NBA referee James Williams, a.k.a. “Gucci,” has had a remarkable journey on and off the court.
38 BIGGEST STORIES 2024 Referee editors ranked the most significant officiating stories of the year.
52 CARE-FRONTATION
It’s important for officials to prioritize mind health and self-healing, according to Bob Delaney.
72 OPEN MIC PRO referees prepared and practiced making VAR announcements, which were introduced this past MLS season.
ON THE COVER
Jimi Zawacki (left) Osseo, Wis.
Age: 37
Officiating experience: High school basketball official for 17 years. Has worked both WIAA Division I and Division II state championships.
Bobbie Reinhart (center) Madison, Wis.
Age: 36
Officiating experience: High school basketball official for 14 years, NAIA college basketball official for six years, high school football official for eight years. Has worked two WIAA boys’ basketball state championships.
Kevin Johnson (right) Iola, Wis.
Age: 56
Officiating experience: High school basketball official, 33 years; JUCO basketball official, 10 years; high school baseball umpire, 35 years; American Legion baseball umpire, 37 years; NCAA Division III baseball umpire, 25 years; high school football official, six years.
COLUMNS
Triple Threat: Embrace the Three-Person Learning Curve; A Twist on Team Control; Setting the Tone
A Second Opinion: NCAA Tweaks U3 Mechanics When Rotated; Give ’Em the Option
32 FOOTBALL
Magic Touch? Rules Regarding a Punt Touched Downfield; A Visit to No-Man’s Land; Four Dead-Ball Errors; Goalline Decisions Galore
Don’t Flip Out: Know How to Handle Tricky Throwin Plays; Hold That Line; Clash Acts
Movement With a Purpose: It’s Called the Working Area for a Reason; Firmness and Fairness; Interference or a Brief Interruption?
Prevent the Preventable: Prematch Communication: Talk It Out; Standard Bearer; Hide ‘N’ Seek; 5MW Suzanne Lowry 74 ALL SPORTS Arrive Ready: Exude Your Sense of Purpose; Crack Down on Pretend Violence? It’s Definitely Worth a Shot; Stretch or Warm Up? Try Both
Letters: The Myth of Framing Pitches; They Said It 8 THE NEWS
H.S. Football Official Paralyzed; NBA Promotes Officials; Former NFL Official Jury Dies; Drouches Retiring as Umpire Coordinator; Youth Hockey Referee Blinded
50 PROFILES
Wilcox Writes Final Chapter to Storied Career; Finding Balance; A Robust Résumé
70
What’s Your Why?; Helping the Homeless; Whistle Up Louisiana
78 FOR THE RECORD Biggest Stories 2024: Deaths, Retirements, Transitions, Recognitions
80 LAW Call of Duty?; Plan an Educational Session on Taxes
81 CLASSIFIEDS Camps/Clinics/Schools; Equipment/Apparel; Leadership Resources; Training Resources
82 LAST CALL My Superpower: “I realized autism was likely a large part of why officiating was so natural for me and that this new understanding of myself could be my officiating superpower.”
Kelly Talsma, Bellflower, Calif., converses with the scorer to gauge her experience and also explain how things will be handled in the upcoming match.
PUBLISHER’S MEMO
Living the Brand
For the past 49 years we have been “living the brand,” beyond “living the dream.” When Referee’s first issue came out in January 1976, we officials had no voice — none! We were being treated like second-class citizens, if citizens at all. We were told where to be, when to be there and to keep our noses clean. And let’s not forget that our value to the game certainly wasn’t reflected in the lousy game fees we were being paid.
I felt such disrespect deeply and felt we needed to have a voice … our own voice. “By Officials, for Officials” became our motto. Still is. The “by officials” part is key and allow me to expand upon that this month.
Within our organizations (REI and NASO), the main groupings are, in no particular order: Administration, Marketing, Design and Creative, Digital and Video, Association Management, Customer Service and Editorial. For this column, let’s focus on this last area, editorial.
Within REI, we produce not only the monthly voice-of-officiating, Referee magazine, we turn out the monthly newsletters for NASO and an amazing array of products to serve all those who officiate sports. The array includes: sportby-sport officials manuals, specialty publications, digital content and custom newsletters for a huge number of governing organizations.
The content we produce has to be good and it has to be accurate, period. Our editorial team needs to know what it is talking about, writing about. Since officiating is so nuanced in its application, being an active official sure is a major assist in getting to that goalline. You’ve got to talk the talk and it sure helps if you actually walk the walk. Our team does.
The editorial staff here at Referee has been “living the brand” for decades. They have work schedules
and they have their officiating schedules, just like the vast majority of our readers. They are active in many, many sports. During the day they write about the officiating of a sport and later that day, they go out and work that sport. That is an unbeatable combination, leading to unique insights and extraordinary accuracy.
Today, we have the strongest and most respected team of sport editors in our 49-year history. They have built their resumes, their standing in our industry. Their opinions are valued in national rules committee meetings. They have “written the book,” “designed the book,” when it comes to the officiating manuals all of us use, at the high school and collegiate levels.
They have created a legacy of supporting officials in the most fundamental way possible: with the creation of the best content anywhere. Their words and their graphics serve you. They serve you best because, like you, they are in the trenches with you. They aren’t creating words and graphics from within some distant ivory tower. They know what you need. They walk the walk.
Now, I would get rapped on the knuckles if I did not mention this: our team’s active officiating experience goes beyond just the editorial department. Two special examples: our Chief Marketing Officer and our Chief Business Development Officer are both very active and much-respected officials. The officiating perspective permeates all that we do here. You have our ear, our mindset, our backbone. You have our support. We are in the trenches right along with you.
Chief Strategy Officer/Publisher
Barry Mano
Chief Operating Officer/Executive Editor
Bill Topp
Chief Marketing Officer
Jim Arehart
Chief Business Development Officer
Ken Koester
Editor
Brent Killackey
Assistant Managing Editor
Julie Sternberg
Senior Editor
Jeffrey Stern
Associate Editors
Joe Jarosz
Brad Tittrington
Scott Tittrington
Assistant Editor
Brad Star
Director of Design, Digital Media and Branding
Ross Bray
Publication Design Manager
Matt Bowen
Creative Designer
Dustin Brown
Creative Designer
Rob VanKammen
Video Coordinator
Mike Dougherty
Comptroller
Marylou Clayton
Director of Marketing & Audience Development
Dan Olson
Data Analyst/Fulfillment Manager
Judy Ball
Director of Administration and Sales Support
Cory Ludwin
Office Administrator
Garrett Randall
Client Services Support Specialists
Lisa Burchell
Trina Cotton
Bryce Killackey
Editorial Contributors
Jon Bible, Mark Bradley, George Demetriou, Alan Goldberger, Judson Howard, Peter Jackel, Dan Ronan, Tim Sloan, Steven L. Tietz, Rick Woelfel
These organizations offer ongoing assistance to Referee: Collegiate Commissioners Association, MLB, MLS, NBA, NCAA, NFHS, NISOA, NFL, NHL, Minor League Baseball Umpire Development and U.S. Soccer. Their input is appreciated.
Contributing Photographers
Ralph Echtinaw, Dale Garvey, Carin Goodall-Gosnell, Bill Greenblatt, Jann Hendry, Keith Johnston, Jack Kapenstein, Ken Kassens, Bob Messina, Bill Nichols, Ted Oppegard, Heston Quan, Dean Reid, VIP
Editorial Board
Mark Baltz, Jeff Cluff, Ben Glass, Mike Graf, Reggie Greenwood, John O’Neill, George Toliver, Ellen Townsend
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Founded in 1976 by Barry and Jean Mano. REFEREE (ISSN 0733+1436) is published monthly, $49.95 per year in U.S., $84.95 in Canada, Mexico and foreign countries, by Referee Enterprises, Inc., 2017 Lathrop Ave., Racine, WI 53405. Periodical postage paid at Racine, WI and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes and undeliverables to REFEREE, PO Box 319 Congers, NY 10920. Direct subscription inquiries, other mail to REFEREE, PO Box 319 Congers, NY 10920. 1-800-733-6100.
STANDING BEHIND YOU AND YOUR GAME
Baseball • Basketball • Football • Lacrosse • Soccer
Softball • Volleyball • Wrestling
THE GAG RULE
The Myth of Framing Pitches
I am a 30-year high school baseball umpire in south Florida, arguably a hot bed of high school baseball talent. I’ve seen my share of top prospects.
Recently, MLB statisticians have come up with a stat for framing pitches. MLB catchers are actually ranked on how well they do it. Ridiculous says I. The idea that a major league umpire would be fooled by such nonsense is laughable. Every umpire, even the greenest Little League umpire, knows where the ball is when it hits the catcher’s mitt.
Aside from that, MLB umps are trained to track the ball as it passes through the strike zone. They are graded by a computer system for how well they do at it. That being said, why would an MLB umpire ever be fooled by a catcher who sets up at a minimum of 3 feet behind the strike zone. It makes no sense. On top of that I have never heard of an MLB umpire admitting to being influenced by a catcher framing a pitch.
Why does no one within the ranks of the MLB umpires call this out? As I said, this is nonsense. Let’s set the record straight.
Eric Foust Pompano Beach,
Fla.
“Fehlstart angriff. Fünf hof strafe. It’s by the center. It’s third down.”
— NFL referee Shawn Hochuli, announcing a false start in German during the New York Giants-Carolina Panthers game on Nov. 10, 2024, in Munich.
THEY GET IT
“Nobody gave us a chance. Your whole network doubted us. Nobody believed us. And then they tried to rob us with calls, in this place.”
— Georgia football head coach Kirby Smart during an onfield postgame interview after his No. 5-ranked Bulldogs upset the top-ranked and previously undefeated Texas Longhorns in October.
SURVEY SAYS
“Jim McKay from ABC said, ‘Well, the Canadian referee has a lot of problems out here. There’s blood all over the place and we can’t hear his whistle.’”
– Ron Foxcroft, founder and CEO of Fox 40 International, describing a situation from the 1976 Olympics basketball gold medal game that served as a catalyst for the invention of the Fox 40 pealess whistle during his “Determination” presentation on the A to Zebra podcast hosted by Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta.
“All the headlines will be, ‘Reeve cries foul.’ Bring it on. Because this s--- was stolen from us. Bring it on.”
— Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, following the 2024 WNBA Finals defeat at the hands of the New York Liberty. Reeve was not fined by the WNBA for her comments.
Officials, if you don’t currently work with any form of replay in your primary sport at your primary level, would you want to? 51 %
%
Tell Us What You Think Send email to letters@referee.com
THE NEWS
H.S. Football Official Paralyzed During Game
PANAMA CITY, Fla. — Rick DeBolt, Lynn Haven, Fla., is continuing to recover from injuries sustained while working a high school football game on Nov. 1, 2024. He was officiating a sideline position on his crew while North Bay Haven Charter Academy was playing host to Sneads High School.
DeBolt was hit in the legs by a player during a freak accident and sustained severe spinal cord injuries in the fall that resulted from the contact.
The day after the game, DeBolt underwent surgery at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Panama City and recovered from surgery at that location for two weeks. DeBolt’s wife, Cindy, indicated the prognosis for recovery was good and on Nov. 14 DeBolt was relocated to Atlanta’s Shepherd Center, a specialized brain and spinal cord injury rehabilitation facility.
Despite the significant trauma and the extended road to recovery, the DeBolts are keeping a positive outlook on the situation presented to them.
“My grandmother always said, ‘If God brings you to it, he’ll bring you through it,’ and he’s showing us daily that he is in the midst of this, and he is opening doors and getting things lined up that
THE WIRE
NBA Referee Diagnosed With Leukemia
NBA referee Scott Wall was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia prior to the start of the 2024-25 season, the NBRA announced in November. All NBA referees are using a whistle marked with the No. 31 — Wall’s jersey number
I couldn’t have even imagined,” Cindy DeBolt told WJHG-TV.
The Bay County community has been extremely supportive of DeBolt and his family as they navigate the troubling waters of recovery. Shortly after surgery at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, the North Bay Haven football community presented DeBolt with a football signed by the team and cheerleaders.
North Bay Haven Charter Academy Athletic Director Steve Gillispie, in a statement to WJHG-TV, summarized the institution’s appreciation of DeBolt’s commitment to interscholastic athletics and support of his recovery: “I’m sure there’s going to be some tough days and facing a long road, but it might be something that will maybe brighten their day and just show them that there are a lot of people in our community and in Bay County in general that are thinking about them and pulling for them.”
DeBolt had been involved in officiating youth flag, middle school and high school football, in addition to umpiring youth travel baseball.
A GoFundMe page has been established by community members in attempts to offset medical expenses and support the family while DeBolt and his wife are unable to work.
— for the remainder of the season. Wall, 58, has undergone chemotherapy treatment and had a 30-day hospital stay, the union said, adding that “doctors have successfully eliminated the leukemia cells from his body and have transitioned Scott into the next phase of treatment.”
Wall has worked 1,530 games in 30 seasons as an NBA referee, including 14 playoff games and the 2012 NBA All-Star Game.
NHL Referee Stretchered Off Ice
NBA Promotes Ralls, Ricks; Holtkamp-Sterling Retires
NEW YORK — The NBA has promoted two referees to the league’s full-time staff for the 2024-25 season.
JD Ralls and Tyler Ricks have joined the NBA’s officiating ranks on a full-time basis for the first time in their careers.
“JD and Tyler are two more examples demonstrating how the NBA G League is used as an important development tool and training ground,” NBA Senior Vice President Monty McCutchen said. “We recognize their continued service to the game and celebrate their rise to the NBA ranks.”
Ralls refereed eight regularseason games as a non-staff official during the 2023-24 NBA season. He has officiated seven seasons in the G League, including six years of playoff games and four Finals games. In 2022 and 2023, Ralls officiated both the NBA Summer League championship game and the Basketball Africa League Finals.
Ricks officiated six regularseason games during the 2022-23 NBA season and eight regularseason games during the 2023-24 season as a non-staff official.
NHL referee Mitch Dunning was removed from the ice on a stretcher after a collision with Colorado Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson during the first period of Colorado’s 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Nov. 18 at the Wells Fargo
Center. Dunning was taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons; all neurological signs were normal, he was fully communicative and could move all his extremities. Dunning was positioned in the neutral zone when Manson hit him while trying to join the play in the Philadelphia zone. The game continued with one referee and two linesmen.
See “NBA” p.10
Former NFL Official Jury Dies; Worked Five Super Bowls
RIALTO, Calif. — Al Jury, who officiated five Super Bowls in a stellar 26-year NFL career, died Nov. 6. He was 83.
Off the field, Jury worked for the California Highway Patrol. He was hired by the NFL in 1978 as a deep official and was on the league staff until he retired in 2004. His expertise resulted in assignment to 21 playoff games, including three Wild Card games, eight Divisional Playoff games, five Conference Championship games and Super Bowls XX, XXII, XXIV, XXVIII and XXXIV.
It was in the latter Super Bowl, between the Tennessee Titans and St. Louis Rams, that Jury made his most memorable ruling. The Titans, trailing, 23-16, marched to the St. Louis 10 yardline with time for only one more play. Quarterback Steve McNair threw a dart to Kevin Dyson, who caught the ball just inside the St. Louis five yardline. Linebacker Mike Jones closed quickly and pulled down Dyson, with Dyson reaching the ball across the goalline at the last
THE WIRE
Former CBOA Instructor Sues Over Wages, Firing
A former California Basketball Officials Association instructor is suing the organization and its South Bay unit claiming she should have been classified as an employee of the organization — not an independent contractor — and is owed wages and reimbursements. Yvette Perry, who now resides in Georgia, also claims in the suit filed in California courts that the organization “engaged in discrimination, retaliation and harassment” based
instant. But Jury ruled the ball dead at the one yardline.
“I could clearly see his knee was down before he got the ball across the goalline,” Jury told Referee in a 2022 interview. “There was no question in my mind. I told Bob McElwee, the referee, ‘Don’t go running off the field, stick around, because they’re gonna look at it (on replay).’ But I had no doubts that I was correct on it.”
Replay confirmed the ruling and the Rams were awarded the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Jury was also involved in a controversy of another kind after a Dec. 23, 1995, game. New York Giants fans pelted the officials with snow and ice as they left the field. Jury responded by raising his middle finger to the crowd. The league fined him $1,750.
Jury loved officiating and worked basketball, softball and baseball in addition to football. When asked what drew him to officiating, he said, “Just being around the sport, I guess. The idea of being involved in athletics. It’s been quite a ride for me, starting out working youth football and youth baseball, and umpiring Little League, and making it up to the NFL has been quite a ride for me.”
on her sex and terminated her. “The real reason CBOA made this determination is because plaintiff used to be romantically involved with CBOA’s board president, and this person held a grudge against plaintiff on the basis of her sex and/or gender and used this issue as an opportunity to cause her harm on this basis,” the suit stated.
Group States Support for Official Suing USA Rugby
National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) issued a statement in November
NBA continued from p.8
He’s refereed nine seasons in the G League, where he worked six years of playoff games and two years of Finals games.
In addition to their NBA assignments this season, as officials with fewer than four years of experience, Ralls and Ricks will continue to officiate G League games as well.
With the promotions of Ralls and Ricks, the NBA has 75 fulltime officials this season, one more than last year. The only full-time referee from last season who did not return was Lauren Holtkamp-Sterling, who retired due to ongoing knee issues. Holtkamp-Sterling, who was just the third full-time female official to ever officiate in the NBA when she was hired in 2014, has dealt with knee injuries for years — including three ACL tears, one of which she suffered while refereeing in the NBA. She was limited to 15 games last season and ultimately decided her long-term health was her priority.
“My medical retirement is all about my knees,” HoltkampSterling told the Associated Press in October. “It was really sad to me to bump up against physical limitations, truly.”
supporting an official who is suing USA Rugby. Justin Hale of Hutto, Texas, filed suit in late October against USA Rugby and Jamie McGregor, the director of training and education at USA Rugby, alleging tortious interference, retaliation and defamation. The suit, which was filed in federal court in Texas, alleges efforts were made to block him from assignments
after he worked games for other organizations, including NCR. Hale is seeking $250,000 for loss of income, emotional distress and reputational harm, as well as other punitive damages.
Utah Athletic Director Fined $40,000
Utah athletic director Mark Harlan was fined $40,000 for his comments following the Utah football team’s 22-21 loss to BYU on Nov. 10. “We won this game,” Harlan said after the game. “Someone else stole it from us.
Drouches Retiring as Umpire Coordinator
INDIANAPOLIS — After 11 years as the NCAA national coordinator of baseball umpires, George M. Drouches will step down at the end of the 2025 baseball season. His contract officially expires at the end of August, three weeks after his 69th birthday.
Drouches’ NCAA relationship spans more than two decades. Before his time as national coordinator, Drouches spent 10 years as the Division III coordinator of umpires.
“I’ve been very blessed to be around baseball for a long time,” Drouches said. “I don’t know how many national coordinators have been able to work with the NCAA for 21 years.
“It’s time. The (umpiring) program’s in a great place. I think we’ve built a system for success working collaboratively not only with the national office but conference coordinators. I’m very pleased with what we’ve built and excited for the opportunity for the next national coordinator.”
Drouches recently retired after 35 years in private business. He spent a number of years as a high school teacher and coach and also served as the head coach for both men’s basketball and baseball at his alma mater, Saint Mary’s (Minnesota). Drouches is also a member of the athletics halls of fame at both Saint Mary’s and Minneapolis DeLaSalle High School.
In addition to his work in college baseball, Drouches spent 15 years as men’s and women’s basketball supervisor of officials for the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. He also spent 17 years as chief executive officer for a 200-member umpire association working with college, high school, amateur and American Legion baseball.
Drouches’ sports officiating career spans over 40 years as a college football official, 35 years as a college basketball official and 25 years as a college baseball umpire.
“I’ve always gone 100 miles per hour with my hair on fire. I’m actually looking forward to just stepping back to see what comes,” said Drouches about the retirement life. “I have no issues with just taking some time to kind of relax.”
Randy L. Buhr, NCAA director of championships and alliances, praised Drouches’ work with college baseball.
“George has done an exceptional job as the national coordinator of umpires for Division I baseball for over a decade,” Buhr said in a news release. “His service to college baseball and the NCAA Division I Baseball Championship has been the gold standard. George has been a trusted and respected colleague for umpires, conference umpire coordinators, administrators and the entire baseball community, not to mention for me personally. We will miss his leadership and dedication to advancing umpiring nationally, and we wish him nothing but the best.”
The NCAA planned to conduct a national search for Drouches’ replacement.
Youth Hockey Referee Blinded
A St. Louis-area hockey referee was blinded in his left eye by a hockey stick Oct. 26 while officiating a youth ice hockey game.
Dean Robinson, 56, was refereeing a AAA under-15 game at Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Mo., when he was struck in the face with a stick.
The blade of the stick accidentally
slashed Robinson’s left eye, rupturing the eye’s globe. Robinson had a threeand-a-half-hour emergency surgery the next morning; doctors said it is unlikely he will regain sight in the eye.
Robinson said he hopes to stay involved refereeing at the lower youth levels.
SOURCE: ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
Very disappointed. … This was not fair to our team. I’m disgusted by the professionalism of the officiating crew tonight.” Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark condemned Harlan’s remarks and said that “a repeat of such behavior will result in a more serious penalty.” Harlan’s fine is the largest handed out by the Big 12 in over a decade.
Soccer Referee Suspended After Rant
Premier League referee David Coote was suspended in
November after video footage surfaced of him making derogatory comments about Liverpool player and manager Jurgen Klopp. The clip, which emerged on social media, appeared to be from the 2020-21 season. Coote called Klopp “arrogant” and accused him of lying after a 1-1 draw between Liverpool and Burnley during Project Restart in 2020. Professional Game Match Officials Ltd is investigating the incident.
Turkish Soccer Executive Gets Prison Time
A Turkish court on Sept. 11 sentenced former MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca to three-and-a-half years in prison for assaulting a referee on the field at the end of a league game last season. Koca punched referee Halil Umut Meler in the face after the final whistle of a 1-1 draw in a Super Lig game against Caykur Rizespor last year. Meler fell to the ground and was also kicked by fans who invaded the field.
SOURCES: AP, ESPN, LAW360.COM, NHL.COM, USA TODAY
Referee Hiring for Editorial Team
Referee is hiring an associate editor. If you’ve got experience in both officiating and writing/ editing/publishing — and want to join the company at the epicenter of the officiating industry — we want to hear from you! For information on this opportunity, visit referee. com/careers.
TRIPLE THREAT
Embrace the Three-Person Learning Curve
By Kevin Erickson
Ifyou are in the journey of your officiating career where you are transitioning from the twoperson to the three-person system, congratulations! You are ready to take the next step toward becoming an even better play caller.
Before we get into some advantages, differences and mindsets, one note of caution: It takes quite a few games to get comfortable transitioning from two-person to three-person officiating. If I remember correctly when I first learned the three-person system, it took me 10-15 games before the light bulb started coming on.
When Washington state started transitioning to three-person officiating for high school games in 2004-05, I considered myself a fairly accomplished two-person official. I had achieved success at a couple of state tournaments and I was not convinced three-person was necessary. Boy, was I wrong! After getting the hang of the three-person system, you’ll wonder how you ever survived two-person and you’ll realize just how many plays you were not officiating and begin wondering how often you guessed.
Advantages
One advantage is three-person reduces the number of players to officiate at any given time. When the three-person system is followed, no official should ever have to referee more than two matchups at a time. Officiating only two matchups (two
Utah officials (from left) Brent Jorgensen, Newton; James Tracy, West Haven; and Deborah Thomas, Roy, share a light moment during a game. Being part of a three-official crew provides many advantages compared to working the twoofficial system.
offensive players and two defenders) will raise your correct call and correct no-call percentages.
Another advantage is the ability to see plays from beginning to end. In two-person, there are several times a game when you turn to pick up a play and see contact, but are unable to see the beginning of the action. This leads to guessing. Three-person will eliminate the guessing because officials will be able to see plays from beginning to end. We all know that officiating the defense is the key to correctly adjudicating a play. While only responsible for one or two matchups, officials have time to judge the legality of the defender before any contact occurs.
Also, court coverage is improved. Obviously, dividing the court by three officials rather than two gets us closer to some plays, especially in transition, but it is the improved angles and open looks that make the big difference. The three-person system enables officials to obtain and maintain views between the offensive player and the defender. As we continue to improve three-person skills, we’ll begin to recognize more and more plays where the official closest to the play does not have the best look. My favorite play to describe this concept is when a post player has the ball right in front of the lead. The post player then spins to the middle of the key. When this happens, the lead official is still the closest to the play, but the post defender is directly in between the offensive player and the lead official, resulting in a closed look. The trail official might have a decent look at the play, but it’s usually the center official (farthest from the play) who has the open look between the post player and defender.
Off-ball coverage is greatly improved in the three-person system. When executed properly, the lead official and the trail official are on the strong side of the court. This frees up the center official to watch off-ball action on the weak side of the court. When the center official cleans up illegal activity away from the primary action, the game is less physical and has better flow. Freedom of
movement is enhanced when bumps, chucks and holds are disallowed.
Things to Remember
With three officials in a crew, the number of potential double whistles goes up if officials are following the ball. Ball-watchers will get exposed in three-person by creating unnecessary double whistles and by that “deer in the headlights” look when a big crash happens in their primary coverage area and they have no idea what happened. Officials need to learn to have slow whistles and recognize which official has the primary responsibility on each play to cut down on unnecessary multiple whistles. When beginning threeperson, concentrate on only putting whistles on plays involving matchups in your primary area. After getting comfortable in three-person, there may be rare occasions when you look outside of designated coverage areas briefly, but don’t worry about that at the beginning.
It will take a little while to get the rhythm of switches after a foul is called. If a foul is called by one of your partners and you aren’t sure where you are supposed to go, just stop. Let your partners move to their spots and then fill in the unoccupied spot. Other than your two partners, nobody in the gym will even realize that you didn’t know.
Don’t get mentally paralyzed by all the new things and forget to officiate. When the Washington Officials Association first adopted three-person back in 2004-05, we had a few trainwreck plays that didn’t have a whistle on them. Mentally, officials were thinking, “Do you have that play? Do I have that play?” The result was that nobody had it. Be ready to put a late whistle on obvious plays. Take a deep breath and don’t forget to at least get your out-ofbounds calls if you feel like you are overwhelmed.
Speeding Up Your Mastery
I highly recommend picking up a copy of the NFHS Basketball Officials Manual. We all have our own learning styles and I generally learn better by “doing” than “reading,” but this book
BY THE NUMBERS
2The number of new referees on the NBA fulltime officiating staff with the promotions of JD Ralls and Tyler Ricks. Ralls had worked 28 NBA games prior to the start of the 2024-25 season in addition to the past seven seasons in the G League, while Ricks had worked 24 NBA games and nine seasons in the G League. Their promotions mean the NBA has a staff of 75 full-time referees this season.
SIDELINE
NYT Podcast Discusses Officiating
The New York Times recently shone a light on the world of basketball officiating as part of its new podcast series, “What It’s Like To Be …” hosted by bestselling author Dan Heath. The podcast series is described on its homepage (whatitsliketobe. com) as follows:
“Join New York Times bestselling author Dan Heath as he explores the world of work, one profession at a time, and interviews people who love what they do. … If you’ve ever met someone whose work you were curious about, and you had 100 nosy questions but were too polite to ask … well, this is the show for you.”
In the debut season’s 30th episode, Heath chats with longtime NBA referee Billy Kennedy. The episode features this description:
“Ignoring 10,000 booing fans, collaborating with the replay center, and striving for perfection with Billy Kennedy, an NBA referee. What happens when you get a call wrong? And what’s the difference between the trail, slot and lead officials?”
The episode went live on Oct. 22, 2024, and can be found through various streaming channels including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music.
TEST YOURSELF
In each of the following, there are at least two possible answers. You are to decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS, NCAA men’s and NCAA women’s rules, which might vary. Solutions: p. 81.
1. When a team requests and is granted an excessive timeout, what shall be the length of that excessive timeout?
a. 30 seconds in all games.
b. 60 seconds in all games.
c. 75 seconds in all games.
d. 30 seconds in games involving the electronic-media format, and 60 seconds in games not involving the electronic-media format.
e. 30 seconds in games involving the electronic-media format, 75 seconds in games not involving the electronic-media format.
f. The head coach of the team who called the excessive timeout may decide the length (30 seconds or full).
2. Jumper A5 tips the game’s opening jump ball toward the sideline. A1 and B1 run to the ball and simultaneously touch the ball as it goes out of bounds. How shall play resume?
a. Administer a throw-in to team A.
b. Administer a throw-in to team B.
c. Administer another jump ball between A1 and B1.
d. Administer another jump ball between the original jumpers.
e. Administer another jump ball between any two opposing players.
3. A1 is to shoot two free throws, and team B calls a timeout. When substitute B6 reports to the scorer after the warning horn that sounds before the end of a timeout, when shall B6 be allowed to enter the game?
a. Before A1’s first free throw.
b. After A1’s first free throw.
c. After A1’s second free throw, if successful, otherwise during the first opportunity after the game started following A1’s unsuccessful free throw.
d. Only during the first opportunity after the game clock properly starts.
4. A live ball is deflected upward and enters the basket from below. Which of the following is true?
a. It is a violation as soon as the ball enters the basket from below.
b. It is a violation if any part of the ball goes above the ring after entering from the below.
c. It is a violation if the entire ball goes above the ring after entering from below.
d. The ball entering the basket from below is never a violation.
If a foul is called by one of your partners and you aren’t sure where you are supposed to go, just stop.
is fabulous. It has great diagrams to improve your understanding of all kinds of plays, rotations and switches. I still reference it once in a while and I keep it in my referee bag to reference in pregame conferences and at halftime.
Attending a three-person learning camp is another way to improve the velocity of your improvement and understanding. I emphasize “learning” in the previous sentence because I am not talking about a college tryout camp. Find a camp that is set up to teach. Those camps are usually far less expensive and
provide more grace and patience to those learning three-person.
Good luck in your journey to three-person. If you apply yourself and give yourself some patience, you’ll soon see the benefits and advantages of three-person and wonder how you ever survived the two-person system.
Kevin Erickson is a high school and junior college basketball official in the state of Washington. He has officiated several state championship games and is the officials coordinator for the 3A/4A Washington State High School Basketball Tournament.
There are several resources available for learning three-person officiating mechanics, including the NFHS Basketball Officials Manual, which uses MechaniGrams to illustrate various scenarios, such as basic frontcourt coverage areas.
