VOLLEYBALL

THE FOUR C’s OF PROFESSIONALISM

Take Your Refereeing to New Heights

Being professional at all times during the match is critical — and mastery of the rules is

the first step in demonstrating your professionalism. Duane Sanchez, Kenmore, Wash.

By Tonya Houston

Over time, the meaning of professionalism has become more subjective. Arguably, a term once uniformly recognized by metrics of appearance (standard of grooming and attire for the job), competence (knowledge and skills of the job), behavior (words, attitudes and interactions), and communication (display of kindness and respect), are now sometimes more challenging to identify.

Professionalism is a powerful quality — it is a standard, one that is essential for officials. In fact, professionalism is a tool — a vital tool, much like our rulebook, official’s bag and flags. Similar to never showing up to a match without our official’s bag, we should never show up to a match without professionalism.

Can you think of a time you were a spectator at a youth sporting event and after only a few minutes of play you thought, the official “seems shaky,” or “is unqualified,” or “is only here to collect a paycheck”? Sadly, many have answered at least one, if not all of, those assertions with “Yes.” Applying the four C’s of professionalism addressed in this article will help improve the professionalism of volleyball officials.

Competent — Knowledge of Rules and Proper Mechanics

Referees who practice professionalism are marked by their knowledge of the rules, rule changes and use of proper mechanics. Regardless of how many years of experience, depth of knowledge is continuous. Review the rulebook every season. It is essential officials

demonstrate both knowledge of rules and the application of proper mechanics. When combined, respect and consideration from coaches, players and fans are natural byproducts.

Choose one or two rules as professional points of emphasis for the season. For example, by rule, you are knowledgeable of what a back-row attack means. However, regarding the application of the rule, as a professional who’s always striving for improvement, you know you do not pay close attention to where the player is in proximity to the attack line when the ball is attacked by a back-row player. For this season, you set a goal to make this rule a point of emphasis. Watch a set of a match you are not officiating to train your eye to recognize the position of the feet of the back-row player prior to contact of the ball so that when you are on a match, it becomes instinctual.

Whether you have officiated for two years or 15 years, officials should be students of the game, thereby continuously setting goals to expand the depth and scope of professional knowledge and skill.

Consistent — To Thine Own Self Be True!

Yes, this classic Shakespearian quote from Hamlet also applies to referees. Be yourself, officiate the match within your scope and depth of knowledge and understanding. In many ways, a good official can assess the level of skill in conjunction with the level of competition during warmups. Use your knowledge and awareness of self to establish and maintain a consistent rhythm of officiating.

Ballhandling is a judgment call. Make the same judgment call consistent on both sides of the net. Ask veteran officials for help on how to become more consistent when applying judgment decisions. Watch matches and “call the game” from your seat. Can you keep the same ballhandling in the first set as in the third set? If you are watching the match on television, feel free to mark each ballhandling call and play them all in a row. Are they all the same line of doubles or are they inconsistent throughout the match?

Consistency is difficult, but a referee who is striving for professionalism will work hard on being consistent.

Confident — Know What You Know

Confidence is a hallmark of professionalism. However, do not mistake confidence with arrogance. While confidence fosters trust and mutual respect among officials, players and coaches, arrogance may dismantle mutual trust and respect. Self-assured referees use their knowledge and skill to influence and strengthen professional discourse.

Don’t second guess yourself, rely on your knowledge of the rules and apply the rules as written.

Look the part. In officiating, appearance before, during and after the game matters.

Use concise mechanics and signals.

Use explicit language from the rulebook to communicate to captains and coaches.

Composed – Remain Poised at All Times

“Keep your head about you when all about you are losing theirs and blaming it on you.” Though it is safe to say that Rudyard Kipling did not pen these lines of the poem with referees in mind, the words are particularly appropriate when applied to officiating. The atmosphere of competition can bring out the best and the worst in participants, including officials.

Never appear rattled by a disgruntled player, coach or fan even if you are .

Develop a very short-term memory. Every whistle marks a fresh start.

Address players, coaches and your work team with a respectful tone and body language.

Be responsive, not reactive, to misconduct. Remember, what you permit you promote.

Concentrate on the match, not the score, team or coach.

Smile, enjoy the game.

TOOLS

PAVO Certified Official’s Jacket

Are you constantly cold inside the gym during your collegiate matches and looking for a way to stay warm. The PAVO certified men’s and women’s official’s jacket is the perfect apparel for you. The jacket is the only approved outerwear for collegiate matches and can be purchased from your favorite volleyball officiating apparel retailer for $63.95.

