1. Be fit.
Although the indoor game is played in a smaller area, it is played at a much faster pace. One official is fixed in
position, so the referee has to go end to end for the entire game.
2. Know the Rules thoroughly.
Especially the time penalties. Being quick to make decisions as a referee or assistant means that everyone can
get on with the game. Not knowing time penalties can cause tremendous problems for assistant referees in
competitive games.
3. Remain vigilant.
Even the calmest of games can quickly get out of hand over an incident if not quickly and firmly handled.
Be especially aware that games tend to become more competitive in the second period, especially if the score
is close. Also, games tend to be more challenging later in the season as championships, relegation and playoffs
get closer.
4. Acknowledge every incident.
You don't have to stop play for everything, but if you let the players know that you've seen an incident, then the
players are less likely to look for opportunities to retaliate. This goes hand-in-hand with fitness.
Staying close to play at all times helps you communicate to players that you did see the incident.
5. Stay calm.
Although the pace of the game is up, and the adrenaline is pumping, the calmer you stay, the calmer the
players and coaches will stay too.
6. Be early.
Players can't walk on to the field and expect to perform well. Neither can officials. In particular, take the time to
talk about how the assistant referee can best support the referee.
7. Ignore the crowd.
Spectators are a fact of life. But they are closer and louder in the indoor arena. While they may have a clearer
viewof play indoors, that doesn't mean that they understand the game or that they are right! Remember, most
spectators are biased to one team, or very likely they wouldn't be there.
8. Respect the competitors.
Players and coaches have every right to expect your best performance. Don't try to dictate to them, or to assert
your superiority. Acknowledge that they are sometimes right, and they are always entitled to their opinion.
You can agree to disagree.
9. Be honest.
In a similar vein, we all make mistakes at times. The point about making mistakes is to take the trouble to find
out what was wrong, or why, and make sure it doesn't happen twice. Don't cover up a mistake with a
phony explanation.
10. Practice preventative refereeing.
Fitness, positioning and experience in anticipating play combine to give the indoor referee the opportunity to
prevent some offences. In other cases preventative refereeing allows a referee to react quickly to an offence
to prevent the situation from getting worse. Preventative refereeing is the hallmark of top indoor officials.
This article was written by Doug Bewick, Honorary National Referee, who is a past mentor in the EDSRA Mentor Program
Sponsor:
EDSRA welcomes comments or suggestions. Email: EDSRA President
© Edmonton & District Soccer Referees
Association, 2008
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