Full Color Photos & Diagrams HandPicked Articles
100+ Caseplays and Test Q&As
Latest NFHS Rules & Mechanics Changes
This is the comprehensive guide you need to be ready to work High School basketball this season. All new and recent rule changes broken down, Points of Emphasis clarified and tough situations made simple - all in a full-color, magazine-sized annual guide. Includes hundreds of caseplays and quiz questions!
CASEPLAYS
Screening a Moving Opponent Play: A1 is dribbling up the floor and is closely guarded by B2. As A1 and B2 enter team A’s frontcourt, A3 moves into B2’s path, stops with their feet within shoulder width and remains stationary. A3’s screen is within B2’s visual field, and the screening position is obtained within a step of B2. Although B2 can see A3 coming, B2 is unable to stop or change direction. B2’s contact knocks A3 to the floor. Is A3’s screen legal? Ruling: A3’s screen is not legal. Although A3 was “set” prior to the contact, and regardless that A3 was within B2’s visual field, a screener may not take a position so close to a moving opponent such that the opponent cannot avoid contact by stopping or changing direction. Anything short of a step is not sufficient space for any moving opponent to stop or avoid contact regardless the speed B2 was moving, and A3 shall be charged with an illegal screen (NFHS 4-40-5; NCAAM 4-35.3.c; NCAAW 10-5.3.c).
Illegal Undershirt
Play: Team A is wearing white jerseys. A1, who is a designated starter, is wearing a black undershirt that is covered by A1’s warmup shirt during pregame warmups. The officials do not notice A1 is wearing an illegally colored undershirt until shortly before opening tip after A1 removes the warmup shirt. Shall A1 be allowed to play with the black undershirt? If not, may team A replace starter A1 without penalty? Ruling: The only legally colored undershirt team A players may wear is white. Therefore, A1 cannot participate while wearing a black undershirt. There are exceptions that allow a team to change a designated starter, and changes to replace a uniform that cannot be worn are among those exceptions in NFHS and NCAAW. Therefore, team A will be able to replace the designated starter A1 without penalty due to the illegal undershirt (NFHS 3-2-2a, 3-5-6a; NCAAW 1-23.1, 3-4.2, AR 3-4). In NCAAM, if A1 removes the undershirt in time, he may remain as a starter. If he is unable to do so, the change to a designated starter results in an adminstrative technical foul (NCAAM 1-23.1, 10-2.2b).
A Twist on Team Control
By Scott Tittrington
It’s drilled into us from the moment we start officiating: Know your definitions. If you have a strong understanding of rule 4 in the NFHS and NCAA rulebooks, you have the foundation necessary for making accurate rulings when you step on the court.
Still, things can get wonky if we take a definition at face value and fail to delve deeper into the rulebook to understand certain nuances that may arise during a game. A perfect example is team control and how it must be applied during a throw-in situation.
All three rule codes are clear in their definitions of the four situations in which there is team control: when a player of the team is in control (NFHS 4-12-2a; NCAAM 4-9-2a; NCAAW 4-8-2a), while a live ball is being passed between teammates (NFHS 4-12-2b;
NCAAW 4-8-2b) including when the pass is muffed by the receiving teammate (NCAAM 4-9-2b), during an interrupted dribble (NFHS 4-122c; NCAAW 4-8-2d) or any loose ball (NCAAM 4-9-2d), and when a player of that team has disposal of the ball for a throw-in (NFHS 4-122d; NCAAM 4-9-2c; NCAAW 4-8-2c).
However, a further examination of each rulebook reveals that, when it comes to the last of those elements, not all team control is treated equally. It’s such an important point that, prior to the start of the 2024-25 season, the NFHS created three editorial changes related to team control to emphasize the need for officials to recognize how team control on a throw-in differs from the other three situations.
NFHS rule 4-12-2 now includes a note that states: “Team control during a throw-in only applies to fouls committed by the offense. The
It’s important for Markus Laka, El Paso, Texas, and his crewmates to remember that while team control exists during a throw-in, it is solely for the purpose of fouls committed by the offense.
three-second and backcourt violation rules are not in effect when a team is in control of the ball for a throwin. Once the throw-in ends, team control is established when player control is gained on the court.” This clarification is buffeted by two additional notes in the rules related to three seconds (9-7-1 Note) and backcourt (9-9-3 Note) that reinforce that language.
Similar rule language has previously been in place in both NCAA rulebooks for team control on throw-ins as it relates to three seconds (NCAAM/W 9-9-2a) and backcourt (NCAAM 9-12-6; NCAAW 9-12-7).
Let’s look at a few plays that could very easily surface in a game at any of the three levels and how they should be handled by rule.
Play 1: Team B knocks the ball out of bounds in its backcourt. Team A is awarded a designated-spot throw-in at the frontcourt location
where the ball went out of bounds. After the trail official bounces the ball to A1 for the throw-in, A2, who is also in the frontcourt, uses two hands to push off B3 in an attempt to get open for the throw-in pass. Team B is in the bonus. Ruling 1: This is a foul committed by the offense during a throw-in. Because the ball was at team A’s disposal, it is a team-control foul (NFHS, NCAAM) or offensive foul (NCAAW). Team B will receive a backcourt throw-in at the designated spot closest to where A2’s foul occurred.
Play 2: Team A has the ball for a throw-in on its endline. As soon as the ball is placed at the disposal of A1 to begin the throw-in, A2 steps into the free-throw lane to try to secure position to receive the pass. The lead official is at four on the throw-in count and A2 has still not left the free-throw lane. The lead official blows a whistle and rules a three-second violation on A2. Ruling 2: This is an incorrect ruling. While team A is in control of the ball, there are no three-second restrictions during a throw-in. If another official
on the crew recognizes the error, an inadvertent whistle should be ruled and team A awarded another throwin at the same throw-in spot.
Play 3: Team A has the ball for a designated-spot throw-in on the sideline in team A’s (a) backcourt, or (b) frontcourt. A1’s throw-in is first touched by A2 in the frontcourt but is not caught cleanly. The ball bounces off A2’s hands and goes into the backcourt, where A1 recovers it after having moved onto the playing court following the throw-in. Ruling 3: This is a legal play in both (a) and (b). While team A has control during the throwin and the throw-in ends as soon as A1 legally touches the ball on the playing court, there is no team control until a team is in possession of the ball following the completion of the throw-in. Therefore, team control is established when A1 recovers the loose ball, and A1 may legally do so in the backcourt.
And finally, one last wrinkle to consider:
Play 4: Team A has the ball for a frontcourt designated-spot throwin on the sideline. The throw-in is touched by B1 and knocked airborne toward the division line. A2 jumps from the frontcourt and, while airborne, secures possession of the ball, then lands with one foot on the division line. Ruling 4: This is a backcourt violation in both NFHS and NCAAW. The throw-in ends as soon as the ball is touched by B1. However, a new team control is established when A2 possesses the ball, and this happens with A2 leaving the playing court from the frontcourt. Therefore, when A2 lands on the division line, A2 is now touching the ball in the backcourt, creating a last-to-touch/first-totouch situation and a violation. In NCAAM, this is a legal play as B1’s deflection caused the ball to go into team A’s backcourt, allowing A1 to be the first to touch the ball in the backcourt.
Scott Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee . He officiates women’s college and high school basketball, college and high school baseball, and high school football.
Setting the Tone
By Matt Ciciarelli
Somuch time is spent teaching young officials about rules knowledge, game management, proper mechanics, court coverage and the like. Heck, there are some clinics that hold breakout sessions to emphasize how to run properly. But teaching the nuances of another important part of the game is often overlooked: the pregame meeting with captains.
There are many philosophies of how to handle the meeting, all of which have merit. And while there may not be one “proper” framework for it, it’s important to know the meeting itself is more than a mere formality. It’s a chance for officials to set the tone for how they plan to run the game and communicate important information about the game, the gym, floor markings, etc. In some cases, the meeting will be brief, and in some games, it deserves a more detailed tact. But what should be addressed and what is the best way to communicate those important points?
Overall, officials should walk the fine line of being personable and commanding, without being robotic or stern — all while being efficient. Greet each player as they gather for the meeting. Tell them your name. Ask them their name and give them a handshake or fist bump to break the ice. If the game is early in the season, don’t be afraid to “welcome” them to a new season and to wish them luck. Conversely, if it’s a playoff game, congratulate them on making it as far as they have and reiterate that the crew understands what’s at stake — that one of the teams’ seasons will end after this game.
According to the NFHS, more than half of state associations require officials to hold a pregame meeting with either coaches, captains, administrators or a combination thereof. Several associations take the extra step to standardize the message of the meeting, adding an emphasis
on respect and good sportsmanship. For instance, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) mandates the head coach (not an assistant coach or another delegate) attend the meeting with the captains, and the lead official on the game must read the following statement verbatim:
“PIAA requires all registered sports officials to enforce the sportsmanship rules for coaches and contestants. Actions meant to demean opposing contestants, teams, spectators and officials are not in the highest ideals of interscholastic education and will not be tolerated. Let today’s contest reflect mutual respect. Coaches, please certify to the contest official(s) that your contestants are legally equipped and uniformed according to NFHS rules and PIAA adoptions. Good luck in today’s contest.”
While it may not be the most eloquent statement ever written, it does serve multiple purposes. First, it acts as a de facto warning to players and coaches. Second, by acknowledging that their teams are properly equipped, it shifts any concerns around liability away from the officials if either team violates rules pertaining to uniforms/equipment requirements or restrictions (see 2-4-5, 3-4 and 3-5). Once the statement is read, it’s up to the captains and coaches to relay its content and meaning to teammates. Respect is a two-way street. While using this time to demand respect from the players and coaches, officials can also show respect during the meeting. Be sure to make eye contact with everyone in attendance. It’s something officials would want if they were in the players’ shoes. Additionally, using “we” statements instead of “you” statements can set the expectation that the officials and both teams are going to work together on this night. It also avoids any interpretation of singling out players or teams. Consider these examples of “we” statements:
“We are going to have a great game tonight.”
“We know this is an important game for both teams.”
“This game deserves our best effort, and we are going treat it that way.”
“We are going to work hard tonight. And we know you are going to play hard.”
One of the great things about interscholastic sports is that they teach teenagers to lead others, control their emotions and, at times, be a picture of calmness their teammates need in a tense moment. The captains are the leaders their teammates have elected to represent them in this meeting. Any interaction throughout the game should reflect the officials’ recognition of that status. During the pregame meeting is a great time to
remind the captains that this will be acknowledged through the officials’ respect for the players, and similar respect should be reciprocated:
“You are here because you are the leaders of your teams. Your teammates look up to you. If we are asking you a question or talking to you, we’re trying to make this game better. We will always approach you respectfully. We expect the same in return.”
Like anyone else, officials enjoy reliving the glory days of their own high school experience. On nights when two rival teams are about to battle or if the game is being played in a packed gym with a raucous atmosphere, take the opportunity to acknowledge it to the players. Suggest to them that they look around and take it all in. Who knows
… years from now, when they reminisce about their high school basketball career, the official’s advice to commit the experience to memory may be what triggers a smile or pleasant conversation with a former teammate.
There are formalities that need to be satisfied in the pregame captains’ meeting. However, don’t lose sight of it as a chance to break the ice, relate to the players and make it unique to you. Express the importance of giving and receiving respect, acknowledge their status as a team leader, and above all else, be sure to come across as someone who is there to do a job and recognizes that the players themselves have a job to do as well.
Matt Ciciarelli, Hatboro, Pa., is a high school and college basketball official.
An efficient pregame meeting with the captains includes respectful dialogue with the players and clearly relaying the expectations for that night’s contest. From left, Jason Rosen, Sherman Oaks, Calif.; Joseph Rogers, Fontana, Calif.; and Mychal Creer, View Park, Calif.
BY DAN RONAN
JAMES ‘GUCCI’ WILLIAMS’ JOURNEY ON AND OFF THE COURT IS REMARKABLE AND WHERE HE MAY BE GOING IN HIS NEXT CAREER IS WHAT MAKES HIS STORY SO COMPELLING.
“Gucci.” The very word bespeaks luxury and the highest quality.
Gucci Mane is also the professional name of rapper and record executive Radric Delantic Davis, who is credited with creating the hip-hop subgenre known as “trap music.”
So, how did ”Gucci” become the nickname of NBA referee James Williams who, at age 45 and with 15 years in the league, is already a crew chief, has officiated more than 820 regularseason games, 70 playoff games, two All-Star Games and four in the NBA Finals?
Williams’ officiating success is even more remarkable when you consider he officiated his first college game at age 22, just months after graduating with honors from Purdue University, and was in the NBA in less than 10 years, after five years in the powerful Southeastern Conference (SEC).
“I had nothing to do with the name,” Williams explained. “I was working a game in Phoenix several years ago, and someone put it on social media that I looked like Gucci Mane the rapper, and it just took off,” Williams said. “Now everyone calls me ‘Gucci.’”
There is a more - thanpassing resemblance between the two men and Williams has embraced the name.
“I love the name. I think it’s funny and it’s part of what humanizes us as referees. A lot of people think referees are robots out there, that we don’t have any personality, we never smile, we’re just doing our job,” Williams said. “I have embraced it and 80% of the NBA players call me Gucci. ”
But it’s how Williams got to the highest level in basketball, and where he may
His
be going in other arenas in his adopted hometown of Chicago, that makes his story so compelling. After he retires, in maybe 10 years, he plans to be a social media entrepreneur and a government and community service leader.
Williams’ first minutes on earth were almost his last. His childhood was challenging. His mother, Teresa McMillon, endured a very tough pregnancy and Williams nearly died moments after he was born.
“They said I was stillborn, and the doctors and the good L ord worked their magic and I am here today,” he said. He credits his early childhood with forming his outgoing personality his friends say is a combination of high intelligence, determination and empathy. “The fact that I am here, it’s a miracle.”
“He was always smart, determined and once he set his mind to something he
was going to do it,” McMillon said. “We struggled. Sometimes I worked two jobs. But we’ve made it.”
“Until I was 9 , we lived in a two-bedroom trailer on a dirt road in Marianna, Ark.,” Williams said. “The town had two stoplights . It was a small town, and we lived there until we moved to LaPorte, Ind.”
Staying in Arkansas was not an option. His mother, father and two siblings, a brother and sister, were seeking more economic opportunities and the transition from rural Arkansas to the larger, more urban climes of Northwest Indiana, about an hour from Chicago, was life-changing. It was an uneasy move, at least in the early days.
“At first, I was not pleased we were moving to Indiana,” Williams said. “I was in the fourth grade. My mom took me to the school and I was terrified, and the principal was trying to reassure me. I was frozen in the doorway, and I was scared out of my boots .
“Then, at the first recess, a classmate, Jacob Christner, asked me if I wanted to play football. He reached out to me and said, ‘We’re here if you
striking resemblence to rapper Gucci Mane has left James Williams taking on somewhat of an additional persona in the NBA community.
THAT’S GUCCI
want to play.’ Thirty-six years later, I still remember it.”
That moment of another person showing compassion to a stranger, being kind and a friend to the new kid in the class, struck Williams and he carries with him that moment of empathy and it drives him today.
“I’ve always been a proponent of social issues. That is part of my genetic makeup. I am very passionate about that, giving back, being of service to others and lifting people up,” he said. “It just resonates with me.”
Almost by accident while at Purdue on a pre-law track, Williams began his officiating career. Like many college students, he began refereeing intr a mural basketball games to help pay the bills and occasionally order a pizza. In 1997, at age 18, at $6 a game, that seemed like a lot of money for a person struggling financially.
“I was the first person in my family to go to college and to graduate. We didn’t have a lot of money. I had a lot of
Right: Teresa McMillon delivered James after a difficult pregnancy. Below: Nothing is more important to Williams than family, pictured here at a reunion in 2024.
loans. I had to get a job to get some spending money,” he explained. “I saw a flyer for referees. It sounded like fun, and it was paying a lot more than the minimum wage.”
But it wasn’t so easy. He went through the university’s rudimentary training program and officiated a few games with no problems. It seemed easy. So far, so good. Then in his fourth game, there was a brawl. Williams had second thoughts, and he had a decision to make.
“There was an all-out fight, and I walked back to my dorm saying there is no way I am going to do this for $6 a game. No way. But I had another game the very next day and I kept going back and forth. Am I going to do this or am I going to quit? I decided to do it, and that night, I thought to myself, I like this,” Williams recalled. “So, I did it all four years at Purdue. It takes a lot of intestinal fortitude to put aside the fans and the
players yelling at you, and just do your job.”
In the rough - and - tumble intr a mural league, Williams was learning the craft of officiating and managing the players and coaches. At the same time he was excelling academically at one of the most rigorous universities in the count r y. He graduated from Purdue with honors and earned a bachelor’s degree in pre-law and a minor in history. Out of 6,500 liberal arts students in 2001, he was one of only 12 students to be recognized for their stellar academic achievements. But on the night of the awards banquet, he had another commitment.
“That night I chose basketball officiating. There
COURTESY OF JAMES WILLIAMS
was a basketball tournament, and I was starting to get some success with better assignments,” he said. “I got the award, and I still have it in my office. I got it after I got back on campus.”
It should come as no surprise that just a few weeks later Williams faced another critical decision. His academic hard work had paid off. His Law School Admission Test score was high enough to allow him to get into his top three choices of prestigious law schools: Georgetown, Michigan and Indiana. Should he head to law school or pursue a career as a college — and hopefully eventually a professional — basketball referee?
While at Purdue, Williams learned John Guthrie, then the SEC coordinator of men’s basketball officials, was looking to add officials to the SEC and the Atlantic Sun, Big South and Ohio Valley conferences he also oversaw. Williams had caught the attention of one of basketball officiating’s most important judges of talent who could greatly influence his career.
James Williams juggled officiating SEC men’s basketball, D-League and the WNBA before being hired into the NBA in 2010.
“My thinking was, if I do not do well in basketball, I can always go back to law school. This was a window of opportunity for basketball, and I could go back and further my education. I decided to give it a couple of years and see how it went,” he said.
“I didn’t see basketball coming. He always wanted to be a lawyer,” McMillon said. “But we supported him.”
“He called me one day and said he and his parents had a spirited conversation about taking a year off, and they decided he could take a year to become a college/NBA referee, but if it didn’t work out, he would go back to Georgetown Law School,” veteran SEC official and longtime friend Chuck Jones said. “We’re
talking Georgetown Law School. That’s right up there with Harvard Law School.”
“Guthrie created this behemoth of an officiating program, and you worked your way up and when he thought you were ready to take the leap, he would put you in a league that was a little higher, with the ultimate goal of getting into the SEC,” Williams said. “He taught referees how to referee.”
“He wants to be Mayor of Chicago someday, and I told him to go for it.”
WILLIAMS’ MOM, TERESA McMILLON
Jones has served as a mentor to Williams and he talked with him about coming to Atlanta and beginning his officiating journey.
referees camp at Purdue University and I was drawn to him by his talent. He told me his goals. He wanted to be an NBA referee, and I told him the guy who could get him there would be John Guthrie ”
“Guthrie’s legacy is the high number of college referees who were and are now in the NBA. James is driven and he had a plan,” Jones added . “It takes conviction to fight for what you want.”
Unlike most referees who aspire to reach a higher level, Williams had never officiated a high school basketball game. Instead, he went directly from intr a mural basketball, officiating games being played by his classmates, to junior college, NAIA and N C AA Division II and Division III basketball in the Southeast, and he set his sights on the SEC.
“Guthrie had a system, like baseball umpiring to move umpires up the ranks, just like minor league baseball , ” Jones said. “I met James at a basketball
“I graduated from Purdue in May 2001. Then there was September 11, and I moved to Atlanta the next month and the season was about to begin,” Williams said. “I packed up my 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix and I had about $200 in cash. I had no idea how to get down there. I had an atlas. There was no Waze. I remember vividly that I worked my first college game at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta,” he said. “I was 22. The game was going 100 miles per hour. I had a lot to learn, and I made a lot of mistakes, but John Guthrie wanted you to grow and learn. He threw you right into the fire. It was sink or
THAT’S GUCCI
swim and you found out what you were made of. It took me five years to get into the SEC, so I was not an overnight success.”
During basketball season Williams was officiating almost every night and juggling a fulltime job but still managing to be very successful at both.
“You have to find a job that gives you flexibility. That allows you to leave early and sometimes when you have to referee, to not come in at all, if you have bigger ambitions,” he said. “I was a sales rep for Office Depot, trying to get companies to purchase office supplies. It gave me the flexibility and I worked and scheduled my games around my work schedule. I was there five years and in my second year, I was awarded the Chairman’s Circle Award, as one of the top salespersons in the nation.”
At 27, he was hired by the SEC and for two seasons worked nearly year-round, with Division I college basketball and what was then known as the D -League in the fall and winter and the WNBA in the spring and summer. In 2010, he was hired into the NBA at age 30. He had made the long climb from college
intramural basketball to help pay his bills to the highest level of the game in 10 years.
“You can’t get too high or too low at this game, because it can humble you,” he said. He recalled a period early in his NBA career when he lost confidence in his abilities, after missing a critical call late in the fourth quarter that impacted the outcome of the game.
reached the (collegiate) pinnacle and he’s been to the NBA Finals several times. He’s at the top of his game. He’s hit almost every goal, maybe the next one is to be the crew chief for a Game 7 .”
James
Williams and retired NBA referee (now VP of Referee operations and Replay Center Principal) Kane Fitzgerald are co-founders of RefMasters.
“There are so many peaks and valleys along the way. I was having a lot of struggles making decisions, especially at the ends of games,” he said. “We got back into the locker room and I took the NBA tag off my bag and tossed it into the trash can, because I felt I did not deserve to be an NBA referee. It was the lowest of the low and it reminded me the job is hard and you’re going to make mistakes and you have to overcome the mistakes, the failures and turn them into success.”
“James is a very good referee. He’s been to the NBA Finals four times,” Jones said. “If you reach the NCAA Tournament, you’ve
To help other referees and umpires climb the ladder in several sports, including basketball, baseball and football, Williams and several others created a new application called Ref M asters. It’s aimed not only at officials, but coaches, parents and fans. Ref M asters offers rule interpretation and mechanics information, and provides explanations to the general public about how officials make their decisions.
“If you want to learn to speak French, there’s an app for that. If you want to learn to play the piano, there’s an app for that, so why not an app to help people learn to officiate?”
Williams said , explaining how he and Kane Fitzgerald, a retired NBA referee and now vice president of referee operations, developed the app, which is updated several times daily.
“You’re only in this job for so long. It’s about the game and we need to improve,”
Williams said. “We are trying to knock down the barriers to get into officiating and this is a way to do that. This is an opportunity to help others who are on the platform learn and make their foundation stronger. This is training that will help them get better. We have to work as hard as the players and the coaches and part of it is good training.”
Williams is looking very closely at where he wants to go with his life after the NBA. Seven years ago, he relocated from Atlanta to Chicago, in part to be closer to his family in Indiana, about an hour’s drive away. But he is beginning to lay the groundwork for his next career, casting an eye toward running for elected office. He even might seek the mayor’s office in Chicago, the one once occupied by larger-than-life figures including Richard J. Daley, Jane Byrne and Harold Washington.
“You’ve got to get to know people and they need to get to know you,” he said. “I am planning, once my officiating career is over, to get into politics and learn it. It’s a whole new game. They need to know where you stand on the issues, and I will be pursuing this. I am developing relationships with people in Chicago and learning how to go about doing this. I am reaching out to Judge Timothy Wright, who worked with Mayor Washington, the first AfricanAmerican mayor of Chicago. I have met several times with former education secretary Arne Duncan, who was in the Obama Administration and was CEO of the Chicago Public School system.”
Above: Williams and crewmates (from left) Ben Taylor, Bill Kennedy and Scott Foster join Commissioner Adam Silver during the 2023 NBA Finals. Right: Williams with nephews Antwone and Antonio prior to game 4 of the 2024 NBA Finals between the Celtics and Mavericks at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
“He wants to be mayor of Chicago someday, and I told him to go for it,” his mother said. “It’s nothing but ‘up’ for James. James is a go-getter. He’s going to get there, and I pray that I am around to see it happen.”
Williams has also developed a friendship with firebrand Chicago Catholic priest/social activist Fr. Michal Pfleger, who has been the pastor of Saint Sabina’s since 1981. The legendary parish is on the South Side in the predominantly African-American Gresham neighborhood. Pfleger has led the parish for 43 years and he notes it’s only a 20-minute drive from some of Chicago’s most prosperous neighborhoods, the Gold Coast and the near West Side, home to the United Center and also a community undergoing a multi-billion dollar renovation.
Pfleger says Williams is more comfortable talking to some of Chicago’s poorest, instead of rubbing elbows with the city’s elite, and that’s what will make him a great leader and potentially an elected official.
“People need to know where you stand on the issues, what your positions are,” Williams said. “I want to help people who do not have a seat at the table, and advocate for those people who do not have voices. I know what it’s like to grow up without a lot, if your water is going to be shut off, or where your next meal is coming from.”
“James is an amazing man who has never lost his heart for people. He comes by a lot. We have community basketball games, and he officiates the games. But he stays and he talks to the young men, one on one,” Pfleger said. “One of my gripes has been, a lot of people who have made it, they disappear from the community, but James isn’t like that. He is here. He puts in the time. He shows up. He is consistent and he is a role model for what everybody in sports and entertainment should do. He is always there to help. Two days after last NBA season ended, he called me up and asked, ‘What can I do to help?’”
“I think the door is open for James. I think what’s more important is the determination to push it open and walk through it. That’s what’s needed,” Pfleger said. “He knows his shelf life as an NBA referee is limited. It’s all about thinking about what’s next and he’s been very clear, he wants to make a difference and whatever road he takes, he is going to do something to help make a difference to Chicago. He really cares about the community, neighborhoods, young people and that’s who he is. He is showing us who he is. It’s part of his DNA.”
Dan Ronan is a Washingtonbased journalist and a former NCAA Division I baseball umpire and small - college and high school basketball referee.
A SECOND OPINION NCAA Tweaks U3 Mechanics When Rotated
By Erin Peterson
The Softball Umpire Program (SUP) for NCAA softball has approved several mechanics changes for the 2025 softball season. These changes are designed to put the calling umpire in a better position to fulfill responsibilities and allow umpires to adjust as necessary.
The most significant change deals with the positioning of U3 when rotated, but the committee also tweaked several other mechanics and updated some philosophies to assist umpires and improve the flow of the game. Here is a breakdown of each of the changes.
Starting Position of U3 Rotated
The SUP is narrowing the starting position of U3 when rotated to approximately the 45-degree area off of the infield side point of second base, with a new starting depth of 6-12 feet, as shown in MechaniGram A on the next page. This adjustment will enable U3 to quickly shift right or left to obtain a primary position
The NCAA tweaked several mechanics for the upcoming 2025 season. The starting position of U3 when rotated is a major change as well as updating umpire movement to cover dynamic plays. Here, Chris Nabors, Nashville, Tenn., moves to the best position to keep all the elements in front of him while covering second base, realizing the primary position is not an “x” on the field.
for plays at second base, without overcommitting to the first- or third-base side when transitioning to a secondary responsibility. The previous wider starting position has led to difficulties for umpires adjusting to plays and overcommitting to their next potential responsibility.
It is still imperative that U3 remains vigilant to the positions of the center fielder and the middle infielders when choosing a starting position. Before getting set, U3 should check the position of fielders and adjust as necessary. Any adjustments needed to gain a clear view of home plate or to avoid defenders should be minor. A general guide is to stay within the width of the catcher’s box.
Umpire Movement
When umpires are moving to a primary position from their starting position or to cover a different base or home plate, they should ensure the ball is not behind them and their primary position is open to the throwing lane. It is
QUICKTIP
Some schools and locations will reserve spots for umpires. While the school may mean well to reserve parking for you, it also means you are easily identifiable. If you arrive at a school and there are cones or signs that say, “Umpire parking,” either move the cones to another location or simply park in another location. Do not allow your vehicle to be easily identifiable by upset fans during or after the game.
THEY SAID IT
“I have a network of like-minded brothers and sisters all over the country. All of us are striving to make the game of softball better by calling a fair game. We continually bounce ideas off of each other and hold each other accountable to be professional and ensure the highest standards in our work. I have to perform at my best, just like a player. My team has changed, but I’m on the field and I still get to play.”
– Rachel Palmer, Minnesota State High School League softball umpire, on why she umpires.
SOURCE: NFHS WHAT’S MY WHY
TOOLS
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TEST YOURSELF
Each of the following includes a situation and possible answer(s). Decide which are correct for USA, NFHS, NCAA or USSSA rules and which might vary. Solutions: p. 81
1. Team A’s coach hands the lineup card to the umpire at the plate meeting and only 10 players are listed on the card. In the third inning, an 11th player arrives to the field and team A’s coach wants to add that substitute to the lineup card.
a. The substitute may not be added to the lineup card and is ineligible to play in the game.
b. The substitute is added to the lineup card without penalty and is eligible to play.
c. The substitute is added to the lineup card, but team A’s coach is given a warning.
2. Which of these statements about infield fly situations is incorrect?
a. It may be called if a bunt goes high in the air.
b. The ball is live if a fielder intentionally drops it.
c. An infield fly should be called if a catcher is able to catch the ball with ordinary effort.
d. An infield fly may be called if an outfielder settles under a fly ball in the infield that could have been caught by an infielder with ordinary effort.
3. Which of the following are considered appeal plays:
a. R1 is doubled off first base after F6 catches a line drive and throws to F3 on first base before R1 returns.
b. R3 slides by the plate without touching it and F2 immediately dives and tags R3.
c. After overrunning first base and taking two steps toward second base R1 is tagged before returning to first base.
d. F2 asks the plate umpire to check with the base umpire regarding B1’s checked swing.
4. With no runners on and no outs, B1, with a 1-1 count, swings and hits a ball that nicks off F2’s glove, then strikes F2’s helmet and then deflects forward into fair territory where it is caught in flight by F1.
a. B1 is ruled out on the catch by F1.
b. Foul tip, B1 remains at bat with a 1-2 count.
c. Foul ball, the ball is dead and B1 remains at bat with a 1-2 count.
important to remember a primary position is not an “x.” Umpires must take all elements of the play into consideration to determine the best position to see the play develop and rule on it.
For the plate umpire covering third base, this may be in fair or foul territory. For U3 moving across the infield to second, this may be on the infield or outfield side of second base. Both of these scenarios are shown in MechaniGram B. The most important part is being in a position to see the ball, base, defender and runner.