QUICKTIP

Always bring your line judge flags

with you to your match. Never anticipate the school or another official will supply flags. If all else fails and no referees bring flags, line judges are permitted to use hand signals. However, flags are preferred and look more professional. Make sure the flags are in your bag each day when you leave your house. It is better to have all referees bring their flags than have none.

BY THE NUMBERS 16,833

The number of spectators for the Wisconsin vs. Florida match on Sept. 16 at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wis. It is the largest regular-season volleyball-only crowd in NCAA history. Florida won, 3-2. The officials for the match were: Jim Kuziela (R1) Devonie McLarty (R2) Mark Berman (LJ1) Scott Prox (LJ2)

TEST YOURSELF

In each of the following, you are given a situation and possible answer(s). You are to decide which answer(s) are correct for NFHS, NCAA or USAV rules, which might vary. Solutions: p. 85.

1. Team B’s back-row attacker jumps with one foot touching the attack line and attacks the ball while it is completely above the top of the net. Team A’s collective block, which includes team A’s back-row setter, touches the ball, and the ball lands in team A’s court. a. Double fault; replay. b. Illegal (back-row) block on team A; team B wins the rally. c. Illegal (back-row) attack on team B; team A wins the rally. d. Ball in; team B wins the rally.

2. As the second referee acknowledges a substitution request by team A, the second referee notices the team A substitute is wearing multiple hoop earrings. a. Allow the player time to remove the illegal jewelry and accept the substitution without penalty. b. Charge the team with unnecessary delay and allow the substitution. c. Allow the substitute to enter the game as the jewelry is legal. d. Charge the team with a timeout and allow the substitution at the end of the timeout. e. Assess an unnecessary delay/ delay sanction to the team, deny the substitution and do not allow the player to enter the set until the jewelry is removed.

3. Prior to the start of the match, the second referee is measuring the ball pressure of the game balls. Each ball measures 4.1 pounds per square inch. a. The game balls are legal. b. The second referee should add air into the game balls until they are between 4.3 and 4.6 pounds per square inch. c. The second referee should remove air from the game balls until they are between 3.7 and 4.0 pounds per square inch. d. The second referee should add air into the game balls until they are between 4.26 and 4.61 pounds per square inch.

4. Which of the following may request a team timeout? a. The head coach. b. The playing captain. c. Any assistant coach. d. Any player on the court.

As the saying goes, “Professionalism is not the job you do, it’s how you do the job.” Applying the four C’s of professionalism offers a framework for how to maintain professionalism as an official. When officials strive to be professional, fans will enter the match and notice these four C’s and feel confident the match will be refereed fairly. Tonya Houston, Goose Creek, S.C., is a high school and USAV referee. She is an associate professor in the College of Education at Charleston Southern University. 

Reservations About Re-serves

By Rick Brown

One of the most important aspects of volleyball is serving. Prior to every rally a serve takes place and it is important for referees to know the rules regarding the serve, especially if working multiple codes. Some codes and levels allow a re-serve while others do not. Here is a breakdown of those rules and the variances within the codes and some philosophical reasoning on the rules. Let’s start with the younger age group and work our way up.

USAV

For its 14-and-under levels of play, USAV allows five seconds for service contact with a re-serve option if the player releases the ball for service and there is no contact between the player and the toss before the ball hits the floor. The player is granted an additional five seconds to contact the ball for service, and this time the service must be contacted or an illegal service fault is whistled. This can occur every other time the ball is released for service. While the rule indicates the ball should be released from a hand or hands in executing the service action, first referees are guided to not be unduly concerned whether this actually occurs. Given the ages of the players and the focus on facilitating the ball being put into play so more rallies can occur, this approach is understandable. Referees are advised to not be strict in timing seconds and whistling a delay of service. After all, it’s all about the kids at this development level and having as many rallies as possible to help with player enjoyment of the game and learning to execute the skills the coaches are teaching. No one came to watch a first referee whistle a delay of service; the goal is to have serves put in play and go over the net. In light of being given five seconds to contact the serve, referees wait for servers to get to their desired serving positions before whistling/signaling for service.

For levels of play 14 and older, players are allowed eight seconds to contact the ball for service with no re-serve option permitted, the same as NCAA, which will be examined later.

NFHS

NFHS rules are used for both middle school matches where the players are 14 years old and younger and high school matches where players are typically 14 years of age and older. Giving a server five seconds to contact the ball for service with the ability to serve from out of hand or after the ball is released for service and a single re-serve during each term of service appears to be a reasonable option for seventh- and eighth-graders playing a “developmental level” of volleyball. NFHS rules are considered more lenient in that they allow a ball to be released for service and caught or, if the server makes an effort to contact the ball for service but misses and there is no ball-player contact, the first referee issues a re-serve one

time in the server’s term of service. Options for the server include tossing and catching the ball, tossing and dropping the ball to the floor (as shown in PlayPic A) and tossing the ball and swinging but missing and the ball not contacting the server before hitting the floor. All may lead to a re-serve being issued. If the server has not been awarded a re-serve during that same term of service, an illegal service has not occurred.

