Category archives for: Training

Refs Are Gunning for Tall Guys

Refs Are Gunning for Tall Guys

Scientists assert tall people get the short end of the stick in situations when a referee calls a foul.

FIFA AAR Program

FIFA AAR Program

September 17th marked the launch of the Additional Assistant Referee (AAR) in professional soccer.

Stopping Play for Head Injuries

Stopping Play for Head Injuries

New guidance emphasizes the importance of responding to serious player injuries.

Tactical and Red Card Tackles

Tactical and Red Card Tackles

Tactical fouls often go unpunished as officials do not recognize the tactical implication and attacking advantage.

Assistant Referee Involvement

Assistant Referee Involvement

Referees must establish parameters for involvement during the pregame discussion. Assistant Referees (ARs) must feel empowered to participate in game critical decisions when they are 100% certain. They must also have guidelines which enable their involvement to be supportive rather than appear in conflict with the tenor of the match set by the referee.

Keys to Identifying Handling the Ball

Keys to Identifying Handling the Ball

There are several key criteria referees should use to determine whether contact between a player’s hand/arm and the ball constitutes a foul for handling. Many of the criteria have formed the foundation of referee identification of handling offenses for years. Despite this foundation, handling criteria continue to be applied inconsistently.