Time Between Innings
To ensure that both the offense and defense receive the full 90 seconds between innings, the following protocol should be followed: Base umpire(s) should break from the field toward their starting positions with 30 seconds remaining. The umpire responsible for tracking the 90 seconds should wait in fair territory until either the time has expired or both teams are ready to play. This adjustment will
help prevent the home plate umpire from starting the pitch clock before the 90 seconds have elapsed unless both teams are ready to play.
U1 Set Position When Counter Rotated
When first-base umpires are starting between first and second base, they may be slightly turned to any base for which they have runner leaving early responsibility. This slight adjustment will enhance their ability to observe the runner and the pitch release.
Focus and Emphasis on Consistency of Signals
The SUP has noted too many variations in approved umpire signals over the past few seasons. In 2025, there will be a renewed emphasis on using the signals as depicted in the official CCA manual. Umpires are encouraged to review the manual and make any necessary adjustments to their signals in order to provide accuracy and consistency and to avoid confusion.
Option Play for Time Between Pitches Violation
With a new rule change for the upcoming season that makes a pitcher violating the time between pitches rule a delayed dead ball instead of an immediate dead ball, the SUP changed the administration of the option play. The calling umpire for the time between pitches violation on the pitcher will signal a delayed dead ball (as shown in the PlayPic). If the result of the play is not a ball on the batter, the calling umpire will announce the violation and communicate with the offensive head coach and present any options. If there are multiple violations on the same play, umpires should administrate option plays as they have in the past. It is always important for umpires to get together and discuss when there are multiple options on a play and the outcomes can get confusing. Erin Peterson, Seattle, is an NCAA umpire and has worked three NCAA
Women’s College World Series. She is a USA Elite umpire and is a member of the mechanics committee for the CCA Manual.
CASEPLAYS
Look-Back Rule
Play: B1 beats out an infield single and overruns first base. F3 tosses the ball to F1, who is standing inside the pitcher’s circle. B1 turns right and starts slowly walking back toward first. Right before touching first base, B1 realizes there is no one covering second and turns and runs to second, without touching first. B1 arrives safely at second base. Ruling: In NFHS, USA Softball and USSSA, the ball is dead and B1 is ruled out for violating the look-back rule. In those codes, once overrunning first base and the ball is in the circle, the batter may not walk back toward first base (committing B1 to first base) and then decide to run toward second base. In NFHS, a runner also may not turn to the right and then go to second base when the ball is in the circle (NFHS 8-7e; USA Softball R/S 34G; USSSA 8-2). In NCAA, this is a legal play. A runner may overrun first base and then attempt to run to second base, provided the runner does not retouch first base (12.16.3.4, 12.16.3.5).
Infield Fly Becomes Blocked Play: R2 is on second base and R1 is on first with no outs when B3 hits a declared infield fly. The ball deflects off F5’s glove in fair territory and ricochets under a field fence. Ruling: B3 is out on the infield fly, R2 is awarded home and R1 is awarded third base. Because it was a declared infield fly and the ball was fair when touched, B3 is out, even though F5 didn’t make the catch. However, the ball remains live until it becomes blocked by going out of play. At that moment, the ball becomes dead and each baserunner is awarded two bases for a fair batted ball that becomes blocked (NFHS 2-29, 8-4-3g Pen.; NCAA 11.16 Eff., 12.12.3.4 Eff.; USA Softball 1-Infield Fly, 8-5I-2 Eff.; USSSA 3-Infield Fly, 8-14C-1).
Give ’Em the Option
By Brad Tittrington
Umpires have a lot of rules and mechanics to remember when they take the field. Some of those rules and mechanics are pretty basic. Others, however, can be a little more tricky. One such rule that can sometimes cause confusion deals with option plays.
In NFHS, USA Softball and USSSA games, option plays don’t occur quite as often as they do in the collegiate game, mostly because the NCAA has a lot more instances of a delayed dead ball that creates more scenarios for option plays. Let’s first stick with the other three codes and then dive into the NCAA rules with some more interesting option plays.
In NFHS, USA Softball and USSSA games, the main two instances of option plays occur because of an illegal pitch or because of catcher’s obstruction. When either of these two occur, umpires should signal delayed dead ball and let the play continue. Then depending on what occurs, the umpires may have to give an option to the offended team. NCAA rules on an illegal pitch also apply here.
For an illegal pitch, if the batter reaches first base safely and each other runner advances at least one base, the illegal pitch is nullified, all action stands and the coach is not given an option. However, if the batter does not reach first base safely or if any baserunner fails to advance at least one base, the umpires should ask the offended coach if they would like to take the result of the play or take the penalty for the illegal pitch, which is a ball added to the batter’s count (NFHS 6-1-1 Pen. Exc., NCAA 10.8 Eff.; USA Softball 6A-11B; USSSA 6-3). If the illegal pitch hits the batter out of the strike zone or if the illegal pitch is ball four, the batter is awarded first base and runners only advance if forced. Coaches are not given an option in these two scenarios. Sounds simple enough, but here are a couple of plays that could trip up some umpires.
Play 1: With R1 on first and no outs, F1 delivers an illegal pitch. B2 hits
the pitch into the gap in right center and advances to second base. R1 is thrown out trying to reach home plate. Ruling 1: The play stands. Since B2 safely reached at least first base and R1 advanced one base once she reached second, the illegal pitch is nullified and the result of the play stands.
Play 2: With R1 on first and no outs, F1 delivers an illegal pitch. B2 hits the pitch into the gap in right center and advances to second base. R1 advances safely to third base. As the ball is relayed into the infield, the defense throws the ball to first base, F3 has the ball and stands on first base and correctly appeals B2 missed first base. Ruling 2: Even though B2 missed first base and is called out for missing the bag, B2 is considered to have reached it safely once she passed first base. Therefore, B2 is ruled out, R1 remains at third base and the coach is not given an option.
Play 3: With R3 on third base and one out, F1 delivers an illegal pitch. B3 hits a grounder to second base. F4 fields the ball and throws to first base to retire B3. R3 scores. Ruling 3: In this situation, the offensive coach should be given the option to choose the result of the play or take the effect for the illegal pitch. If the coach takes the illegal pitch, R3 is returned to third base and B3 is returned to the plate with a ball added to her count. The coach may want to take the result of the play since a run scored. In these situations, umpires should never assume the coach will take the illegal pitch penalty and the option should be given.
Catcher’s obstruction is handled roughly the same way as an illegal pitch when it comes to option plays, with a small exception. Again, if the batter reaches first base safely and all runners advance at least one base, the obstruction is canceled and all play stands. If those two things don’t happen, the offended coach has the option of taking the result of the play or having the batter awarded first base and all runners advanced one base if forced (NFHS 8-1-1d Eff.; NCAA 9.5.3 Eff.; USA Softball R/S 36; USSSA 8-4E). For purposes of this article, we are
only dealing with catcher’s obstruction when a batter swings and contacts the catcher’s mitt and still makes contact with the ball.
Now, let’s delve into the NCAA rules, where option plays are a little trickier because NCAA rules attempt to keep the ball live in more situations than the other three codes and then allow the offended team an option.
One particular instance of this involves a runner leaving a base before the ball is released by the pitcher. In the other three codes, the ball is dead and the baserunner is ruled out. However, in NCAA, it is a delayed dead ball, the play continues and then at the end of playing action, the defense has the option of taking the result of the play or taking the penalty for leaving early, which is the runner is out, no pitch is declared and all other runners must return to the bases they occupied at the time of the pitch (12.14.2 and Eff.). The following play rulings only apply to the NCAA as the other three codes would not have options involved in these plays.
Play 4: R1 leaves first base before the pitcher releases the pitch in an attempt to steal second. B2 hits a line drive to first base that is caught by F3, who then steps on first base before R1 can return. Ruling 4: The defensive coach has the option of taking the double play or taking the penalty for leaving early. Clearly, in this case, the defensive coach would take the result of the play and ignore the leaving early.
Play 5: With two outs and a 3-2 count on the batter, R1 leaves first early. The pitch is called strike three. Ruling 5: The defensive coach has the option of taking the result of the play (the strikeout) or may enforce the leaving early penalty. A coach may prefer to have the same batter come up to bat to start the next inning and may choose the leaving early option. If the hitter is a good hitter, the coach may elect to take the strikeout. This is why it is important to ask the coach for the option instead of assuming one way or the other.
Things get more interesting when there are multiple options.
Play 6: R1 and R2 both leave early on the pitch in an attempt to
Option plays happen every so often during games. They happen more so in the college game because of rule differences, however. It is important for umpires to understand how these plays work and to calmly and clearly explain the options to coaches in order to get the call right.
do a double steal. B3, a left-handed slap hitter, swings and contacts the pitch but has one foot outside the batter’s box on contact. All runners reach the next base safely. Ruling 6: In this situation, the defensive coach has three options. The first option is to take the result of the play, which wouldn’t happen in this situation. The coach may also choose to take the outs on both runners leaving early. If that is the case, then no pitch is declared and B3 would remain at bat with the same count. The final option would be to ignore the leaving early by both runners and instead take the illegally batted ball penalty, which would result in both runners returning to their respective bases at the time of the pitch and a strike added to B3’s count. If B3 had two strikes, this would make it the third strike and B3 would be out. Depending on how many outs there are the strength of the batter, the defensive coach may take this option. The coach may not enforce both the leaving early penalties and the illegally batted ball penalties and only has the option to enforce one of those.
In the previous play, imagine if B3 hit a line drive that resulted in a triple play. The defensive coach could elect to ignore the leaving early by the baserunners and the illegally batted ball and take the result of the play.
Here is a play that could happen that would give both teams an option. Play 7: With R2 on second base,
a 1-1 count on the batter and one out, the pitcher delivers an illegal pitch and R2 leaves early before the ball was released. B3 lines out to the second baseman who steps on second base for the double play. Ruling 7: The umpires first go to the offensive head coach and give the option of taking the illegal pitch or the result of the play. The coach will obviously choose the illegal pitch, which would negate B3’s lineout and put R2 back on second base and add a ball to the batter’s count, making it 2-1. Then the umpires go to the defensive coach and ask the defense if they’d like to take the result of the play (which is now an illegal pitch, because that was the offense’s choice) or take the penalty for leaving early (R2 is out, no pitch is declared and B3 returns to bat with a 1-1 count). The defensive coach would clearly choose the leaving early penalty.
As you can see, it is important for umpires who work multiple levels to understand the difference in rule codes and when to keep plays live as opposed to immediate dead balls. It is also important to understand all the options involved and how to execute them correctly. Otherwise, umpires could easily have a protest on their hands.
Brad Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He umpires D-I softball and officiates high school basketball, college and high school volleyball and high school football.
Scott Kahn, Huntington Beach, Calif.
MAGIC TOUCH? Rules Regarding a Punt Touched Downfield
By Judson Howard
When I was a deep official, my crewmates used to jokingly remind me to wake up when there was a punt. Then I hoped the punt was blocked. Punt plays can be challenging given some unusual events that can happen.
Challenging situations arise when a punted ball is on the ground beyond the neutral zone. Among the questions an official may have to answer are: Who first contacted the loose ball? Is anyone forced into touching the loose ball? What can
happen after either team touches the loose ball? Not to mention what happens during legal or illegal advances after a grounded punt is touched and how to sort things out if there is a foul during the down.
The definitions of first (NFHS 6-25) and illegal touching (NCAA 6-3-2) of a punt contain slightly different wording for the same incident. In general, no team K player shall touch a punt that crosses and remains beyond the neutral zone before it touches a team R player. That is not a foul, but a violation by the kicking team. First or illegal touching does
not cause the down to end. Play continues until the ball is dead by rule. A beanbag should mark the spot of the touching. For this article, we will use the term first touching for both rule codes.
When team K is guilty of first touching, team R may take the ball at the spot of first touching, or any spot if there is more than one spot of first touching, or may choose to have the ball put in play as determined by the result of the play.
The right of team R to take the ball at the spot of first touching is canceled if team R touches the kick
6-2-4; NCAA 6-3-4b).
Play 1: A grounded punt is rolling beyond the neutral zone at team R’s 20 yardline. K1 legally bats the ball and it glances off R2’s leg. R3 recovers the loose ball and (a) runs 20 yards before being downed, or (b) advances but fumbles with K4 recovering. Ruling 1: In (a), team R will choose the result of the play. In (b) the forced touching is disregarded. Team R will start a new series at its 20 yardline, the spot of K1’s touching.
Ignore touching if it is caused by a player who pushes or blocks an opponent into the ball (NFHS 6-2-4; NCAA 6-3-4a).
Play 2: K1 blocks R2, causing him to touch the grounded punted ball. The ball is still loose when (a) K3, or (b) R4 recovers at the 50 yardline and advances. Ruling 2: R2’s touching is ignored in all cases. In (a), it is first touching and the ball is declared dead when K3 recovers. Team R will start a new series at the 50 yardline. In (b), the ball remains live. When the ball is dead, team R will have a choice of the result of the play or to take the ball at the spot of first touching.
Play 3: K1 first touches a grounded punt at team R’s 40 yardline. R2 recovers and advances 30 yards but fumbles and K3 recovers.
Ruling 3: Team R will choose to take the ball at the spot of first touching and negate team K’s fumble recovery. It will be team R’s ball at its own 40 yardline.
First touching combined with a foul adds a dimension.
SIDELINE
Ducking the Rule
Oregon coach Dan Lanning admitted the Ducks gained an advantage by intentionally having 12 men on the field late in their Oct. 12 game against Ohio State. Just before the ball was snapped, an Oregon player walked onto the field, giving the Ducks an extra defender. After Ohio State threw an incomplete pass, Oregon was penalized for illegal substitution, but four seconds came off the clock. Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard’s run on the next play used up the remaining time and the Ducks held on for a 32-31 win. The NCAA closed the loophole the following week by issuing a new interpretation for the illegal substitution rule wherein the offended team could choose to reset the game clock to the time remaining prior to the play in certain situations.
SOURCE: ESPN.COM
THEY SAID IT
“It has come to my attention, players are wearing illegal pants which do not adequately cover the knee. This has become a popular trend at the collegiate ... level, however NFHS rules must be enforced as written by officials and teams.”
and thereafter during the down (NFHS) commits a foul or if the penalty is accepted for any foul committed during the down, or (NCAA) there is an accepted penalty for a live-ball foul by either team or there are offsetting fouls.
Such touching is ignored if it is caused by K pushing or blocking R into contact with the ball (NFHS 6-24; NCAA 6-3-4a). Touching is ignored if it is caused by team K either (NFHS) batting or muffing the ball, or (NCAA) batting or illegally kicking the ball into a team R player (NFHS
Play 4: Fourth and 10 at team K’s five yardline. While a punt is in flight, R1 holds K2 at team K’s 20 yardline. K3 first touches the grounded punt at team K’s 35 yardline. R4 recovers the loose ball at team R’s 40 yardline and is downed. Ruling 4: Team K will accept the penalty for R1’s foul, negating team R’s option to take the ball at the spot of first touching. Postscrimmage kick enforcement is used and it will be team R’s ball, first and 10 at the 50 yardline.
Judson Howard, Los Angeles, was an onfield and replay official more than 30 years, many at the NCAA Division I level.
— New York State Public High School Athletic Association Executive Director Dr. Robert Zayas, in an October 2024 memo to section executive directors
SURVEY SAYS ...
Would you support getting rid of the kickoff altogether at all levels of football?
65 %
SOURCE: REFEREE SURVEY OF 171 SUBSCRIBERS
Under NFHS rules, when a scrimmage kick rolls to a complete stop, team K need only touch the ball in order to down it. In NCAA play, the kicking team must possess the ball to down it.
TEST YOURSELF
In each of the following you are given a situation and at least two possible answers. You are to decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS and NCAA rules, which might vary. Note: In kicking situations, K is the kicking team, R the receiving team. Solutions: p. 81.
1. An official’s timeout occurs:
a. When a player appears to be injured.
b. When the runner’s helmet comes off.
c. When either team scores a touchdown.
d. When a first down is declared outside two minutes in the second and fourth quarters.
e. Following a try.
2. Before the ready for play on a try, team K requests that the ball be placed at the left hashmark. The kick is unsuccessful beyond the endline. While the kick is in flight, R1 is flagged for holding. Team K accepts the penalty and requests that the ball be placed in between the hashmarks.
a. The request is granted.
b. The request is denied.
3. When a team consumes time by failing to unpile quickly, the referee should:
a. Stop the clock and enforce a 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct.
b. Stop the clock and enforce a five-yard penalty for delay.
c. Stop the clock but enforce no yardage penalty.
4. Following a safety:
a. Team K may punt the ball.
b. Team K may dropkick the ball.
c. Team K may have a player hold the ball in place on the ground for a placekick.
d. Team K may use a tee for a placekick.
e. All of the above.
5. The clock is running and team A is out of timeouts. A1 runs up to the referee and requests a timeout.
a. The request is granted but team A will be penalized five yards for delay of the game.
b. The request is granted but team A will be penalized 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct.
c. The request is denied.
d. The request is denied and team A will be penalized five yards for delay of game.
e. The request is denied and team A will be penalized 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct.
A Visit to No-Man’s Land
By George Demetriou
It is not very often in life that someone gets what they don’t deserve, but very often players who line up in no-man’s land do not draw a foul and are treated as if they had done what they were supposed to do.
No-man’s land is a somewhat misunderstood concept and part of the reason for that is it is not defined in the rules. One can deduce its existence by studying the definitions of linemen and backs. Without a full understanding of a legal formation, it’s easy to overlook a player who is in an improper position.
In order to be a lineman, a player must either be the snapper or have his head or foot break the plane of a line through the waist of the snapper (NFHS 2-32-9; NCAA 2-274a). He must also have his shoulders approximately parallel to the line of scrimmage; the officiating standard is to allow a 30-degree variation. An upright player who is between the line of scrimmage and the line through the waist of the snapper and has no part of his body breaking the plane of either line is considered to be on the line even though he technically is not complying with the rule.
A legal position as a back requires a player to not have any part of his body breaking the plane through the waist of the nearest teammate who is legally on the line and be behind that line (NFHS 2-32-3; NCAA 2-274d1). A player in position to receive a hand-to-hand snap (the quarterback) is also a back, although he doesn’t have to receive the snap (NFHS 2-323; NCAA 2-27-4d2). If such a player is very close to the snapper and leans forward so his head breaks the plane of the line through the waist of the snapper, it should be ignored.
As seen in the PlayPic, there is an area between the plane of a line through the waist of the snapper and the plane through the waist of the nearest teammate who is legally on the line. That is no-man’s land. No player other than the quarterback can have any part of his body in that
area. If he does, he is in an improper position, making the formation illegal. Such a player is also an ineligible receiver and if he goes more than two (NFHS) or three yards (NCAA) downfield before a legal forward pass which crosses the neutral zone is thrown, he commits a foul for an ineligible receiver downfield (NFHS 7-5-12; NCAA 7-3-10).
The challenge for officials is to decide what to do about minor transgressions and how to distinguish between a minor violation and an egregious one. That is not only a matter of officiating credibility, but an issue of fairness to the defense. Can the defense recognize the eligible receivers and cover them? Some officials dismiss that on the basis prep defenses are not sophisticated enough to recognize subtle differences in offensive formations, but that is a dangerous proposition and is highly discouraged.
Nonetheless a popular philosophy is to ignore players in no-man’s land and rule they are where they want to be. That is consistent with the principle of advantage/disadvantage, but similarly it has limitations and cannot be blindly and universally applied. In all cases the coach should be advised of the discrepancies as soon as they are spotted so he has an opportunity for corrections. Sometimes questionable formations can be spotted in pregame warmups. Let’s look at the common variations.
A lineman is slightly behind the line through the waist of the snapper. That is reasonable; it is highly unlikely a bulky player with an ineligible number will be mistaken for an eligible receiver. The risk is by being a step further back, pulling guards may get a starting advantage and pass-blocking tackles may achieve a wider blocking range.
A wide receiver (end) is slightly behind the line through the waist of the snapper. Perhaps that is the simplest positioning error to ignore. The receiver gains no advantage even if he is pressed and has a step added to his route.
A wide receiver (flanker back) is in no-man’s land. It is relatively harmless to consider such a player a back as long there is some separation from the receivers on the line.
A slot back is breaking the plane of the line through the waist of the snapper. He may look like he is farther back and might very well be construed to be a back, but he is legally a lineman and should be treated as such. That won’t make the formation illegal and there will only be a foul if a legal forward pass is thrown beyond the neutral zone. If such a player catches a touchdown pass and is not flagged, there is no excuse.
A slot back is in no-man’s land. A common technique is to treat anyone who is not a lineman as a back. That is a very risky proposition and can have serious consequences (like the touchdown above). The eligible number should tip off the defense, but the rule requires such a player to be clearly in the backfield. That
needs to be managed and cannot be perfunctorily ignored.
Trick plays. When teams run a trick play it is absolutely necessary they be in total compliance with
The El Paso Camp will provide a great springboard for upand-coming o cials to be seen by supervisors and scouts. Register now for some of the best training and advancement opportunities for men and women interested in taking their on-field – and replay – o ciating to the next level. Bringing in a sta of top-caliber NFL and NCAA o cials to observe and provide instant feedback, the sta includes the hiring supervisors of FBS, FCS and other collegiate conferences.
You will work live action, full-contact scrimmages
Video study of your on-field work
all rules. There are no exceptions whatsoever.
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Social time to visit with the sta and your fellow o cials
CASEPLAYS
No Whistle Play: Fourth and 10 from team K’s 25 yardline. R1 muffs a punt on team R’s 40 yardline. K2 recovers the loose ball there and advances to team R’s five yardline, where R3 makes the tackle while grabbing and twisting K2’s facemask. Ruling: The officials erred by not blowing the play dead when K2 recovered the muffed punt. But the mistake does not mitigate K3’s foul. The ball should be brought back to the spot of K2’s recovery (team R’s 40 yardline). The 15-yard facemask penalty should then be enforced as a dead-ball foul. Team K will have the ball, first and 10 from team R’s 25 yardline. The clock starts on the snap (NFHS 3-4-2a, 4-2-2f, 9-4-3h Pen.; NCAA3-3-2d-8, 4-1-3e, 9-1-8 Pen.).
Inadvertent Whistle Play: Fourth and three for team A from its own 27 yardline. A1 scrambles and is at team A’s 31 yardline when he throws a forward pass. While the pass is in flight, the covering official blows his whistle. Ruling: Because A1’s foul for an illegal forward pass is five yards and includes a loss of down, team B will want to accept the penalty, giving it the ball, first and 10 from team A’s 26 yardline. The inadvertent whistle is ignored (NFHS 4-2-3d, 7-5-2b Pen.; NCAA 4-1-2c, 7-3-2a Pen.).
Fumble Follows Fouls Play: Fourth and 10 for team K from its own 20 yardline. At the snap, team K is flagged for an illegal formation. R1 catches the kick on the 50 yardline and advances to team K’s 45 yardline, where his facemask is grabbed and twisted by K2. R1 fumbles and K3 recovers on team K’s 35 yardline. Ruling: Team K is guilty of multiple fouls. Team R will be able to choose which penalty it wishes to accept. The wise choice would be to accept the penalty for K2’s facemask foul. That penalty would be enforced from the end of R1’s run, team K’s 45 yardline, giving team R first and 10 from team K’s 30 yardline (NFHS 2-16-2e, 10-2-4, 10-4-2a, 10-4-9; NCAA 2-30-3, 2-30-4, 10-2-2c-3, 10-2-2d-1c).
Four Dead-Ball Errors
By Jon Bible
Dead-ball
officiating is one of the most important aspects of our job and is a requirement for all officials. Here are the top four mistakes we can make that keep us from achieving it. Focus on the ball. The biggest error is focusing on retrieving the ball (or getting a new one) immediately after a play ends. Especially at lower levels, it’s commonplace to see officials dash in to spot the ball when a runner is downed or quickly turn to get a new one from a ball helper when a pass is thrown out of bounds. Pause for a few seconds to monitor the surroundings and be sure things have settled down before getting a ball. It’s more important to ensure we don’t miss a personal foul or unsportsmanlike act. Relaxing too soon when a play is over. Say a punt goes into the end zone, a receiver makes a fair catch, there’s an incomplete pass or a seemingly innocuous run up the middle. We can let our guard down and miss Tom knocking Joe to the ground several yards away three or four seconds after the play ended. We must keep our head on a swivel until we know things have calmed down and the players are going back where they belong.
Having too many eyes in one place. When a play ends, multiple officials often watch the immediate area around where a runner is tackled or goes out of bounds or a pass falls incomplete. Work as if there’s a set of concentric circles with different officials watching what’s going on in each one.
Say there’s a five-official crew and a stretch play with the runner tackled near the sideline five yards downfield. The wing official should watch the dead-ball action in the circle around the runner and tackler. The next-closest officials — umpire, referee and back judge — should stay a few yards back and monitor action in the larger circle in the field (15-20 yards in diameter) and out of bounds area. The offside wing official should scan the rest of the field. Too often the umpire, referee and back judge join the wing official
so all are looking at the runner and tacklers. It’s a way to miss cheap shots away from the pile. Let one of those go undetected and retaliation is almost certain.
The covering official getting too close to the pile too quickly. That may prevent seeing the forest because of the trees. Watch NFL and college officials and you’ll see them take the hang back, watch and then move in cruise control approach when plays end, except when something is brewing and they must insert themselves between players to stop it.
Use common sense in deciding what dead-ball action is sufficient to draw a flag. Post-play pushing and shoving generally isn’t, but it does warrant a talk-to. Different story if it’s a hard jam instead of a push, a runner is down and a defender dives into him, a player knocks down an opponent away from the play or the runner is forcibly hit after he is clearly out of bounds.
Be careful in the latter situation. Flags have been erroneously thrown when a tackler hits a runner at the sideline and they continue out of bounds and fall down. It can look like the contact was late when it wasn’t. For a flag to be warranted both of the runner’s feet should be out of bounds when the contact is initiated. If there’s contact inbounds and the players go out of bounds, there must be a second act, like a body slam. Runners running north-south down the sideline are fair game because they’re still trying to gain yardage, but not those who have given themselves up and are running east-west.
Often an official farther from the play has a better look than the one close to it. If you’re the other official and know the hit started inbounds, go to the calling official and encourage him or her to pick up the flag (it’s their choice whether to do so). Player safety is important but we don’t want cheap fouls.
Jon Bible is a replay official in the Southeastern Conference. A resident of Austin, Texas, he formerly officiated collegiate and pro football.
Goalline Decisions Galore
Plays involving the goalline and pylon are some of the most pressure-packed in football officiating. This one offers a lot of possibilities.
It is clear the player does not have control of the ball. For the sake of discussion, let’s assume he did previously as he tiptoed the sideline, but the status of the ball at this moment is a fumble.
The airborne player most likely has inbounds status, unless he left the ground with one or both feet out of bounds (NFHS 2-29-1; NCAA 2-27-15).
The player in blue is clearly out of bounds as he is touching the ground outside the sideline. What is unclear by this camera angle is whether or not this player is touching the opponent’s left foot. But don’t be fooled by the so-called electricity theory — the ball is not dead when an out-of-bounds player is touching an opponent (NFHS 2-29-2; NCAA 4-2-2).
If the player in white controlled the ball when it crossed the plane of team B’s goalline, or if he regained control in the endzone and got a body part down inbounds, it’s a touchdown (NFHS 8-2-1a, NCAA 8-2-1a). If team B gained possession or the ball went out of bounds, it is a touchback (NFHS 8-5-3c, NCAA 8-6-1a). In NCAA, if it’s fourth down and a teammate of the fumbling player recovers the ball it is dead and is returned to the spot of the fumble if recovery is in advance or left at the spot of recovery if it is behind (7-2-2a).
1States, Leagues and Associations Take Action for Better Treatment of Officials
The shortage of officials, ranked as Referee’s biggest story the last three years, is an issue that has risen above our list given its magnitude. But the way groups are responding to the shortage made major headlines in 2024. States, leagues and officials associations across the country are taking actions to force better treatment of sports officials.
• The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association and the Washington Officials Association started an experimental initiative wherein high school officials wear body cameras during games to help address sportsmanship issues. Beginning last January, nearly 100 basketball officials were first equipped with the technology and instructed to activate the devices for: an unsportsmanlike technical foul, an event that creates an unsafe or dangerous environment for officials, or harassing behavior that causes a stoppage or delay in play.
• The California Interscholastic Federation Sac-Joaquin Section cracked down on poor behavior by giving unruly fans red and yellow cards at high school events. A yellow card is a warning and a red card is an ejection followed by a three-game suspension. Fans who receive two red cards in a season will be banned from all games for the rest of that season.
• In response to poor treatment of its referees, the Daviess County (Ky.) Youth Soccer Association held a “Silent Sunday” Sept. 29. Only positive cheering was allowed at games with no sideline coaching or arguing with calls.
• The United Suburban Soccer Officials Association, a Chicago-area association, boycotted games at New Trier (Winnetka, Ill.) High School to take a stand against abusive behavior. The group directed its officials to not accept games for the fall and spring 2025 seasons.
MLB Umpire Angel Hernandez Retires Midseason
Veteran MLB umpire Angel Hernandez retired in May at the age of 62 after reaching a financial settlement with the league. In recent years, Hernandez was a lightning rod for criticism in the media, but during his 33-year MLB career he umpired more than 3,800 games, 12 Division Series, eight League Championship Series and two World Series. He last umpired a World Series game in 2005 and a League Championship Series in 2016. His final game was May 9
Technology to Aid
Officiating Impacts
between the Cleveland Guardians and the Chicago White Sox at Chicago’s Guaranteed Rate Field.
In 2017, Hernandez sued MLB accusing it of racial discrimination after not receiving World Series assignments or being promoted to crew chief. The case took six years to work its way through federal courts before it was dismissed in 2021, granting MLB a summary judgment. The Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals upheld the decision in 2023.
Courts Weigh in On Officiating Calls
Courts made judgments in 2024 related to the decisions of sports officials.
TPro Sports 3
echnology is impacting the role of professional officials. Officials were replaced and technology was tested to limit officials’ roles in 2024.
• The All England Club, which hosts tennis' Wimbledon, announced Oct. 9 it will replace its sideline officials with electronic line-calling. As a result, more than 300 line judges will lose their jobs. It will likely impact tennis’ ability to produce quality chair umpires, as most chair umpires start as line judges.
• The NFL moved closer to replacing the chain gang with new technology to measure the line to gain, testing Sony’s Hawk-Eye system during some 2024 preseason games.
• On June 25, all Triple-A games started using the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system. Previously, the challenge system and full ABS were used. The change allowed for more focused testing. In the challenge system, plate umpires call balls and strikes, and teams have a limited number of calls that can be reviewed by the Hawk-Eye system. Teams retain the challenge if they are successful.