The USAV and NFHS have taken different approaches to younger age groups in terms of facilitating serving. Both organizations appear to have the same basic intent of encouraging the ball to be put into play, allowing more rallies — two different approaches, same basic objective. But what about the levels of play that involve either higher age ranges or younger players whose skill levels have resulted in them playing “up”? For USAV, these players are given eight seconds to contact the ball for service and — once the ball has been released for service — the ball must be contacted, or an illegal service fault has occurred.

NFHS Re-serve Rules

NFHS rules under 8-1-6 define how a re-serve is intended to work. If a re-serve hasn’t previously been “called” or issued previously in the same server’s term of service, the first referee “shall cancel the serve and direct a second and last attempt at serve.” There is no guidance offered regarding how quickly to direct the second and last attempt to serve, but most first referees do so within a couple of seconds unless the ball has contacted the server and rolled away.

The first referee whistles and signals “two thumbs up” (as shown in PlayPic B) to indicate a re-serve has been authorized. The first referee’s signal is mirrored by the second referee, who ensures the scorer properly records a re-serve (RS) and not a replay (R), both of which use the same signal. How could a re-serve signal possibly be misinterpreted? Let’s look at an example.

The first referee whistles and signals for service. Immediately after the second referee hears the signal for service, the receiving team coach requests a timeout. As the second referee attempts to communicate with the coach the timeout request was made too late, the server is confused by what is occurring between the irate coach and the second referee where the coach reacts verbally to not being given the timeout. The server either tosses the ball into the air to buy additional time for service with a re-serve or does not serve within five seconds. What is the fairest way to resolve this situation? The first referee should issue a replay rather than issue a re-serve as the distraction to the server was not the server’s fault. This may require the first referee to wait until the second referee has finished dealing with the upset coach. A replay, just as with a re-serve, is considered to be part of a single attempt to serve. No requests (timeout, service order, lineup check or substitution) may be recognized until a completed rally has occurred. In addition, neither team may make a libero replacement.

A

B

NCAA

NCAA volleyball involves players who are older and allows eight seconds to contact the ball for service with no re-serve option. The ball must be released for service. Most first referees strive to authorize service within about seven to eight seconds from the end of the previous rally, assuming no interruption requests, with the intent of establishing a reasonable pace of play and keeping energy in the match. Consistent pacing is intended to give teams a reasonable and predictable amount of time to get into position and avoid delays in play that are not perceived as benefiting the game.

It is important for referees to know the differences between the three codes, especially if working all three, in order to not allow a team an unfair advantage. It also could prevent a protest. Rick Brown, Westerville, Ohio, is a longtime girls’ and boys’ high school volleyball referee, working 22 state tournaments. He is a state and local rules interpreter, USAV Regional Referee and formerly a PAVO National Line Judge, working multiple D-I postseason matches. 

CASEPLAYS

Centerline Fault?

Play: After playing the ball, A1 falls to the floor and slides across the centerline. A1’s entire right leg is touching the opponent’s court, but the left foot is still on the centerline. A1’s location does not present a safety hazard or interfere with the opponent. Ruling: In NFHS, it is a centerline violation. A player may only touch the opponent’s court beyond the centerline with one or both hand(s) or feet provided part of the encroaching hand(s) or feet are on or above the centerline (NFHS 9-5-7). In NCAA and USAV, there is no violation and play continues. NCAA and USAV rules allow this play provided some part of the encroaching player’s body is on or above the centerline and the encroachment is not a safety hazard or interference (NCAA 15.2.4.2; USAV 11.2.2.2).

Ball Crosses Under Net

Play: Team A’s first contact is passed poorly and is traveling underneath the net. A1 reaches beyond the centerline to play the ball before it completely crosses the lower space under the net. Ruling: In all sets, that is legal contact. In all rule sets, the ball remains in play until it completely crosses the lower space under the net (NFHS 9-3-3h; NCAA 15.1.1.1; USAV 8.4.5).

Camouflage Numbers

Play: Team A’s jerseys are white, and the numbers are a light and dark blue camouflage and are outlined in dark blue. Ruling: In NFHS and NCAA, the numbers would be illegal as the uniform numbers must be solidcolored (NFHS 4-2-4c; NCAA 7.1.2.4). In USAV, the rules do not state that the number must be a solid color. Provided the number, taken in its entirety, is clearly contrasting in color and brightness from the jersey, and the number is clearly legible at all times and from all angles on the court, such numbers are legal (4.3.3.1c, d).

