Question Number: 26625

Character, Attitude and Control 8/12/2012

RE: Competitive Adult

Harris of Somewhere, Someplace Canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 26599

As you mentioned, I typically work with players in normal tones rather than or berating simply because all the players are older than me. I'm only 20 and players in the league are at least 27+ so I have trouble simply gaining their respect on my own.

I find that warning them and telling them that it is unacceptable works when I speak to an individual player but when it comes to two players, I feel there is too much bad blood between the two for me to say that what they are doing is unacceptable and intolerable and for them to take what I said and calm down. Both players end up leaving the conversation still annoyed and simply with less respect.

Anything you recommend?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Harris
Its fine if both players leave the conversation still annoyed and not respectful. That's their choice. The important part is that they are now on notice that further misbehaviour will result in further sanction.
Yes as referees we would all like to see a change of behaviour as a result of our intervention but when that fails then the ultimate sanction is the dismissal and red card.
Personally I remind player why we are all here which is to play a game and as players that it is now up to them as to what they want to do. I certainly leave players knowing that I will take action should their unacceptable behaviour continue. Sometimes we have to be forceful to get that message across and to show the players that the warning should be heeded.