• A Wisconsin Court of Appeals on Feb. 28 reinstated a high school wrestler’s state title from five years ago. Hayden Halter, then a sophomore at Waterford Union High School, was initially granted a temporary injunction that allowed him to compete in the postseason despite a disqualifying ejection from an official at the last varsity tournament of the season. In the 2019 original hearing, a judge used video to effectively reofficiate the tournament official’s calls.
The original judge retired before the trial and the new judge overturned Halter’s eligibility and stripped his title. The recent appeals court dealt solely with whether Halter’s attempt to serve a one-match suspension by signing up for a lower-level tournament before the state tournament — something the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) said it long prohibited — was allowed.
On March 22, the WIAA asked the Wisconsin Supreme Court to review the appeals court ruling. No final judgment has been made by the Court.
• In New Jersey, Manasquan High School’s protest of a March 2 state semifinal boys’ basketball game due to an apparent officiating error was denied by the New Jersey State
Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) and made its way by appeal to the Appellate Court. The court also denied the appeal, stating, “… The NJSIAA’s regulations recognize the reality that game officials’ calls are frequently disputed, and that permitting such calls to be challenged on the basis of error would result in ongoing litigation, appeals and scheduling issues, since no game could be considered final if its outcome is disputed in court as a result of an alleged error by officials.”
The game between Camden High and Manasquan ended with a ruling by the three oncourt officials that a lastsecond shot attempt by Manasquan came after the final buzzer. As a result, Camden prevailed, 46-45. Videos of the play went viral, showing the shot was released before time expired.
NCAAW Official Removed at Halftime
The NCAA changed an official at halftime of a women’s NCAA Tournament game March 23 due to a background conflict. Referee Tommi Paris, a longtime NCAA Division I women’s basketball official, was replaced by Angelica Suffren midway through the first-round game between Chattanooga and N.C. State in Raleigh, N.C.
Paris received a master’s degree in public administration from Chattanooga, according to her LinkedIn profile. The NCAA asks all officials who are being considered for the NCAA tournament to disclose school affiliations to avoid potential conflicts of interest. In this case, the NCAA was unaware of the conflict at tipoff.
5 New Hampshire Passes Officials’ Protection Law
Paris told Referee that when she was hired in the Southern Conference more than 10 years ago she asked if graduate school was a conflict. She said she was told it wasn’t unless an official was currently enrolled, so she had only listed the school from which she received her undergraduate degree as a conflict.
“After the incident, I shared documentation providing context and explanation of the honest mistake,” Paris said. “Since then, I have felt very supported by those in officiating leadership.”
NFL Makes Multiple Changes to the Officiating Department
Many changes were made in the NFL officiating department in 2024. Ramon George, who spent eight seasons as an NFL umpire, was named the league’s vice president of officiating training and development in May. He replaced former senior vice president of officiating Walt Anderson, who transitioned to a new role as rules analyst and club communications liaison.
Mark Butterworth was named vice president of replay training and development after working 25 seasons
in NFL replay, including the last seven as a replay official.
Both George and Butterworth report to Perry Fewell, senior vice president of officiating administration. In addition, the officiating department added recently retired onfield officials Gary Arthur, Fred Bryan and Tom Hill to the staff. Arthur and Bryan were assigned as coordinator coaches, and Hill will focus on furthering relationships with college coordinators to increase collaboration in development.
In July, New Hampshire became the 23rd state to pass legislation aimed at protecting sports officials from assault or harassment. Gov. Chris Sununu signed into law legislation aimed at protecting umpires and referees from attacks or threats at sporting events. Senate Bill 327 went into effect Jan. 1.
The new law allows judges to ban people from athletic competitions if they’ve been convicted of assault, harassment, stalking, mischief, reckless conduct or threatening a sports official on the field of play or immediate vicinity. The length of the ban can vary depending on the circumstances and fans, players or coaches who are convicted of certain offenses against officials could be banned from participating in amateur or professional sports for a time. Repeat offenses may lead to a lifetime ban. The bill says a ban for a first offense for someone convicted of abusing an official cannot be more than a year. Those who violate the ban could be held in criminal contempt and face a fine of $1,000 per violation.
PSRA Officials Approve CBA After Five-Week Lockout
In late March, the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) ratified a seven-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the Professional Referee Organization (PRO). The CBA runs through the 2030 MLS season and includes significant increases in pay for referees, assistant referees and video assistant referees. The agreement
ended a five-week MLS lockout. The seven-year CBA is the longest for match officials in MLS history. In the first year, MLS officials will receive an overall 28% increase in
pay compared to 2023. More modest increases occur in subsequent years. The contract also provides officials with some security in case of injury. In the past, injured officials were only paid for the games they worked. Now, all officials are guaranteed a minimum of 15 match fees per year. Improvements in travel and accommodations were also part of the CBA.
9 Major Realignments Impact College Officials
College sports officials in several sports were impacted by the breakup of the Pac-12 Conference. Many moved on to other conferences, while others retired or cut back on assignments. The basketball conference realignment shuffle and the retirement of Curtis Shaw, the longtime coordinator of men’s basketball officials for the Big 12 Conference, also impacted officiating assignments in that sport.
MLB Umpire Appeals Gambling Suspension
MLB umpire Pat Hoberg did not work games this season after spring training for allegedly violating the league’s gambling rules.
Shaw — whose consortium included Conference USA and the Missouri Valley, Ohio Valley and Southland conferences — announced in April his plan to step down.
In the wake of Shaw’s retirement, the Big 12 and Missouri Valley agreed to join the Collegiate Officiating Consortium that is headed by John Higgins. It also now includes the Big Sky, Big West, Western Athletic (WAC) and West Coast (WCC) conferences.
Female Officials Make Historic Rises
Female officials made history in the NBA and MLB in 2024.
For just the second time, a female official worked the NBA playoffs. Ashley Moyer-Gleich officiated a firstround matchup, becoming the first woman to officiate an NBA playoff game since Violet Palmer in 2012. Jen Pawol became the first woman to umpire an MLB spring training game in 17 years this past February. Pawol was at third base for the Grapefruit League opener between the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals, making her the first woman to work spring training since Ria Cortesio in 2007. Pawol reached Triple-A in 2023, becoming the first woman in 34 years to do so. She was named a Triple-A crew chief for the 2024 season and was on MLB’s call-up list.
The acquisition of the Big 12 provides a landing spot for conference officials after the dissolution of the Pac-12. Conference USA, the Ohio Valley and Southland conferences transitioned into the consortium headed by Mike Eades, which includes the American Athletic, Atlantic Sun, Southeastern, Southern, Sun Belt and Southwestern Athletic conferences. Finally, the Mountain West Conference (MWC) — which had previously fallen under Higgins — shifted to the College Officiating Consortium headed by Terry Wymer, which includes the Big Ten and MAC and the Horizon and Summit leagues. There was also a significant change in women’s basketball, with the MWC joining the VP12 women’s basketball officiating alliance headed by former NBA official Violet Palmer. The MWC joins the Big Sky, Big West, WAC and WCC under Palmer’s watch.
High
School
Officials
“While MLB’s investigation did not find any evidence that games worked by Mr. Hoberg were compromised or manipulated in any way, MLB determined that discipline was warranted,” a league statement said.
Hoberg, 38, appealed the suspension. A Des Moines, Iowa, native, Hoberg became a fulltime MLB umpire in 2017, though he made his debut in 2014. In his 10-year MLB career, he has umpired 1,094 regular-season games and received seven postseason assignments, including the 2022 World Series.
Protest
Game Fees and Pay Methods
In search of better pay or pay methods, officials in California, New York and Massachusetts boycotted games or threatened work stoppages in 2024.
• In January, Unit I of the Southern California Soccer Officials Association voted to continue its boycott of games through the end of the season and playoffs. Some units began the season boycotting but returned because leagues used “donations” to bridge the gap between the CIF-Southern Section fee structure and referee demands.
• Referees from the Central New York Soccer Officials Association refused to work games last fall due to their displeasure with the electronic payment system. It’s an issue that
was thought to have been resolved in 2019, when New York State Section III schools first tried implementing an electronic system. Many officials at the time expressed their aversion to electronic payment, leading to Section III abandoning it. After the recent protest, many schools again dropped the pay system.
• In October, the National Ice Hockey Officials Association (NIHOA) said 52% of the registered ice hockey officials statewide plan not to work Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) boys’ and girls’ high school games this winter under the fee of $97 per varsity game. The NIHOA asked for $126 for varsity games and between $73 to $96 for sub-varsity. MIAA cited budgetary cycles, but the NIHOA said it has tried to work with them toward a resolution since October 2022. At press time, no resolution was reported. 12
Former NBA Referee
On April 22, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York awarded former NBA referee Ken Mauer his pension of more than $2.9 million plus 8.5% interest after New York federal judge J. Paul Oetken ruled in Mauer’s favor in March.
Mauer, 69, who was fired from the league for refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, filed the lawsuit
Ken Mauer Wins Pension Lawsuit
June 13, 2023, against the NBA and the Pension Committee of the NBA Referees’ Pension Plan, claiming he was wrongfully denied his pension after his firing. The NBA Pension Committee argued that a different lawsuit Mauer filed in November 2022 conflicted with the pension request and could result in reinstatement.
Mauer filed that other lawsuit along with former NBA referees Mark Ayotte and Jason Phillips, seeking
Former NFL Referee Parry Hired by Bills
Former NFL referee
John Parry was hired by the Buffalo Bills in May to serve as their officiating liaison.
Parry had served as a rules analyst for ESPN and ABC Monday Night Football telecasts since 2019. He was an NFL official for 19 years, the last 12 as a referee. His last assignment was Super Bowl LIII. He worked two other Super Bowls (XLI and XLVI), two Wild
Card playoff games, seven Divisional playoff games and one Conference Championship game. Parry is the first to serve in the advisor role for the Bills, assisting the coaching staff regarding replay challenges during games and providing rule interpretations. However, he is not the first NFL official to take on such a role. In 2019, 27-year veteran and three-time Super Bowl referee Gerald Austin was hired as a staff consultant by then-Oakland Raiders coach Jon Gruden.
Duron Receives Probation, $200 Fine in Referee Attack in Texas 16
The assault of referee Alfredo Gracia by Edinburg (Texas) High School football player Emmanuel Duron during a 2020 game was among Referee’s biggest stories of 2020. Duron, now 22, who pleaded no contest to a charge of assault causing bodily injury, was sentenced May 14 in Hidalgo County District Court to one year of probation and ordered to pay a $200 fine. He was also ordered to remain employed, avoid places and people of “harmful character” and not possess a firearm.
During the Dec. 3, 2020, high school playoff game, Duron charged back on the field after being ejected for unsporting conduct and blindsided Gracia. The referee, who was on the
ground for several minutes, was evaluated for a possible concussion and a shoulder injury. Edinburg won the game but did not advance in the playoffs. In the wake of the attack, the school district removed the team from the postseason. Duron was banned from participation in high school athletics.
back pay and compensatory damages — not reinstatement — after the league denied the referees religious exemptions for not receiving the vaccine and fired them as a result.
Mauer joined the NBA as a referee in 1986 and was one of the NBA’s longest-tenured oncourt officials when he was suspended for the 2021-22 season and terminated in September 2022.
15
Fired MiLB Umpires Sue MLB
Two former Minor League Baseball umpires sued MLB, claiming they were retaliated against after reporting they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by a female colleague. Brandon Cooper, who worked in the Arizona Complex League in 2023, filed the original lawsuit in April in a Manhattan federal court. He sued MLB and one of its affiliated entities, PDL Blue Inc., claiming fellow umpire Gina Quartararo used anti-gay slurs and other crude remarks directed toward him because he is bisexual.
Cooper also alleged a hostile work environment and wrongful termination because of gender and sexual orientation in violation of New York state and city law.
In October, Alexander Lawrie, who worked in the minor leagues from 2019 until April, when he says MLB fired him for “performance reasons,” joined the lawsuit. He alleges he was sexually assaulted by Quartararo in March following a charity event. Lawrie believes he was terminated by MLB in retaliation for reporting his allegations against Quartararo to the Association of Minor League Umpires union, of which he was a member.
VISIONINACTION
THE SMART WAY TO MANAGE YOUR OFFICIATING DEDUCTIONS
Do you want to get money back for your officiating expenses? Dumb question. Of course you do! Who doesn’t like getting money?
The smartest way to do that — and the one that you are entitled to under federal tax law — is to deduct your officiating expenses directly from your officiating income on your tax returns.
That simple act could save you hundred and even thousands of dollars every year depending on how many games you officiate and if you’re capable of maximizing your deductions.
returns can be found in the
When it comes to your sports officiating income, everything you need to know to start filing your returns can be found in the Sports Officials Tax Guide, which is a free benefit of NASO membership. It’s fully updated for the 2024 tax year and is currently available to every NASO member through the members-only NASO app. If you’re an NASO member, you might also want to check your email because, in addition to putting it on the NASO Members app, we e-mailed you an easy link to download the current Tax Guide in mid-December.
WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!
sections on income, expenses and frequently asked questions. Sample tax forms and a handy game log are also included.
That digital booklet is available free to NASO members, so if you’re not already a member, now is a great time to join for several reasons. Not only will you get access to the latest Tax Guide, but your NASO membership dues are also fully deductible from your officiating income.
The Tax Guide is an easy-to-read 32-page manual that includes sections on understanding the tax rules for independent contractors as well as
In depending on your tax bracket and your state’s
ATTENTION REFEREE MAGAZINE SUBSCRIBERS
In fact, you could save up to $35 from your NASO membership alone depending on your tax bracket and your state’s laws.
Speaking change regularly, so the
Speaking of which, tax laws differ from state to state, and change regularly, so the information is intended to serve as a general guide. You should contact a professional for advice pertinent to your particular situation.
And if you are an NASO member but are not receiving email communications from us, please drop us a line at LockerRoom@naso.org and request to be added.
The Internal Revenue Service takes a critical look at the income tax filings made by sports officials — professional and amateur — and NASO is here to help you prepare for those situations.
It’s time to join the rest of us in the National Association of Sports Officials. Not only will you continue to receive the world’s #1 officiating publication, you’ll enjoy all of the additional benefits NASO members enjoy.
Go to naso.org/upgrade2025 to join NASO for the special introductory price of $119 and receive these two FREE books!
DON’T FLIP OUT How to Handle Tricky Throw-in Plays
By John Van de Vaarst
The ball goes into touch and a throw-in is awarded to the attacking team approximately 25 yards from the goalline. A1 takes the ball, moves back and runs toward the touchline. A1 then uses the ball as a handspring and flips over, landing on their feet and releasing the ball. This extra momentum from the flip causes the ball to travel into the penalty area near the goal area, where A2 heads the ball into the goal.
Is this legal?
The officiating crew and spectators are caught off guard and wonder how the player could have performed such a “trick play.” The next step is for the referees to make a decision. Is it a foul throw or a goal? This must be done quickly so the coach and spectators recognize the officials know the rules.
In making a decision about the throw-in, the referee must analyze the technique. In this case there is not a breach of the Laws of the Game. This has been verified by many referee instructors at the highest level. Throw-in Law 15 requires only the following five points to be legal. The thrower-in must:
• Be facing the field.
• Have both feet or part of them on the touchline or behind it.
• Use both hands.
• Throw the ball from behind and above the head.
• Make the throw-in from the place where it left the field.
When A1 released the ball, both feet were on the ground behind the touchline and the ball was released from behind and over the head. The fact A1 performed the flip prior to this has no bearing on the legality of the throw-in.
Oddly enough, contrary to popular belief, the rule/Law does not require the player to stand perfectly straight when throwing in the ball.
While a “flip throw” may look like a trick play, this technique is legal as long as the player has both feet behind the touchline and on the ground when the ball is released. The ball must be released from behind and over the head.
The flip-throw technique actually involves throwing in the ball from a crouching position, which still satisfies the definition of standing, part of a fluid motion as the ball leaves the hands. The motion serves as a “catapult” for the ball. In reality, the flip throw is no different than a player taking a run and then releasing the ball for the throw-in. It is merely a way to obtain additional distance on the throw-in.
Another example is when team A is awarded a throw-in near the corner flag. A2 wants to throw the ball to A3, who is right next to A2. A2 kneels down and throws the ball very gently from behind and over the head so it lands on A3’s foot. Is this legal? The NCAA has an approved ruling for this situation. AR 15.2.k states, “Is a throw-in taken while kneeling allowed? Ruling: No.” In Law 15.1, the IFAB indicates the player must be standing. This means a throw-in from a kneeling position is illegal. The NFHS is silent on this specific play but does indicate both feet must be on the ground. This is to be interpreted as standing.
Play: Team A is awarded a throwin. A2 quickly gets the ball, throws it in and hits an opponent in the back.
A2 then runs on to the field, gains possession of the ball and continues downfield. Is this legal? Ruling: As long as A2 did not throw the ball in a violent manner, the requirements of the throw-in are satisfied. A2 can re-establish playing the ball since it was touched by a player from team B. This is yet another example of a play that does not normally occur during a game but for which a referee must be prepared.
When judging a fair throw-in, the referee and/or assistant referee must only judge whether the throwin satisfied the criteria of the rule/ Law as stated above. If so, it is a legal throw-in. If not, the throw-in is awarded to the opponents.
Soccer referees must be ready for any unusual situation that may occur during a game. A thorough knowledge of the rules/Laws will go a long way in making the proper decision rapidly and moving the game forward with minimal disruption and/or dissent.
John Van de Vaarst, Ellicott City, Md., is a NISOA National Clinician, National Assessor and former State Level USSF Referee and Assessor. He is Referee’s soccer coordinator.
Hold That Line Pregame Checks of Lines, Balls Keep Matches Running Smoothly
By Robert Kaufmann
Walking the field before a match helps officials identify safety issues so they can be corrected before play starts. Officials should also be alert to issues related to field line markings.
Are the goallines, goal-area lines, penalty-area lines, touchlines and halfway lines straight, visible, and are their locations correct? (If there are issues, it helps to have a measuring tape available.) Is there a school logo interfering with the halfway line? If
the lines are not correct, can these problems be corrected before the game? If the equipment is available, powder lines can be added to make corrections. If poor lines cannot be corrected, problems should be reported by the referee in his or her game report, but in most instances, the game can still be played, with both teams being aware of the problems, which should affect them both equally.
The penalty-kick line should be 12 yards from the goal, and six yards from the goal-area line. If the penalty-
SURVEY SAYS ...
Do you keep your cards in your shirt pocket or shorts pocket? Shirt: 71%
Shorts: 29%
SOURCE: REFEREE
QUICKTIP
During a corner kick, an attacker steps off the field, over the goalline, to gain a better position. This is an example of where a referee should employ preventive officiating. In this case, the referee should advise the kicker not to play the ball until signaled by the referee. The referee then advises the attacker they must remain on the field of play. Once the attacker complies, the referee signals for the restart.
THEY SAID IT
“It’s such an amazing time, with the growth of the women’s game going from strength to strength. And with that, the expectations placed on the match officials are increasing with every tournament and every game. … We want more girls and women to be part of the refereeing family. Being a referee is one of the most incredible journeys you can embark on in football, because it not only brings you on as a referee but also as a person.”
— Bibiana Steinhaus-Webb, former FIFA referee who was named FIFA’s head of women’s refereeing in October.
TEST YOURSELF
In each of the following, decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS, NCAA or IFAB rules/Laws. Solutions: p. 81.
1. A defender accidentally touches the ball with the hand/ arm within their penalty area and stops a promising attack (SPA). The defender does not move the hand/arm toward the ball; however, the hand/arm has made their body unnaturally bigger.
a. Penalty kick.
b. Penalty kick and caution.
c. Penalty kick and ejection.
2. A player commits a foul while attempting to play the ball within their penalty area which denies an opponent an obvious goalscoring opportunity (DOGSO).
a. Penalty kick.
b. Penalty kick and caution.
c. Penalty kick and ejection.
3. After the first half has ended, A3 makes a comment to B2, who takes exception to it and strikes A3 in the face on the field of play.
a. No action since it is halftime.
b. B2 is ejected but may be substituted for since it was halftime.
c. B2 is ejected and team B plays short in the second half.
4. B3 is shielding the ball, which is in playing distance so it goes out of play. A2 is near the play and states to the referee this is impeding and should be a foul.
a. Award an indirect free kick for impeding.
b. Caution A2 for dissent.
c. Allow play to continue. Shielding is legal in this instance.
5. At kickoff, A2, who is going to take the kick, is standing in the opponent’s half of the field. After the whistle is sounded, A2 plays the ball to A4, who was also in the opponent’s half of the field.
a. Retake the kick since A4 was not in a legal position.
b. Award an indirect free kick for team B.
c. Caution A4 and award an indirect free kick for team B.
kick line is off and cannot easily be corrected, both teams can play under the same conditions. If the arc around the penalty area or the circle around the starting spot are not there, play the game without them and note their absence in your game report. If there is a penalty kick, use your judgment to make sure the players are all at least 10 yards away from the penalty spot. Keep the players 10 yards away from the player taking a kickoff. There should also be a one-yard arc around the corners which can be added if missing, but the game can be played without them. Just make sure players are 10 yards away from where that arc should be before a corner kick takes place. Also, the ball must be placed within that area for the kick to be proper.
The field itself should be long enough and wide enough based on league rules. If the field is too short, long, wide or narrow, but reasonably close to correct dimensions, you should decide to play the game and report the problem in your game report. For NCAA games and professional games, however, the game cannot be played if the main field markings and field dimensions are not according to specs. The only exception is within the NCAA rules, which indicate a field constructed before 1995 only need to be rectangular. In this case the visiting team must be notified in advance and may elect not to play the game.
The official should also check to see if the corner flags are in place on each corner, and if not, ask the home team to put them in place. The corner flags must have safe, flexible posts, and should be at least five feet high. Any bright colors can be used. If corner flags are not available, play the game and include the problem in your game report. Be aware you must use extra care in trying to identify the goalline and where the ball exits from the goalline or touchline when it goes out near the corner. If the corner flag is properly standing up, do not allow a player to move it when attempting a corner kick. Some turf fields will use corner flags that will not stand up in a strong wind. If they won’t stay up, just leave them down and play
the game. If a player is attempting a corner kick and the flag is down, allow it to be moved so it does not interfere with the kick.
A number of fields will have a football goalpost that either encroaches onto the field or is very near to the goalpost. If a ball hits this football crossbar, it is out of bounds and the referee will award a corner kick or goal kick. Be aware of this possibility. Listen for the sound and look for quick movement of a ball that deflects off the soccer goalpost into the football goalpost or a ball that hits directly off the football goalpost and back into play. This happens quickly, and the referee must be prepared to blow the whistle immediately to stop play. If an assistant referee observes this incident, and the referee does not, the AR should raise his or her flag and get the referee’s attention so the proper call can be made. Some fields may have trees that hang over the field. If the ball hits these trees and falls back onto the field without passing over the out-of-bounds plane, they are to be ruled inbounds, unless the field has a special ground rule about this situation. In an indoor facility, a ball hitting the roof is considered to be out of play. The referee also must check to make sure no drones are flying over the field, which is illegal in most leagues. If there are drones over the field, ask the coach or field manager to stop this activity before starting the game. Many fields, particularly turf fields, may be marked for a multitude of sports, including lacrosse, football, field hockey, baseball and softball. That may make it difficult for the official to identify the soccer touchline and goallines, particularly if the soccer lines are not as distinctive as the football or other lines. This is all the more reason for the officials to get to the field early and inspect these lines to get familiar with them. If a mistake is made and a ball is incorrectly whistled out of bounds, own the mistake and restart with a drop ball to the team that last touched the ball.
Officials must also inspect the balls before a game. For NFHS games,
the home team is required to have at least three game balls available for play with the proper markings; the game cannot be played if the balls do not have the proper markings. For NCAA games, five balls are required. If the home team does not have the required balls, the balls may be supplied by the visiting team. The referees must inspect the balls to see they have proper coverings without tears, and they are not warped. They must also inspect to see the balls are properly inflated based on the ball’s inflation requirements. Many referees test this by pressing the ball with the thumbs, but it is even better to have
Clash Acts
By Dan Rudloff
Every referee team at one time or another will be faced with a confrontation between players, bench personnel, coaches and perhaps even fans during a match. That is a given. Handling this situation correctly can make the difference between the match being totally ruined — maybe even abandoned — and the match coming to a proper conclusion.
Being prepared for this inevitability is the key since these situations can come out of the blue, they can build up as the game progresses, or they can be seen a mile away between bitter rivals. In any case, being prepared certainly gives the officials a chance to deal with the situation and restore order. One of the components of any pregame conversation for the crew should include discussing the possibility of a confrontation on the field.
If one has the luxury of a fourth official and there is such an incident, that official needs to know to step
a pressure gauge, or a pressure gauge with a pump. That allows the referee to test and ensure the balls have the proper air pressure and correct the ball pressure if needed. Usually, if the ball needs more air, the home team can handle the pumping and then give the balls back to the referee for retesting. Most leagues have a weight requirement (usually 14-16 ounces) and dimension requirements (27-28 inches) for balls, but this is not usually an issue. For youth games, make sure you are playing with the proper size ball for the age group that is playing.
Most of the situations listed
above, both safety and quality-of-field issues, are solvable so the game can be played, and many can be corrected before the game. But this can only occur if the officials get to the field early enough to properly inspect the field and, in some instances, get assistance to correct the problem before the game. If the officials arrive at the field on time and do the required inspections, they can do a great deal to ensure the game will be played safely and fairly for both teams.
Robert Kaufmann, Glen Rock, N.J., is a lawyer who has been a high school, youth and senior amateur referee for 18 years.
Soccer officials can anticipate a scrum by paying attention to plays in which players get physical. For example, a player pulling another player to the ground by his or her jersey could lead to tempers flaring.
CASEPLAYS
Hurt or Not?
Play: A2 is fouled by B3 near the halfway line. A2 appears to be injured so the referee advises team A not to take the free kick. The referee stops the clock (NFHS and NCAA) and beckons the athletic trainer onto the field of play. The head coach advises the athletic trainer not to enter the field feeling A2 is not seriously hurt. Ruling: The injured player is to be attended to and if it is not a long delay may continue to play (IFAB 5.3). For NFHS and NCAA, the player must leave the field and may be substituted for or the team may play short (NFHS 3-3-2F; NCAA 5.6.7.1).
Textbook Encroachment
Play: A3 is held in the defensive penalty area and the referee stops play and awards a penalty kick. All players are lined up outside the penalty area and arc and behind the ball. The referee signals for the kick and A3 begins to move toward the ball. Just prior to the kick, A4 encroaches. A3 shoots and scores. Ruling: In NFHS and NCAA, the kick shall be retaken (NFHS 14-1-4; NCAA 14.3.2.4). In IFAB, the goal is allowed as long as the encroachment did not interfere with the goalkeeper (IFAB 14.2).
Mercy Rule
Play: After 60 minutes of play, team A is leading, 8-0. The referee elects to stop the contest operating under the belief team B has no chance of winning and the wanting to prevent any possible injuries as a result of the score differential. Ruling: This is illegal for NCAA and IFAB since two equal halves were not played (NCAA 7.1.1; IFAB 7.1). For a game played under NFHS rules, this could occur if the state has adopted a goal-differential procedure (NFHS 7-1-5).
off the sideline and face the benches. No game needs anyone additional, be they players, coaches or trainers, leaving the sideline to join the fray. The fourth official needs to use their voice first to deter that behavior and take numbers and/or take note of anyone leaving the technical area to enter the field. There is no need to touch anyone. This should never happen. Using voice to deter and taking notes on perpetrators are essential. After all is resolved, that information will be made available to the referee to decide the bench punishments.
The assistant referees should also be instructed to handle their areas, again not to touch anyone, and to take note of those who become involved and be ready to confer with the referee later. The first assistant referee specifically will be able to assist the fourth official with anyone leaving the bench as well as players in the immediate area. The referee will naturally be concentrating attention on the participants in the confrontation rather than who else may become involved or may add to the incident. The assistant referees’ main job is to be able to report with complete certainty anyone additional to the incident.
Crucial in any confrontation is the demeanor of all crew members, including the fourth official. Keeping one’s cool when others are losing theirs is not easy, but it is vital. Running toward the incident will only encourage others to do the same and will reduce each official’s capacity later to give critical information to the referee. One’s clear, concise recollection of who, what, when and where will be compromised by not remaining calm. Maintaining composure is easy to say and difficult to do, but crucial to the unraveling later, which is so important when the game restarts.
The individual with the most responsibility, of course, is the referee. There is a lot to consider and eventually a lot to do. The best view is as close as can be without losing perspective of the incident. Coming too close means running the risk of being caught up in the scrum. One’s
view of the incident then can be ruined. As with the assistant referees, running to the scene instinctively can cause others to do the same. Walking briskly with conviction is a better choice than running. The fewer people directly or indirectly involved makes sorting things out easier afterward. The referee needs the best possible view without becoming part of the incident. Being too close can destroy the overall view.
For the referee, rather than touching, pushing or trying to separate the individuals, using one’s firm voice should be the first strategy. Grabbing anyone can result in the official being punched or pushed — that’s how an official can become part of the incident, which is obviously not a good idea. Voice first, but then possibly stepping between players with one’s body with minimal touching may get the job done. Being the epitome of calm within the storm will help defuse the situation. Not being calm can overheat an already escalated scene. After all, the first objective should be to bring calm back to whatever has happened. Sorting it all out comes after.
So, what to do after the dust settles? First of all, there is no reason to be in a hurry. Making sure the teams and individuals are separated and the clock is stopped (NFHS and NCAA) is paramount. Then the crew needs to be sure the primary combatants are identified. Who is the perpetrator and the responder, or are the primaries equally to blame? What happens to each of them? Is there a “third person” or more involved? If so, did they come from a distance, or were they right there? Did anyone come off the benches? All of that needs to be decided and agreed upon before making the ultimate decisions about punishment. Consensus among the crew may take some time, but what’s important is to get everything right.
This is the time for the crew to consult. A calm conservation lets time pass, allows the referee to be absolutely sure of what happened and assures both teams that no snap judgments are being made. Since it is unlikely that there is a
single perpetrator, there should be punishment for both sides, but not necessarily equal.
No matter who caused the fracas, someone is probably initially responsible. If the opponent responded in kind, justified or not, that player should also be penalized. It could be a red card for one and a yellow card for the other, or yellow for one and a stern and obvious warning for the other. For example, a hard push to start and an equal push as a response could be caution/caution. A significant action first that elicits a lesser response could be ejection/caution. Getting the opinions of the crew confirms it is on the same page and hopefully clearly identifies the perpetrator.