Make Time for Table Talk

By Bill Thornburgh

There are so many things to think about and do on the day of a match.

First, we must prepare to leave. What time should we depart? What route should we drive? Will there be traffic? Do I have my uniform cleaned and ready? Do I have all my referee gear?

Second, when we arrive onsite, it’s time to check the equipment and examine the facility. Here is a long list of obvious items on the referees’ to-do list: Is the net height correct? Are the game balls properly inflated? Are the antennae attached and in good position? Are there towels available? Is the referee stand secured and at the right height (if it’s adjustable)? Is everything padded that should be? Are there any overhead obstacles or playing area concerns? Is the Challenge Review System (CRS) in use? If so, how many cameras are there, what is the quality and zoom capability, is the technician experienced?

Third, it’s time to focus on the crew. The R1 and R2 have plenty of time to talk from courtside arrival until the match begins. It is wise to use this time to discuss techniques, preferences, sanctions and communication. During this pre-match time, the R1 should have a discussion with line judges and assign them positions (unless they have been by an assigner). Additionally, review the match protocol sheet for information on promotions, confirmation of timeout length, time between sets and any special events. Finally, take a few minutes to know who’s who at the table — who is in charge of music, who is announcing, is there a timeout coordinator (TOC), where are the stats people and where will the game day administrator be during the match?

While the R1 is gathering important information about the upcoming match, the R2 should also be hard at work. In a college match, the R2 needs to know where the stats people are located in case there is a protest, what the TOC will do to indicate when television is ready, who controls the music in case there is an issue and who is the CRS technician. Most importantly, though, who is keeping score and tracking the libero (and challenges in NCAA matches)? Of course, both the R1 and R2 should introduce themselves to the scorers when they arrive on court; however, the R2 will be the primary point of contact throughout the match and must spend time talking to them at all levels of play.

This is an area where referees can improve. Let’s discuss some do’s and don’ts when it comes to talking with your table crew.

Introductions. Say hello, introduce yourself and take time to exchange pleasantries.

“Hi, I’m Bill. How are you? I’m excited to be here, it’s been a while since I saw you last.”

Be kind. Table crews are often locals who work at the school throughout the season and they do so because they enjoy it. At some levels of

Talking with the table crew and making sure the scorers are comfortable is an important job for referees. Fetu-Ao Alailima, Long Beach, Calif., makes sure the table is ready before giving the court back to the first referee.

play, it may be players from a previous or later match. We are visitors in “their home,” so be nice.

Make eye contact, smile, share small talk, and/or make an offer (e.g. take trash away, ask if they need a drink, ask what you can do for them).

Listen first, ask questions second. Take the time to find out their experience level and how they work together. Don’t start out by barking orders about what you want, especially if it’s very different than what they are used to doing. We want the scorers to be comfortable, accurate and work within an efficient system. Ask them, “How long have you been keeping score and/or working at this school? Do you work together often?”

“Do you (the assistant scorer) call out sub numbers for him/her (the scorer)? How will you let me (the R2) know you are ready to go?

“When will you start telling me how many substitutions each team has taken? I don’t need to know until (insert number based on rule set), but if you see a coach is asking often, go ahead and update me after each one.”

“If you need more time on subs or have any questions, just let me know and we’ll slow down. It’s better to be a little slow and correct in order to avoid issues later.

“Will you (the assistant scorer) let me know verbally or with hand signals whether the liberos are in or out?”

Be inclusive and supportive. In NCAA matches, if CRS is in effect, be sure to communicate with the scorers first — what the challenge is and what the original call was. Then, let them know the final result before turning to the court to deliver the decision.

If a sanction is given, communicate clearly with the table and allow them to record it without telling them how to do it. If you see they need help, provide it.

During timeouts and between sets, review their work. If it’s good, let them know. If something is going well, give them a discrete thumbs up and express your appreciation.

At the college level, invite them to participate — “If you’d like, you’re welcome to join us in the locker room for our post-match conference.”

Just before the match ends, or as it ends, say thank you and/or shake their hand.

Please take this advice and consider how you interact with scorers. The right “table talk” will create a more positive relationship, you’ll be perceived as a team player, they will feel included and valued, and they will enjoy working with you on future matches. Plus, you lose nothing by following these simple rules. So, it’s a win-win situation for everybody involved. Bill Thornburgh, Shelbyville, Ky., is a National USAV and PAVO referee, as well as a FIVB International referee. He works in the Big Ten, Atlantic Coast, Southeastern and other D-I conferences around the Midwest. 

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