Question Number: 27691

Law 5 - The Referee 8/26/2013

RE: Rec College

Andrew Hoffer of New Brunswick, New Jersey United States asks...

How do I teach referees to call the advantage rule in a clinic? If I were to have groups of players come to a station to teach them to call the advantage rule, after they have been schooled about it in the classroom, then what would be the best procedure on that? I also need help with this on Mechanics, Whistles, Signals, Fouls, Cards, Misconduct, Throw in's, Corner kicks, and Free kicks.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Advantage is an important part of the referee's arsenal. But, the correct way to use it requires skill and experience.

The referee needs to think: is it better for the players and better for the game if I don't stop play. Usually, after waiting a second or two, the best answer will reveal itself. Too often, however, the referee is not in a good position (behind the ball) to see the advantage.

When allowing the advantage, the verbal announcement is very important to the player on the field and her teammates. Shouting 'Play on' or 'Advantage' says, 'I saw that foul, but keep playing.' The nonverbal signal (sweeping arms up to shoulder height) is for the other players - it provides the same information.

Advantage should not be used:
(a) where the players don't have the skill to take advantage of it;
(b) where the misconduct requires a red card for violence (it is too dangerous to let that player remain on the field);
(c) where the only 'advantage' is possession of the ball. The referee should look for a real possibility of an advantageous attack;
or (d) where the temperament of the match is such that letting play continue will risk match control.

Advantage can be used for any infringement of the laws while the ball is in play. It is not used when the infringement occurred before the restart of play (such as an improper throw-in, free kick; goal kick; corner kick). Note: an infringement that occurs when the ball is out of play might still be ignored by the referee as something that is doubtful or trifling - but that is not advantage.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Andrew
My experience is that most new referees are afraid of the use of the signal and shout. Referee Wickham has given the detail and the referees would benefit from being in a soccer setting and getting comfortable with the arms motion and the shout.
I would also say that the same applies to other parts of the game. The clinic tries to do too much, too soon as it is the easiest cost effective way. New referees would benefit from the theory being explained in a match setting and also immediate feedback after a game. That "on the job learning" takes time to achieve.