The proverbial “third person in” also needs to be dealt with for exacerbating the original occurrence, whether the player came from near or far. Players or personnel off the benches need to be punished as the sanctity of the field has to be
cool when others are losing theirs is not easy, but it is vital.
protected. The assistant referees should have numbers ready to give the referee. Those should be automatic. If the benches are a problem, cautioning the coach for not controlling the bench may make the rest of the day go smoother. Make no mistake that there is still a game to be played.
A useful piece of advice from the referee to the crew in the aftermath and before play begins is for them to call the game very closely for a while or even for the rest of the game. Maybe every bump needs to be a foul for a time. The message to everyone
will be, “We will have no more of that today. If you don’t want to or can’t play within the rules and the spirit of the game, we will decide how the game is played.” That’s not to say that the officiating can’t be loosened up if the game returns to “normal.”
A confrontation can absolutely ruin a game if not handled properly. Every crew has one of these nightmares once in a while. Some could have been prevented and some not. Whether preventable or not, the mechanics of how the incident is handled goes a long way to restoring order and allowing the game to come to an equitable conclusion. And maybe, just maybe, the teams will learn something to carry forward in their seasons.
Dan Rudloff, Chester, Pa., is a NISOA National Referee Emeritus and longtime high school soccer official who has officiated numerous high school state championships and NCAA playoff matches.
PROFILES
Wilcox Writes Final Chapter to Storied Career
By Leah Berard
It takes a talented and passionate individual to be both a high-level athlete as well as a high-level sports official. After his 20th year of officiating NCAA women’s basketball concludes later this spring, Ricky Wilcox will retire from collegiate hoops. Wilcox originally began officiating in 1995, which is the same year his son,
Tyler, was born. “That was the year everything started for me,” Wilcox said. “My goal was not only to be the best father that I could be but also to be the best referee I could be.”
It was Wilcox’s love of the game and his desire to stay involved in it that led him from player to official, and he will be transitioning into other officiating roles after this spring.
Wilcox grew up in Albany, N.Y., where he played basketball at Albany High School. He went on to play college basketball at Niagara University (Lewiston, N.Y.) on a full athletic scholarship. Once he graduated from college, he tried out for the Albany Patroons, a semiprofessional basketball team, but didn’t make the roster. He still had a year
of athletic eligibility left in college, though, and he decided to play for Columbia Union College — known today as Washington Adventist University — in Takoma Park, Md.
“Based on my performance in the NAIA tournament, I was given the opportunity to try out for the Los Angeles Clippers and invited to participate in the Los Angeles Summer League,” Wilcox said.
After his playing experience, Wilcox was looking to stay involved in the game he loved, and that is where officiating took hold.
From college player to college official, Wilcox’s most memorable moment in officiating was in 2018 when he was selected as an official for the NCAA Division III women’s basketball championship in Rochester, Minn. He remembers how he felt in the big conference room, waiting for his assignment. “By far, the best moment was hearing that I had been chosen to officiate the championship game,” Wilcox said. After working his way from girls’ high school up to Division I, his commitment to being the best official he could be paid off.
Wilcox is grateful for many who have supported him. He credits one of his mentors, Michele St. Pierre, with teaching him to learn from his mistakes, listen to advice and take one or two things from every game to work on. Another mentor, Mike Schmidt, taught him how to manage games, work on his oncourt demeanor and be a professional both on and off the court. Lastly, Dr. Ed Meier taught him to be accountable and the meaning of consistency in the game. And none of this would be possible for Wilcox without his wife, Theresa, who was also a high school basketball player and coach, or his son, who regularly attended his games and is now a varsity girls’ basketball coach after officiating high school basketball. Leah Berard, St. Paul, Minn., officiated international rugby and now officiates high school and college football.
Finding Balance
Between officiating volleyball, her role as assistant director of recreational sports at Louisiana State University-Shreveport and raising two kids, Jami Brossette has a lot on her plate. She recently added to her officiating duties, becoming the Area 1 representative for volleyball for the Louisiana High School Officials Association.
“You can officiate on your own schedule,” said Brossette, who referees club, high school and college volleyball. “If you know you can’t work on certain days, you can block off those days and say you aren’t available. For anybody that loves sports, it’s a great way to give back to the community.”
SOURCE: LSUS NEWS
A Robust Résumé Randy Campbell Monument, Colo.
Randy Campbell’s oncourt career concluded last March, and what a career it was. Campbell worked both football and women’s basketball at the Division I level. During a college football career that spanned 1988-2020, Campbell worked in the Western Athletic, Mountain West, Big 12, Pac-12 and Big Sky conferences. He was also an NFL replay official from 2017-23. On the basketball side, Campbell worked 25 straight NCAA D-I tournaments from 1991-2015. He also officiated high school lacrosse, baseball and softball.
Campbell is now coordinator of football officials for the Big Sky and coordinator of football and women’s basketball officials for the D-II Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.
Do you know a person or group who should be profiled? Send info to us at profiles@referee.com
Jami Brossette Shreveport, La.
Ricky Wilcox poses with a bobblehead of himself next to a cabinet of memorabilia from his officiating career.
BASKETBALL VIDEO TRAINING
CARE-FRONTATION
CARE-FRONTATION
STRESS CAN SNEAK UP ON US AS OFFICIALS. BOB DELANEY SAYS IT’S IMPORTANT TO PRIORITIZE MIND HEALTH AND SELF-HEALING.
By Dan Ronan
bob Delaney, a retired NBA referee and the Southeastern Conference special advisor for officiating development and performance, is one of the officiating industry’s foremost leaders in mental toughness, trauma and perseverance. All his adult life has been about those three traits.
The 2003 NASO Gold Whistle Award recipient was once again front and
center, this time at the 2024 NASO Sports Officiating Summit in late July in Atlanta, speaking to attendees about the importance of leadership, mind health, surviving trauma, tenacity and perseverance. He is an in-demand public speaker, discussing leadership, motivation and mental health issues. He travels the globe to deliver a message of selfhealing and support.
“I was good at doing undercover work,” Delaney said, referring to his time as an
undercover New Jersey state trooper as part of a yearslong investigation into a crime syndicate that eventually saw the arrest of more than 30 organized crime figures.
“I would wear the recording device where you would wear a cup, and I had on/off switches in my pocket, microphones under my armpits. I did over 300 recordings with mob guys that way.”
Delaney revealed that lifestyle took a significant toll on his mental and physical health.
“I was good at doing (undercover work) then, but I’d get two miles down the street after leaving them and have to pull over and throw up my guts,” he said. “Find the first gas station I could find, because I had diarrhea. I’d wake up in the middle of the night, my bed was soaking wet. I didn’t tell anybody that. I was afraid. I was embarrassed, I was ashamed.
“So, you make believe everything is OK. Those are the stories and that’s the hope of this. The reason I called (my book) Surviving the Shadows, we all have shadows in life, but never be afraid of a shadow, because in order for a shadow to exist that means there’s light nearby, so it’s our responsibility to ourselves and each other to get to that light.”
In the aftermath of his harrowing experience, Delaney began officiating high school and college basketball. He later rose to the Continental Basketball Association, the NBA’s minor league at the time, before being hired full-time by
Left: From left, Seattle soccer
officials Chris Turner, Alexis Magston and Sya Magston bump fists. Right: A crew of football officials gather at halftime. It’s important for officials to build camaraderie on and off the field.
CARE-FRONTATION
Being on a basketball court, managing the game, enforcing the rules — officiating became Delaney’s therapy as he dealt with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“I became a student of what this thing called posttraumatic stress was, but at the same time, the only thing that was making sense to me is that I had to get back on a basketball court,” Delaney said, emphasizing how important basketball was to him as he moved out of police work and into a new career. “I didn’t
know what I know about posttraumatic stress today, but I knew that a basketball court was inner peace for me. Inner peace, I think, comes to all of us who officiate. You get between those lines and all of a sudden there’s an inner peace because whatever else is going on in your life, you’re focused on the task at hand.”
Leadership can become a part of a person’s life at a young age, according to Delaney, and it develops in stages, using successes and failures to develop the skills necessary to grow. There is always a new challenge and finding new ways to attack a problem and find solutions is what inspires Delaney.
“Today, if you ask somebody about resiliency, they will say it’s either bouncing forward or bouncing back,” Delaney said. “The only thing about bouncing back, if you’re not in a good place to begin with and you bounce back, you’re only going to another bad place.
“I break it down into three sections. One is a confrontation to the reality has to take place. We have to confront the reality. But I don’t like the word confront. I think it’s abrasive,
I think it’s almost like a negative word, we’ve got to confront something. So, I use ‘care-frontation.’ We’re going to confront because we care, so if you combine the words, it’s a care-frontation. Try it with your referees. When they miss a call, say we’re going to have a care-frontation about this call that you just missed. It changes the whole demeanor of the conversation.
“The second part is a search for meaning. You have to understand what we’re doing. But I would also add in that while we all have our own religious beliefs, there’s a spirituality to resilience.
“The third part is FIA. Flexible, innovative and adaptive. We need to be flexible, innovative and adaptive in how we approach moving forward with resiliency.”
Delaney explained how he came to realize he was suffering from PTSD and how he worked to recognize triggers.
“I was a student at the Harvard Global Mental Health Recovery program,” he said. “Dr. Richard Mollica is the director. He has a very simple statement. He said that trauma is inescapable in life. We all have it. You can go around this room, and some of you, I hope that I’m not triggering with this conversation of bringing back thoughts. But understanding why those thoughts can trigger us is important. Knowing dates on a calendar, sights, smells, sounds can bring us back because what happens is when the mind gets in a relaxed state that traumatic event is playing again like a movie in our head. That’s the reason that we have nightmares.”
Delaney believes there is a way to use the trauma one has experienced and build
the NBA in 1987.
Top: California umpires Brian Ward, Simi Valley, and Tim Drew, Oak View, take the field before a game. Bottom: Volleyball referee Giovanni Ponciano, Torrance, Calif., has a pregame discussion with his crew.
HE BELIEVES THERE IS A WAY TO USE THE TRAUMA ONE HAS EXPERIENCED AND BUILD ON IT TO HEAL AND DEVELOP MORE RESILIENCE.
on it to heal and develop more resilience.
“Nature gives healing if we allow it,” Delaney said. “Nature allows us to heal. I’m not going to go tree hugger on you, but I would offer to you is if you watch animals, and walk through the woods, and hear the sounds, and allow that kind of inner peace to come, that’s something that sports officiating does for you, but you also need to have that kind of relaxation for the inner peace, and it has to happen on a consistent basis.
“I also refer to it as mind health. The reason I use the phrase mind health — I believe that when we say mental health that it conjures up the mental illness, and that subconsciously people start thinking of mental illness and then we’re afraid to have these conversations. So, we have to create environments that allow for these conversations to take place.”
Delaney’s quest for healing has led him to help others and write about his experience. His book on the topic, Surviving the Shadows: A Journey of Hope Into Post-Traumatic Stress, was published in 2011.
“It’s the stories of military members, law enforcement, civilians, who have gone through traumatic events, and what it does to them,” Delaney said. “I would underline to you that the intellectual readiness part of understanding posttraumatic stress, while we think of it always as emotional
and psychological, there is a physiological aspect to it.”
Delaney spoke of going through a difficult medical situation years ago. His doctor took many blood samples; upon receiving the results, the doctor, who was unfamiliar with Delaney’s story, asked him if there were extended periods of his life where he was under high stress.
“He said, like exposure to the sun can show up as cancer 30 years later, exposure to prolonged periods of stress can show up in medical issues down the road,” Delaney said. Delaney closed his session with a story about how he met World War II veteran Richard Overton during a Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in 2013.
He related the experience to improving mind health and moving forward.
“Had I lived during the time that Mr. Overton served, he and I would’ve drank from different water fountains,” Delaney said. “He and I would’ve used different restrooms. Yet he fought for me. He fought for me and my family, he fought for you and your family. … I expressed that gratitude immensely, and I went on and on, and probably too much because at one point he grabbed my hand a little tighter, he pulled me closer, and as he winked his eye he said, ‘I can still do more.’
“That photo is in my office. It reminds me every day that I can do more. I can do more to be a better husband, a better father, a better grandfather, at all the titles that I have. But I also can do more to take care of me. Self-care does not mean selfishness. Self-care is about taking care of you so that you can be the best you can be to make this world a better place.”
Dan Ronan is a Washington-based journalist and a retired Division I baseball umpire and small-college basketball referee.
Below left: Retired NBA referee Bob Delaney presents at the 2024 NASO Summit in Atlanta. Right: Delaney poses with World War II veteran Richard Overton during a Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in 2013.
EDITOR:
COORDINATOR:
MOVEMENT WITH A PURPOSE
It’s
Called the Working Area for a Reason
By Patrick Faerber
Most umpires understand the basics of the working area, yet many don’t fully know how to use it throughout a game. The working area, which spans from the B position to the C position and from the back of the mound to the second-base cutout, enables the base umpire to cover multiple runners without overcommitting to one call and being out of position for another. This concept is critical to new umpires taking the field. However, what makes the top tier of umpires stand out is their understanding of the broader uses of the working area and the strategy of shading the side of the field the ball is on (MechaniGram 1).
Get Across
One of the most common examples of using the working area is an infield ground ball with at least one runner on base, ending in a play at first. Here, the base umpire (U1) should always end in the same position to make the call at first, regardless of whether U1 started in the B or C position. MechaniGram 2 illustrates the working area concept clearly: The base umpire moves toward the right side of the infield to get closer to the play at first, aiming for an optimal angle and distance. However, the umpire shouldn’t overcommit beyond the B position.
When working the bases in the two-umpire system, Brandon Warrenfeltz, San Pedro, Calif., understands the need to move within the working area behind the mound to create the best angles for ruling on plays when there are multiple baserunners.
While the B position provides a better view than C, it still allows the umpire to respond if another play develops elsewhere.
Infield groundouts ending at first are frequent. For umpires, this is an opportunity to build habits that show hustle, focus and skill in splitting responsibilities and using the working area. For evaluators, it’s a quick test of an umpire’s potential to advance, making it essential for umpires to use this play to refine their base work skills.
Ground Ball 2.0
The routine ground ball becomes more challenging with the possibility of a double play, but the goal remains to end up in the same position, ready for the close play at first base.
From the C position, this play often proves very difficult for umpires. This is because our goal is to get to the same positioning we would use in the B position for plays into first (see MechaniGram 4). Success here requires recognizing infield ground balls quickly and anticipating where the play will go. Developing this instinct in games is key; look for chances from the C position where you can cross the infield for plays ending at first.
DID YOU KNOW?
Art Williams’ path to becoming the first Black umpire in the NL is a testament to resilience and determination. Born in 1934 in Camden, Ark., he grew up in a sharecropping family, facing the hardships of segregation. Hoping for a better future, his family moved to Bakersfield, Calif., where Williams’ skill as a high school pitcher led to a contract with the Detroit Tigers, making him their first Black signee. His dreams of playing professionally ended after an arm injury.
From the B position, this is straightforward. As the ball is hit, the base umpire steps up, turns to watch the fielder, turns to the play at second, and then turns to view the out at first (see MechaniGram 3). This limited movement maintains the ideal position for ruling on the likely closer play at first.
Fly Ball Coverage
In a two-umpire crew with runners on base, positioning on fly balls is a crucial but often underdeveloped skill. Here, the base umpire, starting in the B or C position, covers fly balls from left to right field, focusing on boundary calls (i.e. home runs), catch/no catch and then all other responsibilities.
The first determination is whether the potential catch will be a trouble ball or a routine fly ball. A trouble ball, of course, is any ball that will need a call or decision from an umpire such as catch/no catch. Key indicators of this include converging fielders, diving or sliding outfielders, and potential boundary calls like home runs.
For a routine fly ball to left field with a runner on first and one out, the base umpire in the B position should immediately gauge the ball’s direction. They step with their right foot, pivot and stay chest-to-ball. Moving toward the ball, they gain distance for the catch call without leaving the working area. After calling the catch, the base umpire checks if the runner tags up and
Undeterred, Williams stayed involved in baseball, umpiring Little League and high school games while working a sanitation job to support his family. Friends encouraged him to pursue umpiring professionally and in 1969 he enrolled in umpire school. For anyone, reaching MLB as an umpire is a daunting task. For Williams, it was a monumental achievement. On Sept. 18, 1972, he worked his first game as the NL’s first Black umpire, an accomplishment for him and the umpire community.
SIDELINE
AFL Adds Replay for Checked Swings
The Arizona Fall League (AFL) has long been a testing ground for the MLB when looking at new rules or technology. The 2024 season was no exception when it added a challenge system for checked swings.
The process was similar to the automated ball-strike challenge system in that only the pitcher, catcher and batter could challenge the call. At that point, it went to replay. Of course, the issue most umpires immediately recognize is the definition of a “swing” or “checked swing” isn’t very clear in the Official Baseball Rules. It simply says a pitch is a strike if it is “struck at by the batter.”
For games using the automated system, the rule stated if the bat went beyond a 45-degree threshold from the front edge of home plate, it was a strike.
The system was only installed at one of the facilities hosting AFL games and does not appear to be on MLB’s radar for the near future.
TEST YOURSELF
In each question, decide which answer is correct for NFHS, NCAA or pro rules. Solutions: p. 81.
1. Can an outfielder catch an infield fly?
a. Yes.
b. No.
2. In the fifth inning, Jones is replaced as the pitcher with Smith. The team used a charged conference on defense in the second inning. Smith’s first two pitches are wild and the pitching coach comes out to talk to Smith to calm him down.
a. Eject the pitching coach immediately and Smith is removed after he finishes pitching to one batter.
b. Warn the pitching coach that he cannot make another conference. If he continues, he is ejected and the pitcher will be substituted for after he completes the at-bat.
c. Only allow the head coach to make the conference to the mound.
d. Allow the conference.
3. R1 and B2 are both between first and second base after a clean hit to the outfield when the left fielder throws the ball into third base. The ball gets past the third baseman and rolls into the dugout.
a. Both runners are awarded third base. Since they cannot both occupy third, the lead runner is awarded home.
b. The lead runner is awarded second and the batter-runner must remain at first.
c. Both the runner and the batter-runner are awarded home.
d. The lead runner is awarded third and the batter-runner is awarded second.
4. B1 hits a single to right field. At the time the bat hits the ball, the heel of B1’s front foot is on the chalk of the batter’s box. His toes are making contact with home plate.
a. This is legal.
b. This is an illegally batted ball. The batter is out.
adjusts toward that runner (see MechaniGram 5).
If the catch is a trouble ball, such as a potential diving catch, the mechanics are similar, with more movement toward the potential catch. The umpire can go the direction of the ball for a better view, just no further than the edge of the infield grass. U1 should avoid running beyond the infield grass, due to the need to maintain infield coverage (see MechaniGram 6). Building instincts to recognize trouble quickly is key for optimal positioning and accurate calls.
Let’s look at a play with R2 on second and one out. For a routine fly ball to center, R2 may look to tag up and advance. Knowing this, the base umpire can move into a position to line up the catch and the tag, then get over to third if there is a catch and advance. U1 still holds the catch/no catch call, but this allows U1 to focus on the tag to get as good a view as possible (see MechaniGram 7).
Tag Ups
This is another opportunity for umpires to demonstrate their ability to read plays as they develop.
The base umpire in a crew of two has all touches and tag-ups at first and second base. This does not relieve U1’s primary responsibility of catch/no catch. But, using our understanding of routine and trouble, we can use the working area to our advantage.
However, we can’t forget our order of responsibilities, especially on trouble balls. In the same scenario, let’s make it a trouble ball to right field. In this instance, our base umpire would have to go the direction of the ball to the grass/dirt line in the infield, trying for the best view of the catch. This also includes the need to see the entirety of the catch. Only after that can the base umpire see if R2 tagged up. This likely means we won’t have the best view for that, but we have to focus on our primary responsibility. Then, if R2 does tag and advance, we get back and across the working area toward third (see MechaniGram 8).
These plays are all great examples of shading toward the side of the field the ball is on. As you evaluate yourself and others going into the
2025 season, focus on mastering the working area. This advanced knowledge often separates great umpires from good ones.
Firmness and Fairness
By Jon Bible
From day one, umpires will encounter misconduct from players and coaches, especially at lower levels where sportsmanship issues are more common. This often results in our newest officials working games with some of the worst sportsmanship from players, coaches and parents. Because of this, umpires must quickly begin developing their skills for handling confrontations. This doesn’t happen overnight. Though experience is the best teacher, learning from others’ stories can make the
journey smoother. And, with over 50 years spent on the field and around umpires, I have certainly gathered my fair share.
What follows isn’t the only way to handle issues, and I’ll focus mostly on college and high school baseball, which comprised most of my career. That said, I think much of what I’ll cover applies at any level.
The Balanced Authority
How an umpire handles conduct on the field can make or break respect and game flow. While some adopt a quick-trigger approach and others lean
Patrick Faerber, Alpharetta, Ga., is a former professional umpire who now works high school baseball and football. He is Referee’s baseball coordinator.
toward leniency, the preferred style for most situations is the balanced authority. This approach combines firmness with fairness, allowing umpires to manage games smoothly while earning respect from players and coaches. Here’s a breakdown of each style, showing why balanced authority often leads to the best outcomes on the field.
1. The quick triggers. Quicktrigger umpires take inspiration from MLB, where maintaining immediate control is often necessary with professional players and coaches who operate with intensity and high stakes.
The rulebook isn’t built to prepare you for success. The College Baseball Rules Study Guide is.
Improve your rules, speed and accuracy so you can make it on the field and accomplish your goals when you get there.
Attention: COLLEGE BASEBALL UMPIRES
CASEPLAYS
Can We Just Play?
Play: With the bases loaded and two out, a left-handed pinch hitter is announced. The defensive coach makes a pitching change bringing in a left-handed reliever. The offensive coach counters with a new right-handed pinch hitter. The defensive coach then orders an intentional walk. Following the walk, the offensive coach announces another right-handed pinch hitter. The defensive coach wants to return to the mound to make another pitching change. Ruling: In NFHS and NCAA, a substitute pitcher has met his legal requirements if one batter completes an at-bat, including an intentional walk or if he retires the side. In pro, the pitcher must face three batters. (NFHS 3-1-1 Pen.; NCAA 5-5b; pro 5.10g).
Not So Fast
Play: With a runner on first base, one out and no count on the new batter, the pitcher is on the rubber and set to begin his delivery to the plate. The ball is currently in play. The batter is stepping into the box and has not reasonably come set. The umpire-in-chief, seeing the pitcher ready to deliver, wants to ensure the pitcher allows the batter to become set in the box and does not deliver a quick pitch. The umpire holds his right hand in a stop motion toward the pitcher. The pitcher disobeys the stop sign and delivers the pitch. Ruling: This ball is already dead due to the umpire’s signal. This is not a quick pitch and cannot be penalized as a ball or a balk (NFHS/NCAA Official Signals; pro no coverage).
Who Pitches First?
Play: Johnson is listed on the official lineup card as the pitcher for the visiting team. While warming up to pitch in the bottom of the first, he hurts his arm. His coach wants to move him to first base. Ruling: This is legal in all rules sets. In NFHS and pro, Johnson can remain in the game, but is not allowed to return to the mound (NFHS 3-3-1 Pen.; pro 5.10g). In NCAA, Johnson may return to pitch one time (5-5b Note 1).
In amateur settings, though, this approach can backfire. Quick triggers tend to establish authority by strictly enforcing boundaries and issuing swift ejections to show they’re in control. While effective in professional leagues, this approach can come across as overly harsh in high school or college games, where players are still learning. Amateur umpires who adopt this style may find themselves in frequent conflict, which disrupts the game flow and doesn’t foster respect from players and coaches.
2. The pushover. Pushover umpires allow players and coaches to stretch boundaries without repercussions, often to avoid confrontation. These umpires may overlook frequent gripes or tolerate disrespectful behavior to keep the peace. However, this approach can quickly erode authority, as players and coaches learn that they can push limits without consequences. Over time, a pushover umpire may struggle to enforce any boundaries at all, which can lead to frustration and disrespect on the field. While a soft approach might seem appealing to avoid conflict, being too lenient can ultimately make an umpire’s job
more challenging, as they may lose credibility with teams.
3. The balanced authority. Balanced authority umpires strike a fine line between maintaining control and allowing fair leeway for competitive expression. They listen to players and coaches, manage minor complaints without escalating, and only enforce discipline when absolutely necessary. These umpires keep their cool, using a calm tone and strategic positioning to prevent confrontation. Their reputation for fairness earns respect, allowing them to control the game smoothly. By enforcing boundaries consistently and respectfully, these umpires demonstrate authority without harshness, fostering a cooperative and respectful game environment. Aspiring umpires often aim to adopt this balanced approach, as it promotes both discipline and respect on the field.
Keys for Handling Misconduct
1. Know when to ignore minor griping. Not every complaint needs a response. If a player makes a minor remark, such as grumbling about a call without eye contact, it’s often best to ignore it and keep the game moving.
Conversations with coaches are part of the baseball culture, and umpire Jordan Truppner, Everett, Wash., has to determine what he is willing to listen to and when he must take action to warn or eject.
PAGES
MECHANICS
INSTRUCTION
The official NFHS baseball umpires manual produced jointly by the editors of Referee & the NFHS! Loaded with dozens of mechanics scenarios and featuring Referee’s exclusive PlayPic® and MechaniGram® graphics, this new resource is a must have for high school baseball umpires. Mechanics are broken down into one, two, three and fourumpire systems as well as providing detailed coverage for all situations.
YOU’VE NEVER SEEN AN UMPIRES MANUAL LIKE THIS ONE!
2. Let coaches speak first. If a coach comes out, let him speak first; you may not know what he wants to discuss. You also have a more confident demeanor when you don’t jump to defend your calls.
3. Use a firm yet calm tone. Maintain a steady, calm voice, even in tense situations. Even if the coach is yelling and animated, he will come down to match your tone if you don’t raise your voice. It takes two to have a heated argument so there can’t be one if you won’t participate. Also keep in mind, the words “calm down” have never influenced someone to calm down. Only your tone and body language can do so.
4. Establish physical boundaries. If a coach gets in your face, say, “You’re too close. Back up, and we’ll talk.” Often, this will surprise him and lower the temperature. If you both make your points and the discussion continues, say, “Coach, we’re going in circles. Let’s go,” and walk away. Usually, he’ll sputter for a couple of seconds and leave. If he doesn’t, tell him he’s pushing the envelope, and if he still won’t go, goodbye.
5. Minimize confrontation. Position yourself strategically to avoid unnecessary encounters. For example, if a coach went to the mound, I would go to the foul line opposite his dugout so he wouldn’t pass me going back. This distance usually deterred them from a confrontation, and if they pursued me, it was clear who the aggressor was.
6. End discussions with winning words. If griping is prolonged, we must stop it or people will walk all over us. This can be hard if we’re not yet brimming with confidence, but it’s essential. Do it the right way with your winning words. Don’t point in people’s faces or say, “Shut up” or, “One more word and you’re gone!” These things put people on the defensive and will not make them dial it down.
7. Formal warnings, not dramatic. Some rules provide for formal warnings. Be careful how you do this. If we whip out our lineup card and make a big to-do of giving someone a black mark, it can seem school-markish and provocative. Calmly issue your warning and note it on your card.
8. Recognize your line and stick to it. Avoid a line in the sand for as long
as possible. Because once you draw that line, you will appear weak if you don’t enforce it. So don’t draw a line you are not ready to enforce.
People knew I had reached my limit when I stuck out my hand and said, “Enough!” Maybe I’d have to repeat myself — once — but 99% of the time this did the trick. The rare times it didn’t, goodbye.
9. Know the automatics. When was my line crossed? Someone not getting quiet after I’d said, “Enough” or issued a warning. Calling me a name prefaced by “You” or “You’re.” Directing profanity at me. Throwing a cap, helmet or glove. Waving arms while griping. A pitcher coming down off the mound to challenge a call. A batter drawing a line in the dirt with his bat to signify that the pitch was outside. (Once I took the bat, drew an arrow at the end of the line, and told the batter to follow it to the locker room, but I wouldn’t advise that in this YouTube era.)
Jon Bible, Austin, Texas, worked seven NCAA Division I College World Series. In 2019, he was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame in Lubbock, Texas.
Interference or a Brief Interruption?
Think you know the difference between backswing and followthrough interference? You might be surprised. This deep dive breaks down key rule variations across NFHS, NCAA and professional baseball that every umpire needs to understand.
Let’s start with the NFHS rules code because, unlike other codes, it provides definitions for both acts.
2-21-4: “Follow-through interference is when the bat hits the catcher after the batter has swung at a pitch and hinders action at home plate or the catcher’s attempt to play on a runner.”
2-21-5: “Backswing interference is when a batter contacts the catcher or the catcher’s equipment prior to the time of the pitch” (see PlayPic A).
This is a great place to start for umpires learning the rules because it’s the most clear definition provided.
Unfortunately, the NCAA and pro rules don’t provide nearly as much clarity.
In pro rules, the term “backswing” is used only once, in rule 6.03a(3): “If a batter strikes at a ball and misses and swings so hard he carries the bat all the way around and, in the umpire’s judgment, unintentionally hits the catcher or the ball in back of him on the backswing.”
The term “follow-through” does not exist in the rules at all but is in the index, where it is given as an alternative to “backswing.”
The NCAA rules are different from the others in that they use the terms “backswing” and “follow-through” interchangeably.
NCAA 6-2d: “If a batter swings and misses a pitch and … unintentionally hits the catcher or the ball in back of
them in the backswing …
If the follow-through hits the catcher and occurs in a situation where the batter normally would become a runner because of a third strike not held by the catcher …
… the batter is in the batter’s box and their normal follow-through unintentionally strikes the catcher or the ball.”
Let’s answer the first question most umpires have here: Do the professional or NCAA rules provide a definition for backswing interference?
The answer to this is no, but they do still provide a ruling for these situations.
Pro 5.05b(3) comment: “If the catcher interferes with the batter before the pitcher delivers the ball, it shall not be considered interference on the batter under rule 5.05(b)(3). In such
cases, the umpire shall call ‘Time’ and the pitcher and batter start over from scratch.”
NCAA 8-2e Note: “If a batter, during preliminary warmup swings, hits the catcher or the catcher’s mitt during the backswing, the umpire immediately should call time and not interference. The pitch or swing should not be allowed since the batter’s concentration or rhythm could be affected.”
Both rule sets make it clear this is an immediate dead ball and that no pitch shall occur. They both also clarify this is not interference by the catcher. This, of course, is contradictory to the NFHS rules, which define this as “backswing interference.” However, we end up with the same outcome in the NFHS rules.
