Week 12

For the next 12 weeks, The End Zone will be advice from the "Next Level" series in Referee Magazine.  I hope you all take advantage.  There is some great advice here.  This is a great way to enhance your off-season training.  Whether you're a grizzled veteran or a just getting started, this is information we can all use.  Enjoy! ​

WEEK 12: MISCELLANEOUS

1. Have a short memory.
It’s important to have a short memory when it comes to a missed call. An official who stews over a missed call on one play loses focus and is more likely to miss several subsequent calls.

2. Don’t take comments to heart.
There will be times when coaches or others will approach you to tell you what a good job you did. Take those kudos with a grain of salt. If you believe them when they say you’re great, you have to believe them when they say you stink. Ask crewmates for input on your performance. Fellow officials know the rules and mechanics better than non-officials and are more likely to give you an honest and accurate appraisal.

3. Use cross-field mechanics when appropriate.
The official on the side of the field on which a play ends may have players blocking his view. The official on the opposite side is likely to have a good open look and can help with the spot. When blocked out on the sideline, look across the field to see where your counterpart has marked the spot. Then go to it like you knew it all along.

4. Always count the players.
Make eye contact with other officials who count the same team. If you have 11, extend your fist in front of you. If you count less than 11, place your palms on your chest and splay your fingers. If you count more than 11, place two fingers of each hand on your chest. If the official you’re looking at gives a different signal, you should both quickly recount until you agree. If you don’t complete your count before the ball is snapped, officiate the play. As soon as it’s over, quickly count the team in question. If the count reveals there are more than 11, throw your flag. That’s illegal participation. When the ball is dead, pay attention to substitutions. If your team doesn’t substitute, guess what? You’ve still got 11. But you still need to signal to your crewmate.
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