great work! But, I had a better view...thanks anyway.' But that shouldn't have to happen more than once or twice in a game, or your credibility and that of the AR will be damaged.