NFHS 5-1-1n: “Ball becomes dead immediately when backswing interference occurs.” This same outcome is given again in 7-3-7, which lists the only penalty as “the ball is immediately dead.”
Now that we’ve clarified what the NFHS refers to as “backswing interference,” let’s analyze “followthrough interference” (see PlayPic B).
The NCAA rules provide the most straightforward directions for ruling when backswing interference occurs.
NCAA 6-2d: “If a batter swings and misses a pitch and carries the bat all the way around and, in the umpire’s judgment, unintentionally hits the catcher or the ball in back of them in the backswing, it shall be called a strike only (not interference). The ball will be dead, however, and no runner shall advance on the play.
1) If the follow-through hits the catcher and occurs in a situation where the batter normally would become a runner because of a third strike not held by the catcher, the ball shall be dead and the batter declared out. No runner shall advance.
2) If the catcher is in the act of making a throw to retire a runner and the batter is in the batter’s box and their normal follow-through unintentionally strikes the catcher or the ball while the catcher is in the act of throwing, ‘Time’ is called and runners return (unless the catcher’s
initial throw directly retires the runner).”
This compares to the professional rule, which is 6.03a(3) comment: “If a batter strikes at a ball and misses and swings so hard he carries the bat all the way around and, in the umpire’s judgment, unintentionally hits the catcher or the ball in back of him on the backswing, it shall be called a strike only (not interference). The ball will be dead, however, and no runner shall advance on the play.”
The professional rule is much shorter than the NCAA version, but the outcomes are the same for both. Backswing interference is not interference as given anywhere else in the rules.
The strike counts, but it is not an immediate out.
It is a delayed dead ball. If the throw retires the runner, the interference is ignored. If the throw does not, then the only penalty is that runners are returned to their base at the time of the pitch.
Unfortunately, the NFHS rules do not show as much leniency as they make it clear that follow-through interference is interference.
7-3-5c: “Interfere with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by … making any other movement, including followthrough interference, which hinders actions at home plate or the catcher’s attempt to play on a runner.”
Thus, what professional and NCAA baseball justify as incidental is treated as a significant infraction in NFHS baseball. This is just like the penalty given in all three for a batter falling over the plate and interfering with a catcher’s throw.
NFHS 7-3-5 penalty: “When there are two outs, the batter is out. …
When an attempt to put out a runner [at any base other than home] is unsuccessful, the batter is out and all runners must return to bases occupied at the time of the pitch. If the pitch is a third strike and in the umpire’s judgment interference prevents a possible double play (additional outs), two may be ruled out.”
PREVENT THE PREVENTABLE
Prematch Communication: Talk It Out
By Tim Sloan
One of the keys to successful officiating is not just to show up for a match but to arrive.
You can be in a class by yourself at judging double hits and jumping on a back-row attack. You might have that knack for captains and coaches to eat out of your hand. All of that can be wasted, however, if you don’t see to the little things from the moment you walk through the door. I find that so many bad nights start when the
referees let themselves be betrayed by the well-meaning help that surrounds them.
It’s always a good idea to visit and have a dialog with everyone assigned to assist at the match. Confirm what you want them to do rather than simply expecting they’ll do it. That includes people you might have known for years, but those conversations could be a bit shorter. I would add you should have no plans to ease off this regimen as the season progresses; it’s interesting how many
people seem to forget their duties from one week to the next; interpret that any way you want.
When I walk into a venue, the first person I want to see is the athletic director or the assigned host. That’s because I contacted the school a few days beforehand and confirmed the details of the event. While I was at it, I traded phone numbers with the person who would be looking after my partner and me. Finally, I shared our ETA, so that person would be on the lookout to help us settle in. When
In order to have a successful match, referees must have communication with a lot of different people prior to the match. One such group is the table crew. Here, Kelly Talsma, Bellflower, Calif., takes a few minutes to converse with the scorer prior to the match to gauge her comfort level and experience and also explain how things will be handled in the upcoming match.
I meet the host, I want to confirm some things right there and then rather than try to track them down in a panic 10 minutes before showtime: “Who are my line judges tonight? Who’s going to step in if there are any problems? What special activities are planned?” If you know these answers before taking the floor, you can focus on the game once you’re there. Conversely, if any of your queries are met with stumped silence, the host has lots of time to react and straighten things out.
If I’m working with an unfamiliar partner, I will usually have contacted them at the same time I called the athletic director. That might not be possible if they’re one of seven other people at a tournament. Making that first contact helps avoid the specter of showing up alone or not matching my choice of fashion with theirs. Once at the game, I’ll make sure to have a quick mechanics review with the person. I won’t pitch this as instructions from on high, but as a calibration event. I find that softening the interaction by asking leading questions helps. “How will you signal if you have a net violation?” and “When will I know I’ve got the court back after a substitution?” are examples. When asking passively, you don’t put them on the defensive and accomplish two things: You show respect for them and find out quickly if you need to do some tutoring. Do what you must to get onto the same page and keep the wolves at bay when the game starts.
Once on the floor, take a good look at the facility. If chairs are too close to the floor, move them before anyone tries to use them. Look up and decide which overhead items are over playable or unplayable areas. If there are cheerleaders or yearbook photographers around, visit with them and make sure they know where you don’t want them to be. Of course, check the net, balls, platform and padding, making any necessary changes before traffic becomes too heavy.
Get with the line judges in a secluded area. That gives you a better chance of having their undivided attention. You can also demonstrate
the signals you want without appearing to onlookers like you’re talking down to them. In my area, line judges are adults who have volunteered, or been volunteered, to help. Even if they tell me they know what to do, I go over everything with them anyway: Trust, but verify. I like to use the interaction to look into their eyes for apprehension, disinterest or lack of understanding. Any of these red flags mean it will take more work to get them ready.
A similar exercise is collaborating with people at the table. It begins with them putting away their cell phones; you’d think that would be simple. At a varsity match, the scorekeeper usually knows what he or she’s doing but, again, perhaps not in the federation format. I clarify that with them and make sure tonight they’re doing it “the army way” for our purposes. The libero tracker has a better chance of being uninitiated. If I suspect that’s the case, I take preventive action. I get my host to find someone — anyone — with some experience to at least coach them until they come to grips with this relatively simple task. A confused tracker can let you down by creating an avoidable illegal substitution or a serve out of order; a good scorer can help prevent these issues, but I don’t want the scorekeeper babysitting the tracker and losing focus. I also instruct the timer what I want the clock set to and when I need to hear a horn. Then, the first couple of times the operator is cued during the warmup, I make a point of double checking that person absorbed the conversation.
If there are going to be ball shaggers, I make sure we’re working together to avoid mishaps. My personal preference is to have them keep still when players are serving and to be deliberate to avoid a stray ball interfering with play.
OK, we’re almost ready. Before I call the captains, I take the opportunity to visit with the coaches and hand them our crew card. I remind them then to bring along their roster and get their players to lose their illegal jewelry. This averts cheap sanctions leading to bad moods. Our
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) this year utilized a multisport video review system supplied by Hawk-Eye Innovations to help with video review. In all volleyball contests at SEC home venues, 12 dedicated highspeed cameras were added to the existing broadcast cameras, including six “pylon” cameras on the playing surface to capture in/out reviews. In all SEC conference matches, a designated review referee at the scorer’s table reviewed the plays in question and had sole authority on all review outcomes. The R2 had this responsibility in all nonconference matches.
“The addition of this technology in soccer and volleyball represents a continued commitment to the support of our officiating programs and reducing incorrect officiating outcomes during competition,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. DID YOU KNOW?
SIDELINE
USAV Improves Pay and Benefits
In October, USAV announced it was implementing a pay increase and improved benefits for officials working at its owned 2024-25 indoor and beach volleyball events. At the top end of the pay scale, FIVB or continental-level international officials will make $57 per match. At an indoor event, a national-level official will make $55. Line judges will make $43 per match. On the beach, a head referee will earn $400 for a full day of work and $300 for a half day. Benefits also include a $20 per diem for food along with free snacks and water, free housing and Mizuno gear.
“Officials are essential for USA Volleyball events,” said Pati Rolf, USAV director of officials. “Our officials are some of the best in the world. They take time away from their families and other activities and sometimes other jobs to work our events and they should be compensated for that.”
TEST YOURSELF
In each of the following you are given a situation and at least two possible answers. You are to decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS, NCAA or USAV rules, which might vary. Solutions: p. 81.
1. Team A’s coach submits a lineup which includes A7. When the second referee checks the lineup, there is no A7 on the court. The coach states there is no A7 on the roster and it should have been A17. How is this corrected?
a. The coach is permitted a substitution, A17 for A7, and it does not count as a team substitution.
b. The coach is permitted a substitution, A17 for A7, and it counts as a team substitution.
c. The coach is permitted to correct the lineup, and a delay sanction is assessed.
d. The team is assessed a loss of rally/point to the opponent for submitting an incorrect lineup.
2. What is the required depth of the service zone?
a. Two meters (6 ft., 6 in.), or the match will not be played.
b. Two meters (6 ft., 6 3/4 in.); if that much space is not available, a line is placed within the court boundaries to provide 2 meters.
c. Six feet; if that much space is not available, a line is placed within the court boundaries to provide 6 feet.
d. There is no minimum depth for the service zone.
3. When does set one officially end and the clock started to time the interval between sets?
a. When the first referee signals the teams to their benches.
b. After the teams have changed benches.
c. When the first referee signals end of set.
d. When the first referee signals to change sides.
4. When are lineups due for sets two through five?
a. At least 15 seconds before the expiration of the interval between sets.
b. At least 30 seconds before the expiration of the interval between sets.
c. At least 60 seconds before the expiration of the interval between sets.
d. Prior to the whistle ending the interval between sets.
state has some esoteric rules about shagging during the warmup and I ask the coach to prevent potential problems with this, too, so we’re not running around fixing them.
By the time the captains’ meeting starts, there should be no significant surprises. I make sure to be upbeat, audible and affirmative in covering sportsmanship and equipment, then reviewing the ground rules. By the time we break up, I’m hoping everyone has a feel that things are in good hands.
The main idea of the story is to
run the game. Don’t just show up, blow the whistle until someone has won three sets and leave: Prevent the preventable. Treat people with dignity and be proactive. When you elevate your helpers, they tend to try harder for you.
The “team” on a volleyball match really consists of all the people I’ve described. The referee’s job is to be the leader. Make it happen.
Tim Sloan, Davenport, Iowa, is a high school football, basketball and volleyball official, and former college football and soccer official.
Standard Bearer
By Brad Tittrington
Referees
have a tough job. They have to make hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions every match. It can be draining to have to figure out the legality of every single touch of the ball as well as in/out decisions, rotations, alignments and a slew of other decisions.
However, there are a couple of decisions referees must make in the prematch that can ultimately decide the fate of the match. These decisions have to do with the volleyball net standards and I would bet the majority of us take those for granted.
Normally, the net is set up before we ever enter the gym. And in a lot of cases, the net is set to the right height, the antennas are in place and the net stand is attached properly. However, it would behoove all referees to take a few minutes to check the referee stand prematch to make sure it is properly attached, it is safe to climb up onto and the base of it is secure to hold your weight for the match. Otherwise, the results could be tragic. If you have worked long enough, you have most likely either climbed up on a ladder and had it sway or give out or even worse, you have fallen off a ladder during play. This is extremely
When working matches with extraordinarily large standards, such as these, it is important for officials like Nikki Kathol, Gilbert, Ariz., to prematch those with partners.
dangerous and has led to some serious accidents. This is why referees are instructed to check equipment before each match, even if you have been to a school a multitude of times. While we would like to think the schools are doing everything in their power to keep us safe, ultimately it is our responsibility to check the stands and standards to make sure they are safe and secure not only for the participants, but also for us.
And while it is important to check the referee stand, it is also important to see what is lurking on the second referee’s side of the court. Not all standards are the same. Not all are just a single pole in the ground with padding around it.
Many colleges, and even some high schools, use multi-sport facilities to host their volleyball matches. These facilities often don’t have holes in the floor. Instead they use aboveground systems, like the one used in the photo on p. 66. In these instances,
CASEPLAYS
Libero Leg Lift
Play: The ball is passed to the libero, who is standing with one foot in front of the attack line and one foot behind it. Just before setting the ball (using overhand finger action), the libero lifts the foot that is touching the court in front of the attack line. A teammate then attacks the ball while it is entirely above the height of the net resulting in a completed attack. The referees allow play to continue. Ruling: The referees’ decision is correct. When the libero lifted the foot that was touching the court in front of the attack line, the libero was no longer considered to be in the front zone. For a fault to occur in this situation, the libero must be touching the court on or in front of the attack line at the moment the libero “sets” the ball (NFHS 9-5-6b; NCAA 12.1.2.5; USAV 19.3.1.4).
Self Defense
Play: During a rally, team A’s libero moves to a position behind the blockers in the front zone. A team B attacker hits the ball, which rebounds from the arm of a team A blocker directly toward the face of team A’s libero. To protect herself, the libero places both open hands above her head to try to deflect the ball. The ball hits the team A libero’s hands and rebounds into the air. A1, a front-row player, completes an attack-hit while the ball is entirely above the top of the net. The first referee whistles and signals an illegal attack on team A and indicates the libero’s playing action made the attack illegal. Ruling: The first referee’s decision is incorrect. It is a fault for the libero to use an overhand finger pass (“setting action”) to pass the ball to a teammate (NFHS 9-5-6b; NCAA 12.1.2.5; USAV 19.3.1.4). However, even though the ball hit the libero’s hands while she was in the front zone, the libero’s contact was a reaction and defensive in nature. The fact that the libero’s hands were open does not automatically result in an overhand finger pass. In all codes, this should be ruled a legal play.
the second referee’s side looks more similar to the first referee’s side, with a smaller stand. These weighted standards can cause a lot of problems, and it is important for referees to talk about mechanics and safety before the match in order to not get surprised during the match.
As you can see from the photo, there isn’t a lot of room to maneuver between the standard at the scorer’s table. And while second referees often get squeezed as when working tournaments with multiple courts, we aren’t as used to it in single matches, and especially not at the highest levels. In these types of matches, it is important for the first and second referee to prematch some additional responsibilities.
The first thing to discuss is the centerline. The first referee will need to assist the second referee when it comes to calling centerline faults. While the second referee may be able to see the centerline on plays at the center of the net and plays near the first referee’s side of the court, on plays close to the pin on the second referee’s side of the court (as shown in the PlayPic on the previous page), the second referee may not be able to see any part of the centerline. The standard, being as bulky and wide as it is, may obstruct
Hide ‘N’ Seek
Rotations and alignments are perhaps the most difficult responsibilities for referees. For newer referees, this is especially true. And coaches are more and more clever on how they align their players in order to gain the greatest advantage, which can confuse referees who may not be adept at understanding alignments and overlaps.
There are a couple of situations where coaches try to hide their setters, both in an attempt to keep their setters from having the first contact on a serve as well as deceive the opponent. And while trying to deceive the opponent, they may also deceive the referees if they aren’t paying special attention to what rotation the team is in currently.
the second referee’s view of the play. On these types of plays, the first referee may need to assist in making those centerline faults (this also puts additional pressure on the line judges as the first referee may not be able to stay with blocks very long as they may have to focus on the feet as soon as the ball is contacted in order to make sure both the attacker and blockers don’t cross the centerline and interfere).
Referees can remind each other over headsets if they are wearing them to keep an eye on these situations as well. It is a little more difficult to convey if officials aren’t wearing headsets. And the first referee may need a reminder in-between sets if the second referee notices the first referee isn’t providing help in these situations. Remember, this goes against prescribed mechanics so it is important to communicate.
Always take a few minutes when you first arrive on the court to check out the standards. This will keep you from getting surprised once the match starts. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Brad Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He umpires D-I softball and officiates high school basketball, college and high school volleyball and high school football.
Two common rotations are rotation five (setter is in center-front position) and rotation six (setter is in right-front position) where coaches hide their setters.
First, let’s dive into rotation six (as shown in MechaniGram A on the next page). In this rotation, the setter is in the right-front position (RF), but coaches hide the setter behind the center-back (CB) to make the opponents think there are still three hitters in the front row. The CB in this situation will often fake an attack from this formation to draw the blockers, which will allow the setter, who is actually in the front row, the option of attacking, dumping or setting the ball to one of the other two front-row
attackers. If referees are not cognizant of this alignment, it could lead to an incorrect whistle if one of the referees believes the setter is in the backrow and then attacks the ball above the height of the net. It could also potentially lead to an illegal back-row attack if the CB decided to attack the ball in the front zone above the height of the net. While the second referee is ultimately responsible for knowing the formation of the receiving team, this is a situation where headsets could come in handy for the referees to remind each other the setter is in the front row.
Another situation, illustrated in MechaniGram B, occurs in rotation five, where the setter starts in the center-front position (CF). Here, the setter is stacked with the right-front (RF) and again the CB will fake an attack (even though the CB is back row). Here, the second referee needs to make sure CF and RF don’t overlap as well as CF and CB.
This is why alignments and rotations are extremely important for referees to understand.
5 MINUTES
WITH
SUZANNE LOWRY
AVP head referee discusses growth of beach volleyball and how referees can get involved.
Residence: Lyman, S.C.
Experience: Head referee for the AVP; former PAVO Board of Directors directorat-large; worked the 2014 NCAA Women’s Indoor Volleyball Championship as a line judge; worked multiple NCAA Women’s Beach Volleyball Championships; worked the 2023 FIVB World Beach Championships in Tlaxcala, Mexico; was the R1 for the 2023 University of Nebraska outdoor match that set a women’s sporting event record with 92,003 attendees.
REFEREE: How do referees get started in beach?
LOWRY: Generally most officials start indoors. Everybody doesn’t want to be in the sun or in the cold. We certainly recruit people we think would have the right attitude. We like to say on the beach you have to speak “dude.” It’s much more casual. An interesting thing about the beach, it is against the rules for the coaches to interact with the referees. You have to talk to the athletes and in the AVP it’s Olympic gold medalists you are having to talk to and explain rules and that sort of thing. We try to find some of that right persona or people sort of invite themselves out. I am trying more and more to recruit young people to start refereeing volleyball on the beach because of that coaching rule. You can learn how to make decisions and be present in the stand and confident without having to deal with some of those behavior issues. It’s an interesting conundrum there.
REFEREE: What are some of the ways beach is different than indoors?
LOWRY: Most of the time, you are working by yourself. You are the first referee, the second referee, the line judges and the scorer. You keep the scoresheet on the clipboard there on the referee stand with you. We have a lot of people who are great indoor referees who can’t handle the scoresheet and looking up and looking down and making sure you have the right player serving.
REFEREE: The atmosphere in beach is much different than indoor. Do you see that as a positive or negative?
LOWRY: I think it’s positive. But again, I am coming from a beach perspective. I think I am approachable and confident both on the beach and indoor, but I don’t know that I’d be as
confident if I didn’t have my beach experience. That sort of helps you develop another skill set that I don’t think a lot of indoor referees develop so early, so quickly. I think that certainly has been a benefit for me. I think it has made me a bit more impatient. For example, on the beach, music is playing all the time. It’s just sort of in the background, but sometimes it’s too loud and I have to be like, “Get off my lawn. Turn that music down.” Because there are balls rolling around and lots of courts going on, I think I am a little more impatient with the stuff indoors. It’s like, “Come on DJ, turn that off. Don’t make we wait on you to start this rally.”
REFEREE: The indoor game has seen a shortage of officials; do you have that same issue on the beach?
LOWRY: We’ve added like 500 referees in the last five years, it is crazy, probably even more than that. People who are coaching college teams now are former AVP pros. Previously, there weren’t that many beach referees, and everybody to get to the level of the AVP had to be pretty damn good. Now these coaches are used to the top referees in the country refereeing their matches. We don’t have that level of referee all over the country. We are real careful how we assign and we try to make sure there is what we call an alpha on site, you know someone at that caliber that can answer questions and stuff. Having people understand that it takes years to develop into that level of referee.
REFEREE: If referees want to get involved in the beach game, how should they go about doing so?
LOWRY: Referees can send an email to beachofficial@usav.org.
GETTING IT RIGHT INSPIRATION,
What’s Your Why?
By Steven L. Tietz
With all the challenges facing officiating these days, including much-misplaced derision and an aging and smaller workforce, NFHS Director of Officiating Services
Dana Pappas felt the hard-working avocation needed an outlet, a place where those who blow the whistle could express their thoughts as to why they still find the job cool and why they still do it.
That’s how the NFHS weekly social media phenomenon
#What’sMyWhy Wednesday was born in August 2023.
“We were experiencing shortages, exacerbated by the pandemic and everything you saw (about officiating) was just so negative,” Pappas said. “So, we wanted to find a way to tell some positive stories, highlight all the good stuff you don’t normally hear about. This is an opportunity for officials to tell their stories (and) for the NFHS to celebrate who they are.”
Missie Wilcox, a lacrosse official from Maryland, is one who has participated in the campaign.
“(Officiating) allows me to become part of something bigger than me,” she said.
Wilcox’s on-point comment is just a small part of the 60-plus stories that have been posted on X (formerly
known as Twitter), LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram so far.
State associations can submit ideas to Pappas at the NFHS (dpappas@nfhs.org). She will in turn send them instructions on how to create the roughly 90-second videos.
There is no set storyline, according to Pappas, though how they started officiating and why they still do it should be included. Officials young and old have been involved with all kinds of origin stories. Wilcox, for example, got into lacrosse watching her future husband play it in college.
A new video is posted every week. Most get around 10,000 views, with a story from a volleyball official in Nebraska reaching 25,000 hits.
Pappas is looking to get submissions from all 51 state associations (District of Columbia included). As of October 2024, she has received 61 videos from 29 state groups.
“Our goal remains to have at least one official from each state,” she said. New Mexico, Wyoming, Wisconsin and Louisiana have been the most enthusiastic participants so far.
“We want to hear from you as to why it’s so great to be an official,” Pappas said. “Tell people why they should be an official.”
One good story involved a father-daughter basketball duo from Indiana who bonded over hoops and officiating. Others have involved personal evolution.
“What began as me selfishly desiring money (from officiating) changed into me selflessly giving back to my officiating community,” Georgia’s Sonya Heilig said.
That’s the kind of insight Pappas thinks can help change officiating’s image.
“The comments have been very positive,” Pappas said. “It’s all about building community and humanizing the official. See the person (the official) as your neighbor, your mailman. Put a face on the stripes.” Steven L. Tietz is an award-winning sportswriter from Milwaukee.
Helping the Homeless
Nigel Holman, a 33-year soccer referee in New Mexico, has made hundreds of rulings on the field in his career. But his recent decision off the pitch might have had the greatest impact. Holman donated all of his referee match fees for the month of September 2024 to support the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope in southern New Mexico. His donation was used to support the residents at the Community of Hope’s Tent City and assist them when they move into permanent homes.
Holman has been a volunteer at the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope and their annual campaign to raise money gave him the idea to donate his game checks for a few weeks.
“Nobody chooses to live on the street,” Holman said. “I could see commonalities of me as a referee running around out in the heat being shouted at and the real-life experiences of the unhoused people in Las Cruces.”
SOURCE: NEW MEXICO ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION
Whistle Up Louisiana
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) announced in September it has formed a partnership with the NBA to address the officiating shortage ahead of the high school basketball season. LHSAA’s initiative, “Whistle Up Louisiana 2024,” is a program aimed to attract recent high school graduates to officiating by offering hands-on training and support.
“We’re trying to think outside the box and find new ways to attract people,” LHSAA Assistant Executive Director Lee Sanders said. “This partnership with the NBA’s Officiating Operations Office and the Junior NBA is an exciting step in that direction. The New Orleans Pelicans have been great partners in helping us engage young people.”
The initiative offers recent high school graduates access to mentorship programs, officiating clinics and opportunities to join local officials associations.
SOURCE: UNFILTERED WITH KIRAN
Have you heard an inspirational or motivational officiating story? Send your ideas to GettingItRight@referee.com
Dana Pappas, NFHS director of officiating services, started a social media campaign to recognize sports officials.
The official NFHS softball umpires manual produced jointly by the editors of Referee & the NFHS! Loaded with dozens of mechanics scenarios and featuring Referee’s exclusive PlayPic® and MechaniGram® graphics, this new resource is a must have for high school softball umpires. Mechanics are broken down into one, two, three and fourumpire systems as well as providing detailed coverage for all situations.
YOU’VE NEVER SEEN AN UMPIRES MANUAL LIKE THIS ONE!
OPEN MIC
PRO Referees Prepared, Practiced for VAR Announcements
On April 20, 2024, referee Ramy Touchan stepped forward to do something he had never done in his seven years of officiating MLS matches.
In the 42nd minute, Touchan moved to a clear spot on the field and turned to face the halfway line camera. He blew his whistle, signaled that a video replay decision had been reached and pressed a button on his belt.
His headset carried his voice to the 30,550 people in attendance for the Seattle Sounders vs. Vancouver Whitecaps match at Lumen Field in Seattle.
“After review, No. 25 green committed a serious foul play offense,” Touchan said. “The
final decision is red card.”
The smoothness of the announcement could have left the impression MLS referees did this all the time. In fact, this was the first in-stadium referee announcement in the league’s history.
Chris Rivett, PRO director of communications and external relations, picks up the story and gives insights into how officials prepared for in-stadium announcements:
At its annual general meeting in March 2023, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) approved trials of broadcasting in-stadium video review decisions for FIFA tournaments, and the concept rose to prominence during the 2023
Those trials were extended last year to competitions that followed FIFA’s refereeing and technology guidelines, and various leagues across the world, with permission from IFAB, began implementing live video review announcements. This led to MLS becoming the first domestic league where English is the primary spoken language to begin explaining VAR decisions in April 2024.
The concept had been first discussed back in 2018 and was something on which both PRO and MLS were keen to lead the way.
A lot of detailed planning went into making sure that first announcement — and all that would follow — would
FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Referee Ramy Touchan makes the first in-stadium VAR announcement in MLS history.
proceed with polish.
A working group with MLS was put together, led by Alan Kelly, PRO’s director of senior match officials; Sandro Ricci, PRO’s manager of senior referees, and myself. The process began by analyzing each announcement from the Women’s World Cup and establishing what worked well and what hadn’t.
From there, we started to build a framework, with input from our senior match officials, of how announcements would be structured.
The work served to finetune the processes and get officials comfortable making announcements around each other, in front of cameras, and eventually, in empty stadiums before going live.
The opportunity to announce decisions increases the spotlight on the officials and makes video review an even bigger moment in the game for fans, so establishing a six-month program with time committed to preparing at every camp was vital to create consistency across the group.
From the outset, it was agreed the announcements would not be scripted, and the continual rehearsals and
evaluations have highlighted the importance of the choice of language and executing the decision from a stationary position to the main camera for maximum clarity and authority.
The balance PRO has strived to find is being concise and informative without quoting law in great detail, and the format of the announcement will continue evolving as officials become more comfortable with the process.
The process, from drawing the TV screen to completing the announcement, took 11 seconds on average, five seconds shorter than what we initially anticipated. We’re very pleased with how they have integrated
into the game without creating significant delays.
These incidents can be extremely complicated, so the main objective for 2024 was to get everyone used to the public announcements. Our goal was to improve the experience for fans, and the feedback we have received from around the world has been positive.
As we move forward, we’re constantly seeking feedback from stakeholders and assessing how this can evolve and add value to the game.
PRO referees practiced for VAR announcements ahead of the 2024 season.
PRO referee Guido Gonzales Jr. is filmed making an announcement during training in Dallas.
PRO referee Rubiel Vazquez works with Alan Kelly, PRO’s director of senior match officials.
Chris Rivett, PRO’s director of communications, leads a classroom session for senior referees.
ARRIVE READY
Exude Your Sense of Purpose
By the Referee editors
Imagine you’re the human resource director and you’re conducting interviews for a key position in your company. A candidate enters your office with uncombed hair, wearing a dirty T-shirt with an adult saying splashed across its front and no résumé. When asked why the applicant seeks employment at your company, the reply is, “The unemployment people told me I have to look or I lose my benefits.”
Now you know what coaches might be thinking when you show up at their game and don’t act like you’re there with a purpose. You can have the greatest judgment in the world but if your appearance, mannerisms and enthusiasm level are below par, it won’t matter. Your credibility will be shot and the likelihood of getting more and better games will suffer.
Before the Game
The best officials exude confidence but not cockiness. They look like they belong on the court or field. They’re not jumpy or overtly anxious. And they appear as if they want to be there.
Whether it’s the conference championship or a battle of the basement, looks matter even before the first pitch or play.
Avoid talking to spectators, which gives the impression you may have an affiliation with or affinity for one of the teams. If you talk to the coaches beforehand, try to spend an equal amount of time with each. Again, appearances matter.
With a strong signal and a look of confidence, onlookers can tell Sara Hancock, Rockford, Mich., can handle this or any other assignment. A professional demeanor and appearance before and during a game increases an official’s chances at advancement.
The Captains Meeting
Depending on the sport, the pregame meeting with captains presents an opportunity for one or more officials to show the players your competence. Use the pregame meeting to decide who’s going to say and do what. Will everyone shake hands with everyone? Where will everyone be positioned?
If you’re conducting the meeting, mentally practice what you’re going to say. If a coin flip is involved, will you catch it or let it drop to the ground? How will you react if a captain chooses the “wrong” option? Will you allow a mulligan or make the captain stick with the initial choice?
The Opening Minutes
Many a game has gone downhill because the officials were caught napping from the start of the game. Football officials know there’s nothing like a mishandled onside kick on the opening kickoff to set the wheels of disaster in motion. Having the teams going the wrong way on the opening jump ball or a waist-high pitch down the middle called a ball to start the game do nothing to enhance credibility.
Perfect starts don’t guarantee everything will go smoothly the rest of the way, but get things going properly and you won’t cast doubt immediately in coaches’ minds.
Timeouts
Breaks in the action — timeouts, between innings and other intermissions — provide time to regroup, mentally and physically. While monitoring your teams, use the break to review game situations. What’s the foul count? How many timeouts or defensive conferences does each team have left? Is a coach sending in mass substitutions?
As you await the resumption of play, assume a body position that makes it appear you’ve still got energy to spare. If it’s late in the game, think over the game situation. Prepare for one team or the other’s desire to call timeout or to foul, depending on the result of the next play and the sport. Don’t be
afraid to convene a crew huddle if it helps. You should never be unprepared after a timeout.
Resuming Play
Be sure to make eye contact with the other officials before putting the ball back in play coming out of a break. The players also need to be aware you’re about to restart. Are they in position or is someone getting a last-second drink or tying a shoelace? Don’t inadvertently give one team an advantage, which will appear to conspiracy-loving fans as favoritism of one team.
There is one situation that does call for a bit of haste, however. If a controversial ruling has led to an uproar in the stands and apoplexy from a coach, you can often turn down the temperature by getting play restarted as quickly as possible. The reasoning is that if people have something else to concentrate on, they’ll at least temporarily shift their concentration from the disputed call and focus on the action at hand. That doesn’t mean give short shrift to duties such as reporting to the table or accurately administrating a penalty. But drawing out those responsibilities will only pour gasoline on the fire.
The Unexpected
Minutes, innings and dozens of plays can go by without incident. But let your guard down for a second and a great performance can become a trainwreck. While you can’t cover every possible scenario in your pregame, if you’re at least savvy enough to recognize one of those biteyou-in-the-backside circumstances as it develops, you’ll have a fighting chance of handling it satisfactorily.
And while a missed call early in the game is as egregious and potentially harmful to a team as one in the final quarter, inning, game, set or period, it is the latter they will grind on the most. So remember the great Yogi Berra and don’t think the game is over just because the game is in its very late stages.
Keep thinking. Keep working. Keep hustling. And that great start won’t be wasted.
DID YOU KNOW?
The father of photo finishes in horse races thought his invention would eliminate the need for humans to determine winners. Photography pioneer Eadweard Muybridge used cameras to determine a winner in an 1881 race. Muybridge stated his case of infallibility of photography in a letter to Nature magazine.
“Are living judges any longer necessary to determine the results of a race? I venture to predict in the near future that no race of any importance will be undertaken without the assistance of photography to determine the winner.”
SOURCE: ESPN
QUICKTIP
Each new game is a learning opportunity. Don’t just go in, work the game and leave. Get something out of it. If you are unsure of a ruling, for example, take mental notes of what happened, then dive into the rulebook at the first opportunity to get a better grip on the ruling. If there are several plays you were unsure of or your partner had some plays you have questions about, talk about the plays with partners after the game. And use technology to get other officials’ opinions as well. Texting or emailing a situation to your officiating circles can give you the answers you need.
THEY SAID IT
“I always say, there are two jobs I’d never want — being a ref or being a head coach, because someone always hates you. When everything goes smoothly, and both sides are happy, and there are no blown calls, no one ever says, ‘That was an amazing job by the refs.’ There’s no credit for those guys. It’s a thankless job.”
— Former defenseman Cory Sarich, now a broadcaster, on NHL officiating
SOURCE: THE ATHLETIC
Crack Down on Pretend Violence? It’s Definitely Worth a Shot
By Jeffrey Stern
He shot an arrow into the air. It fell to earth, he knew not where. Though not intended for opponent’s chest. A 15-yard penalty was assessed.
Then after a touchdown, he did rejoice. Now a pistol the weapon of choice. But joy so soon became dejection: Two unsportsmanlikes meant his ejection.
Admittedly, that is awful poetry. And the subject of players pretending to use weaponry as a way of celebrating their accomplishments is not one to be taken lightly. Gestures such as shooting an arrow, firing a gun and replacing a sword in its sheath as a means of self-congratulation have become popular among athletes lately. But like so many other aspects of the games we work, how those acts are to be handled is not necessarily cut and dried.
Take the archer in the first stanza of our lousy verse, for instance. If that arrow is truly aimed in the air, what’s the harm? If there is nothing but sky in the path of the faux bullet fired from the simulated gun, who’s hurt?
In the recent past there have been far too many people — many of them children — killed, maimed, wounded and terrified by monsters firing real weapons on high school and college campuses. Not to mention shopping malls, movie theaters, amusement parks and other public venues.
It’s because we’ve seen so many of those real-life incidents on the evening news that to see them acted out in pantomime by players striking out opposing batters, scoring touchdowns, hitting three-pointers or scoring goals disturbs our sensibilities.
Over the years players have engaged in elaborate gyrations, gesticulations and pantomimes
designed to draw attention to themselves or to taunt an opponent. Rulemakers have been forced to examine them individually and collectively and decide which of them are to automatically draw whatever penalty is appropriate to the game and which are to be penalized based on the judgment of the officials.
Among the acts that have been addressed and are now forbidden by rule in amateur sports: football players spiking or spinning the ball after a good play, or basketball players “popping” their jerseys or hanging on the rim after a dunk unless it’s to protect someone from harm.
Baseball and softball players are wont to flip their bat after hitting a home run. Umpires don’t get involved unless the act is extreme and certain criteria are met. Ballcarriers sometimes give elaborate pointing signals after gaining a
first down. The officials generally ignore it unless offended opponents retaliate in some fashion.
For a while the gesture du jour was the throat slash, a digit drawn dramatically from one side of the jaw to the other to indicate whatever deed was just accomplished was a fatal blow to the opponent’s hopes. Since that was added to the list of acts that must draw an automatic penalty, however, it has almost completely disappeared from the sporting landscape.
Most if not all rulebooks already clearly state simulating the firing of a weapon is illegal. Why all of a sudden the rule is being flagrantly ignored is anybody’s guess. If it’s because we are not consistently enforcing the rules, shame on us.
Or we can hope Drake London of the Atlanta Falcons will serve as an object lesson for other players. London play-acted shooting an automatic weapon after scoring a touchdown Sept. 16 against Philadelphia. London’s touchdown tied the score, 21-21. But the resultant penalty meant the allimportant try was kicked from 48 yards away, not a chip shot in any kicker’s book. The kick was good, the Falcons won and London was fined more than $14,000.
High school and college players can’t be fined for mimicking marksmanship, but the penalties incurred might well cost their teams a game. Only in those cases will their coaches and fans decry their foolishness.
What goes around comes around and that includes “Hey, look at me” performances from athletes. This too shall pass and they’ll come up with something new or dredge up something old. And once again we’ll be accused of overreacting.
Are we having fun yet?
Jeffrey Stern is Referee’s senior editor. He formerly officiated high school and college football and high school baseball.
Drake London of the Atlanta Falcons was fined more than $14,000 and penalized 15 yards for simulating firing a weapon after scoring a touchdown.
Stretch or Warm Up? Try Both
By Scott Doberstein
Before you go onto the court or field, should you stretch, warm up or do both? Let’s separate the fact from the fiction.
Misconception 1: Stretching and warming up are the same thing and therefore interchangeable. Stretching is any technique that attempts to elongate or increase the length of a tissue, especially a muscle. On the other hand, warming up is a process whereby you attempt to get the body from a resting state to a level where it can handle the increased demands that are to be imminently placed upon it. By increasing your heart and respiratory rates as well as blood flow to specific tissues, they will be more efficient in handling the vigorous activities about to occur.
Misconception 2: Stretching decreases injury and increases
performance. Unfortunately, there is very little scientific evidence to support those age-old anecdotal claims.
Cold muscles do not stretch very well and if you have five minutes before your game starts, quickly stretching muscles that are not ready to be stretched for an appropriate length of time will not be of much benefit and may actually cause more harm.
Keep doing what you are doing if it works for you, understanding that the evidence available does not support that you will not get hurt if you stretch before the game.
Misconception 3: You should always stretch before you warm up. Very often individuals start their pregame routine by stretching specific muscles and if time allows, they might warm up. However, it is much more beneficial for the body and all the
tissues involved to be warmed up before stretching them.
Warm muscles, tendons and other connective tissues are very receptive to stretching and will show greater range of motion increases when compared to stretching those same tissues when they are cold. If you feel the need to stretch out prior to a contest, do some form of warmup first to maximize the tissues’ ability to be stretched.
If you have time for both, warm up first and then stretch. By adhering to those two simple principles, you will optimize your chances of being physically successful during your contests.
Scott Doberstein is a teaching professor in the Department of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of WisconsinLaCrosse and is coordinator of women’s basketball officials for the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
ALL NEW TOOLS FOR TRACK & FIELD OFFICIALS
DEATHS
Alan Mills —
The longtime Wimbledon tournament referee died Jan. 18 at the age of 88. He served as All-England Club’s referee from 1983-2005. While Mills didn’t occupy the umpire’s chair, he oversaw the referees and made the call to suspend play due to weather, earning the nickname “Rain Man.”
Wally Harris — The NHL’s first director of officials died April 18 at the age of 88. Harris officiated on-ice in the NHL from 1966-83, working 85 games in the Stanley Cup playoffs before being named the director of officials. He retired from a supervisory role in 2002.
Bill Quinby — The former NFL official and officiating observer died April 20. He was 92. Quinby was a side judge in the NFL from 1978-94. After coming off the field, Quinby spent five years scouting officials at college games and observing NFL crews.
Rogers Redding —
The former college football officiating national coordinator and secretaryeditor of the rules committee died April 7. He was 81. Redding was an onfield official for more than 30 years, and he officiated three national championship games. Following his retirement from onfield officiating in 2004, he served as a technical advisor, instant replay official and SEC coordinator of officials. In 2008, Redding succeeded John Adams as rules editor, a position he held until 2017. From 2011-20, he was the second CFO national coordinator, succeeding the late Dave Parry.
FOR THE RECORD
Paul Mihalak Jr.
The longtime NBA referee, whose career included officiating two NBA Finals, died May 1. He was 84. Mihalak began his 28-year career as an NBA official in 1969. He officiated 123 playoff games, four All-Star games and two NBA Finals. Mihalak left the court in 1997 due to severe knee problems, but later rejoined the league as an observer/mentor of young NBA officials.
Kathy Strahm —
The former national coordinator of NCAA women’s softball umpires died May 23. She was 64. Certified as an international umpire, Strahm worked the 1990 Women’s World Championship, the 1992 NCAA Women’s College World Series, the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta and many ASA tournaments and NCAA championships. She served as umpire-in-chief for NCAA women’s softball from 2007-11.
Bill Friday — The former NHL referee, and the only person to referee both a Stanley Cup Final and World Hockey Association (WHA) Avco Cup Final, died May 13. He was 91. He was also the founder and first president of the NHL Officials Association. Friday worked 44 Stanley Cup playoff games, including six consecutive Cup Final series between 1967-72, and two NHL All-Star Games. He also officiated the first game in WHA history in 1973 as well as the fledgling league’s last game in 1979.
Larry Poncino —
The former MLB umpire whose professional career spanned more than 20 years died July 14. He was 67. Poncino umpired in MLB from 1985-88, 1991-99 and 2002-07, when
he retired due to a neck injury. Among his notable assignments were an AL Division Series, three Championship Series and the 1996 All-Star Game. In 1999, Poncino lost his job in the MLB umpires’ failed mass resignation strategy. He was rehired in 2002.
Dan Wooldridge
The NCAA Division I basketball and football official who served as the first commissioner of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference died Aug. 20. He was 90. He officiated college basketball for 23 years, including 13 NCAA postseason tournaments. Wooldridge was also a referee at the Montreal Olympics in 1976. He officiated NCAA Division I football in the Southern Conference for 26 years.
Pat Tanibe — The former official who was a fixture in Hawaii basketball for nearly 50 years died Aug.
3. He was 85. While Tanibe was on the court for many of the island state’s signature assignments — including the Maui Invitational, Rainbow Classic and Chaminade’s upset of Virginia in 1982 — he was best known for starting the NCAA summer league in Hawaii. After retiring from his oncourt career in 2008, he became assigner of officials for the Pacific West Conference.
Raymond “Raymie” Styons
Jr. — The longtime NCAA Division I men’s basketball referee died Aug. 4. He was 66. Styons’ career as a collegiate basketball official lasted 35 years. He worked in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), officiating 20 ACC tournaments and 17 NCAA tournaments.
RETIREMENTS
Ed Hickox — The veteran MLB umpire retired after 28 years.
Hickox’s career was highlighted by five postseason assignments, all of which were Division Series. He also worked the World Baseball Classic three times, as well as the 2011 All-Star Game. Hickox was promoted to the AL’s full-time staff in 1999, but he lost his job that same year as part of the failed mass resignation strategy. Hickox eventually returned to the majors in 2005 and regained his full-time position in 2007.
Larry Vanover — The MLB crew chief retired after more than 30 years. At 69, Vanover was the oldest person to ever umpire and serve as a crew chief for an MLB game, passing Hall of Fame umpire Hank O’Day. During his career, Vanover worked one Wild Card, three Division Series, three League Championship Series, the 2016 World Series, two All-Star Games and two World Baseball Classics. He was also the first umpire in baseball history to use expanded video replay, confirming a call in a March 31, 2014, Cubs-Pirates game.
Paul Emmel — The MLB crew chief retired after nearly 25 years. Emmel umpired the 2013 World Series, three League Championship Series and two World Baseball Classics. Emmel missed the 2018 season and was absent for the 2020 and 2021 major league seasons because of leg and knee issues. He worked 37 games in 2023 and did not call a game in 2024.
Kevin Pollock — The longtime NHL referee who was going to retire after the 2023-24 season suffered a knee injury in March and did not return to the ice. In his career, he worked 1,608 regular-season games and 219 playoff games, including two Stanley Cup finals.
Justin St. Pierre — The veteran NHL referee retired after being sidelined all last season following knee surgery. In his career, he worked 1,197 regular-season games and eight playoff games.
Ryan Galloway — The veteran NHL linesman retired after 28 years in the league and more than 1,000 games. Galloway worked his last NHL game April 1 when the Winnipeg Jets hosted the Los Angeles Kings.
Jim Mello — The NFL down judge retired after 20 years. During his career, he worked eight Wild Cards, three Divisional games, three Conference Championships and Super Bowl XLVIII.
Mark Perlman — The NFL line judge retired after 23 years. Perlman officiated four Super Bowls, including Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. He also worked seven Wild Cards, 12 Divisionals and four Conference Championships.
Tom Hill — The NFL official who served as a field judge and side judge retired after 25 seasons. He worked nine Wild Cards, four Divisionals, 10 Conference Championships, and Super Bowls XL, XLIX, LII and LVIII.
Fred Bryan — The NFL umpire and down judge retired after 15 years. Bryan worked five Wild Cards, three Divisionals, two Conference Championships, and Super Bowls LIII and LV.
Lauren Holtkamp-Sterling — The veteran NBA referee who was just the third full-time female official in NBA history announced her retirement in October. Hired in 2014, she retired due to chronic knee issues. She dealt with knee injuries — including three ACL tears, one of them as an NBA official — for years, including last season when she worked just 15 games.
TRANSITIONS
U.S. Soccer — Kari Seitz, a longtime soccer referee who worked four Women’s World Cups during her 28-year career, was named U.S. Soccer’s first vice president of refereeing. She had previously served as head of women’s refereeing for FIFA.
In addition, Brian Hall rejoined U.S. Soccer as its new director of refereeing education and development. He served as U.S. Soccer’s manager of referee assessment and training from 2008-11. Hall most recently served as the CONCACAF director of refereeing from 201622. Hall was a FIFA referee from 1992-2007 and worked the 2002 World Cup.
FIFA — FIFA named former German soccer referee Bibiana Steinhaus-Webb as its new head of women’s refereeing in October. Steinhaus-Webb was the first woman to serve as head referee at both the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympics. Steinhaus-Webb retired from her onfield career in 2020 to become the first director of the women’s group at Professional Game Match Officials Limited.
Little League International — Stu Hartenstein, who served as an umpire-in-chief at both the local and district level for more than eight years, was named the director of umpire development and operations for Little League International in February. He previously served as director of Little League’s Central Region.
NCAA Volleyball — Ryan MacDowell, who has 24 years of experience as a college volleyball official, was named the NCAA’s national coordinator of Division I women’s volleyball officials. He replaced Steve Thorpe, who stepped away in August from the position he held since 2017. MacDowell has worked 10 NCAA tournaments — including three semifinal matches and the 2018 national championship match — and numerous conference tournaments.
GAC — The Great American Conference hired Bryan Greenwood, a replay communicator for the SEC and a regional coordinator of football officials for the Louisiana High School Athletic Association, as its coordinator of football
officials. He had an onfield officiating career in the Sun Belt and Gulf South conferences and the GAC. Greenwood founded the Louisiana High School Officials Association.
Peach Belt — The Peach Belt Conference named Tasha Smith, an NCAA Division I women’s basketball official, as the new supervisor of women’s basketball officials in June. Smith serves as the coordinator of officials for the Sunshine State Conference and Gulf South Conference, both regional Division II neighbors of the Peach Belt.
NCAA — Mara Banfield, who has officiated collegiate women’s lacrosse for more than two decades, was named the NCAA national coordinator of women’s lacrosse officials in October. Banfield worked the NCAA national championship games in Division II (2019) and Division III (2023).
NFHS — The NFHS hired former WNBA basketball player Monica Maxwell as its new director of sports. She officially joined the NFHS staff in her new role in August. Maxwell will serve as staff liaison, rules interpreter and editor of NFHS publications in basketball, field hockey and girls’ gymnastics.
RECOGNITIONS
Ted Barrett — The MLB crew chief who retired after the 2022 season received the 2024 NASO Gold Whistle Award in July. Barrett worked five Wild Card games, 10 Division Series, nine League Championship Series, two All-Star Games and five World Series during his career. Off the field, he was ordained as a minister in 2007 and co-founded Calling for Christ, a Christian ministry of MLB and MiLB umpires committed to teaching and sustaining umpires. Barrett also serves on the board of Unlimited Potential Inc., a professional baseball ministry, and has been
an instructor at multiple MLB Umpire Camps.
Ernie Yarbrough — The longtime Georgia High School Association assistant executive director was the 2024 recipient of the Mel Narol Medallion, which recognizes contributions to NASO. Yarbrough, who has impacted tens of thousands of officials for more than four decades, led successful State Day events in connection to the annual NASO Summit in 2011 and 2024.
Sarah Thomas — NASO recognized Thomas with the 2024 Inspire Award for her impact on the officiating community and her position as a role model for so many female officials. In 2009, she became the first woman to officiate a college football bowl game onfield and in 2015, Thomas became the first woman hired full-time to officiate onfield in the NFL. Following the 2018 season, she became the NFL’s first onfield female official in playoff history, and on Feb. 7, 2021, Thomas became the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl.
Tony Thompson — The longtime NCAA Division I umpire was inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame in February. During his career, Thompson umpired two Men’s College World Series and 11 Regionals as well as 15 SEC, 10 ACC and one Sun Belt Conference tournament. He also worked five seasons of professional baseball.Thompson remains active in several conference administrative positions.
C.J. Mitchell — Mitchell, the first Black college umpire in the Pac-8 (now Pac-12) Conference, was inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame in February. He worked four NCAA D-I World Series, six NCAA Regionals, 10 NAIA World Series and six American Legion World Series. He also worked 12 years of professional ball in the Class A Northwest League.
LAW ISSUES AFFECTING
Call of Duty?
By Scott Aronowitz
There are several things you notice as you move up the officiating ladder. The higher the level of a contest, the more personnel are needed to ensure said contest can not only be commenced, but also completed smoothly.
For example, officials are less likely to help set up pylons and yard markers at an NCAA game than at a Pop Warner game. We gladly perform these types of tasks because they are relatively safe and easy — I doubt anyone has damaged pylons or yard markers in their careers — and helps our game management and safety, which is surely within our purview.
Now, as game managers and human beings, we must assess the risk involved with performing duties that fall outside our general areas of responsibility.
What if our services are called upon for other duties, such as setting up the volleyball nets, moving scoreboard equipment or adjusting soccer goals, to name a few? One might argue that without those items the contest could not begin and, as such, they fall within our jurisdiction. If you are injured engaging in these activities, or if you are sued for causing damage or injury to others, are you covered by insurance? As with most legal issues, it depends.
In general, you are covered for claims for bodily injury, property damage and personal injury during sporting activities. Coverage extends to any activity having to do with your officiating avocation. Coverage extends to all your officiating activities and is also provided for claims alleging a breach of duty as an official by reason of error or omission occurring while acting as an official (emphasis added). Insurance policies also have
exclusions, which are provisions within the policy that eliminate coverage for certain acts. For example, if damage or injury occurred due to your negligence, an insurer might not cover it.
Now, as game managers and human beings, we must assess the risk involved with performing duties that fall outside our general areas of responsibility, as specified in rulebooks and mechanics manuals. How do we deny what may seem like a reasonable request without the appearance of indifference? For some guidance, let me hearken back to the seminal case in officiating liability, Midwest Casualty v. Harpole et al.
An official collided with a high school coach who was standing in the restricted area, and the coach sustained a serious head injury and permanent disability. The coach’s workers’ compensation insurer sued the officials and after six years of litigation, the courts found in favor of the officials. Why? “The fact was that the referee was where he was supposed to be, doing exactly what his job required.”
Consequently, it is important to determine whether any undertaking qualifies as an “officiating activity.” If I were representing the insurance company and received a claim for damage or injury from an official’s act, I would go directly to the rules and mechanics to determine officials’ roles and responsibilities. If the damage or injury resulted from moving a scoreboard or climbing a ladder to affix a volleyball net, to name a few, I would be inclined to deny the claim.
In keeping with a common theme on this page, the analysis comes down to limiting your liability. We can be sued for just about anything, but doing our job within the scope of our prescribed duties goes a long way to avoiding protracted litigation.
Scott Aronowitz is an educator and attorney and lives in Fernandina Beach, Fla. He is a football replay official in the Big Ten Conference and a director of the Gulf Atlantic Collegiate Football Officials Camp. This column is not intended as legal advice.
Plan an Educational Session on Taxes
Officials associations train on rules and mechanics. But it can also be good for an association to touch upon related matters — such as dealing with tax responsibilities for income earned through officiating.
If you are part of the leadership group for an association, consider having a local certified public accountant (CPA) be part of one of your training meetings.
Depending on how in-depth you want the discussion to be, the instruction should last a minimum of 60 minutes and could last up to an hour and a half.
The topics covered should include, but are not limited to: the laws governing the requirement to report income earned from officiating; the differences between hobby income and for-profit income; the types of expenses officials might incur; the requirement to pay self-employment taxes; the need to pay estimated tax payments in order to avoid penalties and interest; advantages of taxdeferred accounts such as IRAs; and the Qualified Business Income Deduction.
If you consider asking a CPA to meet with your members, remember there are certain times of the year that might prove to be difficult to arrange. Most CPAs are busy from mid-January through April 15, known as “tax season.” However, there are other deadlines that keep CPAs busier than usual. A CPA will be much more likely to visit with your association if you ask them to come during one of the slower times during the year — so you might need to plan for a future season’s training meetings.
If you can’t find a CPA willing to visit without charging a fee, contact the state Board of Accountancy. They usually keep a list of CPAs who do educational seminars.
An educational training session on taxes will be beneficial to all of your members and they will appreciate the leadership providing such training. And it will be nice to get away from discussions about why the ratings are unfair and who is getting the best games, at least for one night.
SOURCE: PAST ADVISOR COLUMN BY KEITH VINCENT, CPA
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QUIZ ANSWERS
BASKETBALL
1 — NFHS – f (5-11-6); NCAAM – e (5-17.2); NCAAW – d (5-17.2)
2 — NFHS – c (6-4-4 Note); NCAAM/W – e (6-3.5)
3 — NFHS, NCAAM – b (NFHS 3-3-1a, 3-3-1.c, 3.3.1B; NCAAM 3-6.1.g, 3-6.2.b, AR 3-7); NCAAW –c (3-6.1.g, 3-6.2.b, AR 3-7)
4 — All – c (NFHS 9-4, 9.4; NCAAM/W 9-6.1, AR 9-20)
BASEBALL
1 — All – a (NFHS 2-19; NCAA 2-48; pro Definition –Infield Fly)
2 — All – d (NFHS 7-4-1; NCAA 8-6b10; pro 6.2a4)
3 — All – d (NFHS 8-3-3c3; NCAA 8-3o3 Note 4; pro 5.06b4G)
4 — NFHS, NCAA – b (NFHS 7-3-2; NCAA 2-44, 7-10); pro – a (6.03a1)
FOOTBALL
1 — NFHS – a, b, d, e (3-57b, 3-5-7l, 3-5-10a, 3-5-
MISSION
10d); NCAA – a, b (3-3-2e-5, 3-3-2e-16)
2 — Both – a (NFHS 8-3-8; NCAA 8-3-3b-2)
3 — Both – b (NFHS 3-6-2f; NCAA 3-4-2b-8, AR 3-4-2 II)
4 — Both – e (NFHS 2-24-3, 2-24-6, 2-24-7, 2-24-8, 8-54; NCAA 2-16-5b, 8-5-2)
5 — Both – c (NFHS 3-5-5; NCAA 3-3-1b)
SOCCER
1 — All – a (NFHS 12-7-3, 18-1-1v; NCAA 12.4.10; IFAB 12.3)
2 — All – b (NFHS 12-8-2; NCAA 12.4.9; IFAB 12.3)
3 — NFHS – b (12-6-1F); NCAA, IFAB – c (NCAA 5.4.3; IFAB 5.3)
4 — All – c (NFHS 18pp; NCAA 12.3.2.2; IFAB 12.2)
5 — All – a (NFHS 8-1-2; NCAA 8.2.2; IFAB 8.1)
SOFTBALL
1 — NFHS – c (3-1-3 Pen., 3-3-1); NCAA – a (5.7.3 Note 1); USA Softball, USSSA
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FEBRUARY
FLASHBACK
40 YEARS AGO … 1985
• John Waldorf becomes the first game official to be inducted into the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame. Waldorf, a former coach and player prior to a long career as an official in both college football and basketball, was the supervisor of Big Eight Conference officials for 12 years and served as the NCAA football rules committee chairman from 1969-75. He died in 1982.
– b (USA Softball 4-1A-2; USSSA 5-1C)
2 — All – a (NFHS 2-29, 8-2-10 Pen.; NCAA 11.16, 11.17.2 Exc.; USA Softball 1-Infield Fly, 8-2K Eff. 4; USSSA 3-Infield Fly, 8-17C Note, 8-17H)
3 — All – a, b, c (NFHS 2-12; NCAA 7.1; USA Softball R/S 1; USSSA 9-1)
4 — All – c (NFHS 2-241g, 2-24-2; NCAA 11.6.1; USA Softball 1-Foul Ball G; USSSA 3-Foul Tip)
VOLLEYBALL
1 — All – b (NFHS 7-1-4a-1; NCAA 10.1.1.9; USAV 7.3.5.3)
2 — NFHS – c (2-1-6); NCAA – a (1.3.1, Interp. Rule 1.5); USAV – b (1.4.2)
3 — NFHS – a (5-4-4b); NCAA – d (8.4.2.1); USAV – c (Procedures, 8A)
4 — NFHS – c (7-1-4); NCAA, USAV – b (NCAA 10.1.1.1; USAV 7.3.2)
Referee is a magazine written from an officiating perspective, blending editorial credibility and business viability. It educates, challenges and inspires officials at the youth, recreational, high school, collegiate and professional levels in all sports, with an emphasis on baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball and volleyball. Referee is the journal of record for officiating and takes informed positions on selected issues. The magazine provides a forum for its readers, facilitates the flow of information, raises public consciousness about officials’ roles and serves as a catalyst for improved officiating worldwide.
30 YEARS AGO … 1995
• Longtime NFL referee Pat Haggerty, 67, dies after a long battle with prostate and bone cancer. An NFL official from 1965-92, Haggerty refereed three Super Bowls: XIII in 1979, XVI in 1982 and XIX in 1985. He was nominated as a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
20 YEARS AGO … 2005
• Longtime NHL referee Terry Gregson retires. Gregson officiated 1,427 regularseason games during a career that spanned 1979-2004. He also worked 158 playoff games, including nine Stanley Cup Finals. Gregson served as the NHL’s director of officiating from 2009-13.
10 YEARS AGO … 2015
• Former NBA referee Bob Delaney joins the league as its vice president of referee operations. Delaney officiated in the NBA from 19872011, working 1,182 games, including 120 playoff games.
My Superpower
I never wanted to be a volleyball official. I only agreed to fill in on one game because I owed a friend a favor and they were desperate for “warm bodies.”
I was worried about being unable to switch from a player’s mindset to a rules mindset, but it was just a middle school game. I figured there wasn’t much that could go wrong.
When I walked out of the gym that night, I felt the most comfortable and peaceful I’d been in a long time, and that was all it took for me to get hooked. I started going to every training clinic, staying late to watch the officials on varsity games and emailing assigners to get on their rosters.
Back then, I couldn’t explain it. All I knew was that I loved officiating volleyball.
I was weirdly adept at remembering the rules, even small, obscure rules that are rarely applied — like screening for example. I only needed to hear or read a rule once for it to be cemented in my mind, and I would rather be publicly stoned than break it. I once had to physically restrain myself from scoffing when a coach asked me to “not keep track of rotation” during a C-squad game.
The mere mention of volleyball or officiating triggered my insatiable need to word-vomit stories, statistics, weird facts and random equipment recommendations until the victim
was exhausted and ran away.
Back then, I couldn’t explain it. All I knew was that I loved officiating volleyball. The way my mind would shut off the second I stepped onto the court was pure relief. There was no stress from my “real job,” no anxiety or worry, and anything outside that 29.5-by-59-foot court didn’t matter.
The most glaring example of this was the day I spent waiting for word on whether my brother, a Navy corpsman, had been killed at the Kabul airport bombing. All I wanted was the gym. I knew the sound of whistles, cheering and volleyballs bouncing would drown out the terrible thoughts running through my mind.
Then one day, something happened and it clicked. It all made perfect sense. After having my daughter, my ADHD was raging out of control despite medication, so I started cognitive behavior therapy to learn coping skills. After some sessions, questionnaires and deep conversations, my therapist said something that surprised me.
“Sarah, you’re autistic.”
I had never experienced autism up close and personal. Sheldon from the TV show “The Big Bang Theory” came to mind, but I did what divergent minds do when they’re intrigued with something. I hyper-fixated on learning everything about autism and common characteristic manifestations:
• Extreme interest and knowledge in specific and niche topics.
• Strict adherence to rules.
• Exceptional honesty.
• A drive for perfection.
• Visual hypersensitivity.
I realized autism was likely a large part of why officiating was so natural for me and that this new understanding of myself could be my officiating superpower. However, it also created large gaps I had to accommodate:
• Avoiding direct eye contact.
• Overstimulation.
• Requiring a reasonable why for a rule to be applicable.
When working with an official
I know, I don’t have to preface my behavior because we know each other’s signals and cues. However, I must give new team members a heads-up to avoid delays or misunderstandings.
“I might not make eye contact with you, but if I’m nodding my head, I’m ready to go.”
I wear earplugs that dampen the gym’s noise a small amount. This protects my hearing and reduces stimulation so I don’t get overwhelmed.
Now, I can ask teams beforehand if they want me to ignore rotations. This is common for middle school or college-level club leagues, and as long as both teams agree, the only rotationrelated fault I call is a back-row attack.
Recently, during a preseason meeting, I asked for the reasoning behind a uniform appearance rule in an attempt to understand it better. If I understand and support the reasoning, I can apply it, but rules that don’t make sense simply do not exist in my mind. (I still believe the size of a logo on a player’s shorts has nothing to do with the game of volleyball and is a pointless rule.)
Autistic people can be great at masking — that is masking their behaviors to appear “normal.” Some of us can be so skilled at masking that we don’t know how to remove the mask. For me, that happens on the volleyball court because when I have a literal rulebook, I don’t have to wear a mask. It is so liberating and secure.
If you’re neurotypical, I hope my experience helps you better understand that “awkward partner who never makes eye contact and is a stickler for the rules.”
If you’re a fellow neurodiverse, I hope you learn how to wield your superpower to make yourself a better official and that you find refuge and peace by blowing a whistle. I did.
Sarah Coffman, Roseville, Minn., is a collegiate, high school and club volleyball official.
Do you have a personal officiating story to tell?
Send your story or queries to lastcall@referee.com
IT’S OFFICIAL
february 2025
Georgia Passes Summit Torch to Alabama
Late last July Atlanta served as the center of the officiating universe. Thousands of officials, administrators, sponsors and supporters of sports officiating gathered for a historic Officiate Georgia Day, and hundreds attended the NASO Sports Officiating Summit July 28-30. Having hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics, Atlanta is well versed in keeping the torch flame alive. Atlanta was also the host site for the NASO Sports Officiating Summit previously in 2011, and based upon the success of that event it hosted again.
At the conclusion of last year’s event, leaders from the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) communicated their commitment to pick up where those from the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) left off. Both state offices had been preparing to host the respective events for many years; Alabama for almost a decade since the originally scheduled and later pandemic postponed 2020 Summit was rescheduled for 2025 (sites for 2021-2024 were already determined).
“I want to thank Georgia for hosting and inviting us, we had the pleasure of watching you all and how you do your thing,” Ken Washington, AHSAA director
of officials, said during the 2024 Celebrate Officiating Gala sponsored by Fox 40. “On behalf of the Alabama High School Athletic Association … and our incoming Executive Director Heath Harmon we want to welcome each and every one of you to the city of Montgomery.”
Officiate Alabama Day is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, 2025, and will feature educational programming and celebrations in the Heart of Dixie state. Registration for Officiate Alabama Day is well underway. The 2025 NASO Summit will run July 27-29 and will be centered around the theme “Dare to Lead: Develop, Direct and Defend Officials.” The leadership of working officials, supervisors, coordinators and administrators to be highlighted in Montgomery builds off the message of sustaining and retaining officials which was explored during the time spent in Atlanta.
“Officials are absolutely an important partner of the Georgia High School Association and all of our schools in providing those education based athletic opportunities,” retiring GHSA Executive Director Robin Hines said. “If we don’t have officials, then we don’t have organized sports. We have recess. We have scrimmages. Without officials, it’s
just not the same. The advocacy that the National Association of Sports Officials provides for officials is really important. This opportunity allowed us to showcase them and their effort to recruit and retain officials, which is what it’s all about right now.”
At the conclusion of the 2024 Summit, GHSA leaders thanked attendees and sponsors, pointing out how meeting the needs of officials is vital to the sustained success of the industry that supports so much of what they accomplish through interscholastic athletics in their state. Taking time to highlight the good work of so many officials is a worthwhile investment.
“Thank you for what you do,” Hines said. “It’s been an honor having all of you. I hope you’ve
IT’S OFFICIAL - february 2025
enjoyed your time in the great state of Georgia and here in Atlanta.”
The AHSAA intends to capitalize on the success and momentum coming off of a tremendous event in Atlanta. The 43rd Sports Officiating Summit will be the first time the event takes place in Alabama.
You’ve Been Selected for an Audit! Now What?
By Keith Vincent
I“We thank the staff of the GHSA for partnering in a successful 2024 event in Atlanta,” NASO President Bill Topp said. “We are excited to roll up our sleeves and get to work in Alabama alongside our great partners at the AHSAA. Developing, directing and defending sports officials is so crucial right now and we are looking forward to seeing you in Montgomery.”
Editor: Julie Sternberg
Sports Editor: Brent Killackey
Graphic Designer: Dustin Brown
Contributors: Don Collins, George Demetriou, Alan Goldberger, Joe Jarosz, Patrick Rosenow, Tim Sloan, Brad Star, Jeffrey Stern, Brad Tittrington, Scott Tittrington, Bill Topp
NASO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lisa Jones, Salt Lake City, Chair
Ron Torbert, Hanover, Md., Vice Chair
Bill Topp, Racine, Wis., President
Dana Pappas, Lebanon, Ind., Secretary
Mark Uyl, DeWitt, Mich., Treasurer
Dean Blandino, Santa Monica, Calif.
Paul LaRosa, Hendersonville, N.C.
Jason Nickleby, Lake Elmo, Minn.
Sandra Serafini, Yachats, Ore.
Rob Wigod, Los Alamitos, Calif.
Gary Zielinski, South Jordan, Utah
*Ron Foxcroft, Hamilton, Ontario, Special Adviser
*Barry Mano, Racine, Wis., Special Adviser
*Non-voting members
NASO MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of NASO is to:
• Serve members by providing benefits and services.
• Improve officiating performance through educational programs.
• Advocate opportunities for officials and engage in programs to recruit and retain officials.
• Create alliances with organizations that benefit from healthy officiating programs.
f a sports official is selected for an IRS audit, it can daunting. Officials may find themselves unfamiliar with the intricacies of tax laws and audit procedures. However, the process of handling an IRS audit is not unlike other forms of review that a referee or umpire may be accustomed to. Understanding the steps to take is crucial to ensure the process goes smoothly, and the individual’s legal obligations are met.
An IRS audit is a review of a taxpayer’s financial information and records to ensure their tax returns are accurate and in compliance with federal tax laws. Being selected for an audit does not necessarily imply wrongdoing. It simply means the IRS is requesting verification of the details in the tax filings. Below are the steps you should follow if selected for an IRS audit.
1. Stay Calm
The first reaction to an IRS audit notice might be panic, but it’s important to stay calm. The IRS conducts audits for various reasons, including random selection, discrepancies in tax returns, or mismatches between income reported and thirdparty records. An audit does not automatically mean you’ve done something wrong. Many audits are merely routine checks.
Upon receiving an audit notice, the official should read the letter, which will detail the scope of the audit, the specific tax years under review, and the documents required. The notice will also specify whether the audit will be conducted via mail (correspondence audit) or in
person (field or office audit). That helps to set expectations.
2. Review Tax Returns and Gather Documentation
Once the official understands what is being audited, they should begin reviewing the tax returns in question. Even if the official is confident about the accuracy of their tax filings, it’s a good idea to revisit the returns and ensure there are no mistakes. Pay attention to any deductions, credits, and income sources that may have raised red flags.
The IRS will typically request specific documentation to support the information in the tax return. Common items include:
Income records: Pay stubs, 1099 forms, bank statements, or other proof of income.
Deductions: Receipts or other records supporting claimed deductions such as business expenses, medical expenses, or charitable contributions.
Identification numbers: Proof of Social Security number or Employer Identification Number (EIN), if applicable.
Any relevant correspondence or prior audits
Keep these documents organized and easily accessible, as they will help clarify any questions the IRS auditor may have about financial records.
3. Consider Hiring a Professional
While it’s possible to handle an audit independently, officials unfamiliar with the intricacies of tax laws may find it helpful to hire a tax professional, such as an enrolled agent, tax attorney, or certified public accountant (CPA), who has experience navigating IRS audits. A tax professional
can help prepare the necessary documentation, communicate with the IRS, and ensure the official’s rights are protected. They can also negotiate with the IRS on your behalf to resolve any issues that may arise, which is important if the audit leads to a dispute over the amount owed or the legitimacy of certain deductions.
4. Respond Promptly
The IRS typically includes deadlines in its audit notices, and failing to meet the deadlines can result in penalties. Whether the audit is by mail or in person, respond promptly. If the official needs more time to prepare, they should contact the IRS in advance. The IRS is more likely to be accommodating when taxpayers make the effort to communicate proactively.
If the audit is to be conducted in person, the official should meet the auditor at the scheduled time and location. If the meeting is held at the official’s home or place of business, it’s important to remain professional and courteous throughout the process, just as he or she would in a game situation.
5. Be Honest and Transparent
During the audit, it’s critical to be honest with the IRS. If mistakes were made on the original tax return, acknowledge them. The IRS is more likely to be lenient with taxpayers who cooperate and admit to unintentional errors. Providing false information or failing to share details can lead to penalties, interest, or legal action.
If discrepancies are found that lead to additional taxes owed, the official can typically appeal or negotiate a settlement, including arranging a payment plan.
6. Understand Your Rights
Finally, officials should be aware of their rights for the audit process. They have the right to:
• Be treated fairly and respectfully by IRS agents.
• Appeal any audit decision they disagree with through the IRS Office of Appeals.
• Seek professional assistance.
• Have a taxpayer advocate assist with areas under dispute.
If the official disagrees with the audit findings, they can appeal. That process is an important option if the auditor and taxpayer cannot reach an agreement.
While being selected for
an IRS audit can be stressful, understanding the process and taking proactive steps can ensure the situation is handled effectively. By staying calm, gathering documentation, and seeking professional advice, if necessary, the official can navigate the audit process with confidence.
Keith Vincent, CPA, CITP has been officiating high school basketball for more than 30 years. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and the Utah Association of CPAs.
NASO Signs Agreement With TPG
NASO signed a multi-year agreement with Teall Properties Group (TPG), a multimedia and marketing management company for high school state associations, national organizations and events, to make it the exclusive agent for strategic business partnerships and sponsorships.
Under the new partnership, TPG will work closely with NASO to manage corporate sponsorship efforts and grow brand partnerships. TPG also signed a companion multi-year agreement with Referee Enterprises Inc. (REI), with which NASO contracts to manage the association.
“We’re excited because TPG works with dozens of state associations and other governing bodies, so it strengthens our relationship with those groups,” said NASO President Bill Topp. “And having a dedicated TPG staff person focused exclusively on NASO and REI is going to benefit the association and our staff. This will help with the Summit and overall NASO growth, so we
can invest more back into our membership.”
TPG currently partners with 32 state high school athletic and activity associations, the NFHS and NFHS Network, the NIAAA, large high school athletic conferences, and high school coaches and athletic directors’ associations all across the U.S.
“We are honored to partner with both NASO and REI to continue growing both organizations and supplementing the tremendous impact they have on the officiating industry.” said Mike Wolfert, TPG CEO. “They have a highly engaged membership, and we believe there is tremendous opportunity for brands to deliver new value and build relationships with their audience.”
Teall Capital created its TPG division in 2018 to serve as Teall Capital’s arm for the high school market. Teall Capital is a privately held set of investments in innovative, high-growth potential lifestyle brands, experiences and services.
Year in Review 2024
The following stories made headlines for NASO in 2024.
NASO Membership Reaches All-Time High
NASO celebrated a new memberships milestone thanks in part to its group member program. NASO serves individual and group members in all 50 states and dozens of countries across the globe.
NASO Surpasses 30,000 Members. In June, the count of dues paying members hit an all-time high of 30,060. NASO has been providing industryleading benefits and services for officials in all sports and at all levels since its founding in 1980. NASO remains the leader in the sports officiating industry for education, protection, advocacy and celebration of officials.
Group Memberships Grow. An important factor in the growth of NASO’s numbers has been the development of the Group Membership Program. Groups of 25 or more officials can benefit from discounted rates and NASO is able to provide additional benefits to associations via its Association Advantage Program. USA Pickleball, the national governing body for the sport of pickleball in the U.S., announced in May a new partnership with NASO that provides resources and benefits to USA Pickleball’s nearly 1,000 officials. Among NASO’s longest standing group membership partners is the NFL officiating staff and administrators. Other large group members include the
NASO grew in numbers and made a significant impact on the industry in 2024. The industry event of the year, successful partnerships and continued advocacy efforts affected members and officials across the country.
California Basketball Officials Association members, the statewide Washington Officials Association, and Michigan High School Athletic Association officials.
NASO Provides Industry Resources
NASO, through its partnerships, provided resources to the officiating industry.
• NASO Survey Data Available for Educational Researchers. Powered by Referee.com, NASO’s 2023 National Officiating Survey was the most comprehensive survey completed in the history of the officiating industry. The raw survey data became accessible in 2024 for educational purposes through a research application process, thanks to a partnership between NASO and Columbia University. The survey data was housed at Columbia under the oversight of David Madigan, a statistician who was previously Professor of Statistics at Columbia and now serves as the Provost and Senior VicePresident for Academic Affairs at Northeastern University. Many academic researchers have inquired or begun the process to access the data.
• NFHS Provides Association Advantage to State Associations. The NFHS partnered with NASO to purchase the Association Advantage program for all state associations in 2024. Association Advantage provides information
and educational resources, bringing local and state groups together nationwide and fostering the exchange of ideas among association leaders and members. Association Advantage includes a website featuring the largest and most comprehensive online database of officials association resources and articles; an information and consultation program that provides associations with information, advice, or a consultation with an outside professional on legal, financial or administrative issues; and the monthly Advisor newsletter full of helpful articles on a variety of topics.
Summit Held in Atlanta Sports officiating leaders gathered together July 28-30 during the 42nd annual Sports Officiating Summit.
• Officiate George Day Precedes Summit. Officials from all over Georgia came together to advance their games during Officiate Georgia Day, which took place July 27, the day before the Summit. Attendees participated in sportspecific breakout sessions, multiple general sessions and had a chance to visit with vendors. More than 1,700 individuals registered for the historic gathering of officials.
• NASO Sports Officiating Summit Draws Leaders. With the theme “Sustain Officials. Retain Officials,” the officiating industry’s event of the year
brought more than 400 sports officiating leaders from around the world together to celebrate officiating.
• High Numbers Support Summit. Numerous conferences, associations and businesses provided sponsorship for the 2024 NASO Summit. The NFHS and the Georgia High School Association were presenting sponsors of the event. There were more than 100 support organizations for the Summit.
NASO Awards Industry Leaders
NASO recognized those that made a difference in the industry with special awards.
• Barrett Awarded Officiating’s Top Honor. Ted Barrett, a longtime MLB crew chief who is the co-founder of Calling for Christ, a Christian ministry of MLB and MiLB umpires committed to teaching and sustaining umpires on and off the field, received the 2024 Gold Whistle Award. During his onfield career, Barrett was assigned five Wild Card games, 10 Division Series, nine League Championship Series, two AllStar Games and five World Series. He retired following the 2022 season. Off the field, Barrett was ordained as a minister in 2007 and earned his Doctorate in Theology. In addition to his work with Calling for Christ, Barrett has also been an instructor at MLB Umpire Camps.
Association, received the 2024 Mel Narol Medallion. A past Naismith High School Basketball Official of the Year in Georgia and NFHS Citation recipient, Yarbrough lead greatly successful State Day events associated with the Sports Officiating Summits in 2011 and 2024.
• Thomas Receives Inspire Award.
Sarah Thomas has been a pioneer, not only in the NFL, but for women across the officiating landscape and around the world. Her impact and her position as a role model for so many female officials led to her selection as the 2024 Inspire Award recipient. In 2009, she became the first woman to officiate a college football bowl game onfield and in 2015, Thomas became the first woman hired full-time to officiate onfield in the NFL. Following the 2018 season she became the NFL’s first onfield female official in playoff history. And on Feb. 7, 2021, Thomas became the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl.
NASO Welcomes New Board Members, Officers
The NASO board welcomed two new board members and elected new officers in 2024.
• Yarbrough Selected for Mel Narol Medallion. Ernie Yarbrough, a longtime supporter of sports officials as the assistant executive director and coordinator of officiating for the Georgia High School
• New Members Join the Ranks. Two individuals joined the NASO board in 2024: Jason Nickleby and Gary Zielinski. Nickleby of Lake Elmo, Minn., serves as assistant director of officiating services for the Minnesota State High School League. Perhaps most well known as a Big Ten football center judge, Nickleby
has also officiated high school and small college basketball and baseball, plus volleyball and softball. He has experience as an assigner and local association leader as well. Zielinski of South Jordan, Utah, served as the NBA Referee Operations Department’s Youth & Amateur Officiating Development Lead. He was also a full-time NBA official from 2001-18 and worked seasons in the WNBA and Continental Basketball Association. Zielinski is involved in youth officiating as a clinician and camp coordinator as well.
• Board Elects Officers. Lisa Jones, NCAAW D-I basketball referee for more than 20 years, was elected chair of the board, and Ron Torbert, an NFL referee since 2010 who worked Super Bowl LVI, was elected vice chair. Dana Pappas, NFHS director of officiating services, remains secretary, and Mark Uyl, the executive director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association, is the treasurer.
Legislation Efforts Continue
NASO aided with legislation efforts as more states pursued protection laws.
• NASO Supports State Efforts. NASO provided support to states pursuing laws to protect sports officials. NASO also continued to track and highlight legislation efforts in It’s Official and on its website.
• New Hampshire Passes Officials Protection Law.
Last July, New Hampshire became the 23rd state to pass legislation aimed at protecting sports officials from assault or harassment. Gov. Chris Sununu signed into law legislation aimed at protecting umpires and referees from attacks as Senate Bill 327 went into effect on Jan. 1.
Nickleby
Zielinski
From the Chair the total package of naso
By Lisa Jones
Given my experience in the fire service, it is challenging not to draw similarities between it and the officiating experience. I have learned so much about the total package of NASO in my time on the board, even though I became a member early in my officiating journey. As a high school official, I had to show proof of liability insurance; NASO was the go-to organization. I did not know much beyond that and have since learned that NASO is so much more than the place where you go to get insurance. NASO is the 9-1-1 call for the officiating community. Following are a few programs I would like to highlight among the many available to you as a member of NASO.
Support. One critical program available to officials is the Member Information and Consultation Program (MICP). If you have a “situation” and need advice or someone to clarify your options, MICP is available Members can use the consulation aspect of the program three times per year, and many do. Many calls are also made to NASO by officials who may need emergency guidance but are not members. This fact reminds us how critical this program is.
NASO also provides special pricing for members of various groups and businesses. You can take advantage of significant discounts for Referee and NASO training materials, uniforms through Ump-Attire.com, and a discount of up to 25% off hotel
stays through the Marriott VIP Program, to name a few.
Taxes. Did you know there is a tax document created solely for officials and available through the NASO Members App called the Sports Officials Tax Guide? It is packed with information about business expenses, independent contractor status and a helpful FAQ area. Your dues to NASO are tax deductible as a business expense as well! I encourage you to find this guide and put it to effective use.
Advocacy. NASO takes promoting positive awareness for sports officials very seriously. Legislative efforts have resulted in dozens of states passing assault legislation, limited-liability laws protecting sports officials, and other legislation designed to protect officials. You can find the Sports Official Legislation Scorecard map online to see what your state is doing to protect officials. Your membership dues directly fund all those efforts.
Training and education. Referee magazine has been a vital resource for all officials for more than 40 years, with over 80 pages of articles, quizzes, features, and information selected every month just for you. This content is created for officials by officials, so there is no question that something in the magazine will resonate with you and can be applied to your sport. Additionally, REI and NASO have published over 600 books. Members have access to some of the best officiating knowledge in the industry at their disposal.
The best insurance. As mentioned, NASO does more than insurance; however, insurance plays a vital role in
mitigating risk and should be important to every official. As a member of NASO, even if you officiate at your daughter’s 6-year-old basketball game on Saturday morning in your offseason, you are covered by up to $6 million for each occurrence and $14 million for claims related to damage to property and personal injury.
Another noteworthy facet of the insurance is the $100,000 Game Call and Assignors coverage. The scrutiny of games and the abuse shown by some are likely to increase, as are Name, Image and Likeness deals offering athletes thousands of dollars based on their play and ability to influence. This insurance supports officials’ defense if they are sued by someone claiming negligence that a call or non-call affected their ability to make money. As an official, you make calls that not everyone will agree with. NASO has the industry’s most comprehensive insurance program to cover you
NASO is also the only organization that protects our member-officials against assault. You get up to $25,000 medical reimbursement, up to $4,500 reimbursement of attorney’s fees for bringing a claim against the perpetrator, and up to $1,000 for loss of game fees if you are the victim of an assault.
Since its founding in 1980, NASO has been behind officials. We should all consider where we would be without NASO protecting, advocating, and educating us. I challenge you to do all you can to support NASO’s continued mission of being the leading source of
officiating information, programs, and services. Help us ensure NASO remains a vital force helping generations of officials by choosing one person you work with who is not a member and giving them your magazine
once you have read it. Share what you know about NASO and help to ensure there will be knowledgeable and informed officials with and behind you.
Lisa Jones of Salt Lake City has been a women’s Division I
basketball referee for more than 20 years. She is also a retired Deputy Chief of the Phoenix Fire Department and retired Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in Phoenix.
How to Keep the Peace During Association Meetings
Chances are, at some point in your officiating career, you have found yourself in an association meeting that has gone off the rails. Maybe one belligerent official takes an opposing stance to a rules interpretation and suddenly everyone is trying to talk over one another. So how do you, as an association leader, keep everyone focused and prevent meeting night from turning into fight night?
Set Expectations
The first meeting of the year is a great time to let everyone know how all future meetings will operate. It eliminates any uncertainties when the association knows the manner in which business will be conducted. Think of this as sharing the agenda for all future agendas.
Airtight Agendas
Nothing gets a meeting off on the wrong foot quicker than failing to have an agenda that details the business to be handled during the gathering. This allows everyone to know what is going to be discussed, and just as important, when it’s going to be discussed. Do everything you can to
stick to the schedule. And if you notice an instructor or presenter is veering off course, don’t be afraid to step in and let him/her know there is a road map to which he/she must adhere.
Question Time
Often the biggest issue is knowing how to handle “question guy.” We all know the type — that one member who either has to show he’s the smartest guy in the room by questioning everything, or the one who feels the need to parse every detail to the nth degree. While you don’t want to stymie productive backand-forth discussion, establish a time at the end of the
ASSOCIATION ADVANTAGE
Running a local officials association is demanding. You volunteer your time and effort to make it the best you can. But there’s no reason you have to do it alone. NASO Association Advantage exists to help you face any challenge and elevate your association in the process. Whatever challenges you have — training, insurance, legal issues, meeting help, bylaws and organization, membership issues and more — WE HAVE A SOLUTION TO MEET YOUR NEEDS.
PLATINUM & PLATINUM SHIELD
Association Advantage Platinum is the premier resource for maximizing the performance of your group, providing leadership and administrative resources to help you elevate your organization with a focus on training,
meeting for all questions that don’t demand an immediate answer.
A Firm Hand
If you’re an association leader, remember that you were selected for your position because the members of your group trust you to work on their behalf. Your job isn’t to be popular; it’s to be effective. And if that means needing to get tough during a meeting to keep everything on track, so be it. The reality is the overwhelming body of your association will respect you for it.
assigning, legal issues and best practices specific to local officials association management.
TITANIUM & TITANIUM SHIELD
The Titanium solution is ideal for officials associations that want to maximize their organization’s performance while fully protecting both their organization and individual members.
DIAMOND
The most comprehensive solution for officials associations that want to fully protect both their organization and individual members, as well as provide full training and testing solutions with an emphasis on video. Association Advantage Diamond is the ultimate answer to every challenge your association faces.
To learn more, go to NASO.org/Advantage or call us at 262-632-5448
How to Find and Keep Officials
The shortage of officials continues to be a critical issue. As a result, finding and keeping officials are challenge we all face and should embrace. The 2023 National Officiating Survey powered by Referee. com provided insights into recruitment and retention. Completed by more than 35,000 sports officials from all levels and all sports, the data offers state and local associations and leagues reliable data to consider.
are worth or better. As a result, when recruiting and retaining officials, money should be a part of the discussion. It’s a factor. If states and local associations want to get and keep officials, pushing for and considering pay increases would likely help.
7 Takeaways From Officiating’s Largest Survey
don’t want officials to lose the enjoyment factor, the reason many started in the first place.
1. Many joined the ranks because an official asked them. The survey showed that 18% of respondents got into officiating because they were asked by an official at the time — more than any other response. In other words, it might be time to incentivize association members to recruit more officials, focusing on the individuals they know from their church, workplace, neighborhood and their own families. Sure, it’s always worth trying a variety of methods to recruit: media, social media, job fairs, and more. But the data reminds our industry not to forget about personal connections. If you want individuals to officiate, befriend them and they are likely to take the pitch more seriously.
2. Money is one of the reasons many get into officiating. According to the survey, 38% of officials said the chance to increase their income played a role in deciding to officiate. Although income was a factor in deciding to officiate, only 18% of officials believe they are being paid what they
3. Most new officials quit within the first 1-3 years. Close to 59% of respondents believe that adage. Whether or not you agree, it’s hard to argue against the idea that the first years in officiating are critical. Think about your own experience. The early years were likely the toughest. As a result, supporting newbies is essential. Providing a mentor is one thing many groups do, but quality training should also be a focus. While you don’t want to overwhelm new recruits at training meetings, if you don’t challenge them and provide essential training, they will likely be overwhelmed at their first games, which is worse. Preparing them for game situations and outside noise will go a long way toward keeping officials longer.
4. Officials are working more games because of the shortage. More games can be a positive for officials. However, it’s also a concern for retention. The survey revealed that 79% have taken more assignments because of the shortage. Burnout is real possibility if officials take on too many games. Burnout can potentially lead to getting out of the avocation all together. As a result, associations and mentors should coach officials to take advantage of opportunities without going too far. You
5. Sportsmanship is the worst at the levels at which officials start. Around 50% of respondents said youth competitive is the level at which sportsmanship is the worst. Some leagues are supporting new officials by identifying them as such, letting fans know they are learning like the kids playing on the field or court. Some assigners pair new officials with experienced officials so veterans can support them through the yelling.
6. Parents, coaches and fans cause the most sportsmanship problems. It’s not the kids who are the problem at youth levels. According to the survey, about 40% of officials believe that parents cause the most problems with sportsmanship, 25% believe it is coaches and 24% believe it is fans. As a result, some leagues are adding stiffer penalties for those who berate officials going as far as banning individuals and whole crowds at times or initiating silent Saturdays to make sure fans stay civil.
7. Safety concerns are real. Whether as the result of threats or actions, 49% of officials have felt unsafe or feared for their safety as a result of the behavior of an administrator, player, coach or spectator. Safety concerns can lead to officials exiting the ranks and it’s also a cause for many not wanting to give officiating a try. So leagues, administrators, and state and local associations need to work together to quell fears.
sports section
A Fan No Longer
By Joe Jarosz
When you don the stripes you enter into a contract, not only with the school or organization who hires you to arbitrate a contest, but with an extensive and intricate ecosystem of individuals who make up the sports officiating industry. This group of committed and qualified individuals work to safeguard the game
The contract between you and this community requires a number of commitments of yourself personally to the larger community. Many of the following have roots in the Code of Conduct for Officials, as adopted by the Officiating Development Alliance in January 2002: naso.org/ resources/code-of-conduct
Above all, officials contribute to the public’s confidence in sports. It’s the premise that drives everything that follows. It’s the reason li ve sports, without predetermined outcome, are so popular around the world. For as long as humans have inhabited the globe, competition has been a mainstay. Stage performance and scripted stories deliver on much of what interests people, but they can never satisfy the thrill of live athletics. Officials, therefore, must be free of obligation to any interest other
than the impartial judging of competition. This impartiality leads to the confidence in us, namely that “we don’t care who wins” and that we apply the rules and regulations of the sport in order to maintain order and fairness.
For this very reason, you essentially check your fandom at threshold of the doorway
if such school or team is not involved in the sport or level you are assigned. The blurred lines between fandom and officiating can cause a general feeling of unease among crewmates, administrators and participants. Our impartiality is sacrosanct and no clothing should interfere.
The contract between you and this community requires a number of commitments of yourself personally to the larger community.
into this community of arbitrators. Fans are emotional, officials are calm. Fans are often aggressive, officials are always professional. Fans are often brash, officials are tactful. Fans antagonize, officials respect. Fans almost always blame others, officials take responsibility for their actions.
As you reflect on your degree of fandom and your commitment to the high ideals of officiating, consider the following:
Wearing school or team apparel to the game site. We’re hired to do a job. Dress in a professional manner when you arrive to the contest site. This is not the occasion to wear school or team apparel, even
Using an email address for officiating business. Email is king when it comes to officiating assignments and communication. Pen and paper and facsimile are largely obsolete. Social media and mobile apps are not professional enough. Phone calls and voicemails are often viewed as inconvenient and cumbersome. When choosing or evaluating your email address with which to conduct officiating business, consider your future. You likely won’t be in your current employment or academic situation forever, so consider staying away from work or school addresses. Keep the characters simple and professional and never use any humor or allegiances which could be taken the wrong
way by assigners, supervisors, administrators or crewmates.
Having custom license plates or bumper stickers on your vehicle. License plates and bumper stickers are seen as avenues for expression by many. As a member of the officiating community, save your personal expression for other routes. You just never know what a crewmate, game management or fan might think about a given marking on your vehicle. The last thing you want to do is drive a wedge between yourself and one of these parties based on something that has nothing to do with the job you’re hired to do. Whether it’s political, religious, academic or humorous, a good rule of thumb is just be safe and save the expression for another platform.
Viewing sporting events in public. Most officials have an appreciation for the sports they arbitrate that dates back much longer than their formal start in officiating. Perhaps you played or coached. Perhaps you watched a family member or friend compete. Whatever your initial exposure was to the sport you now officiate, chances are you interact with it more than just when you are working. If you maintain a rooting interest in any sports or levels outside that which you officiate, consider the implications of your opinions. You are part of a global officiating community, and your opinions and actions are reflective of the larger group. Work to understand what your fellow officials go through before you express an opinion about an officiating decision you witness. Work
IT’S OFFICIAL - february 2025
to explain rules, mechanics and philosophies to other individuals with whom you watch sports. Educating the public will help the atmosphere we deal with. And when you witness someone tearing down the officials on a given contest, maybe just consider standing up for your brother or sister in stripes and push back a little bit to defend the collective community.
Using social media and the internet age. In this age of technology anything we say or do is more public than ever before. Be sensitive to the spread and permanence of anything you post on the internet. Be responsible in your use of social media and internet communication, and never use it for questioning judgment of a fellow official or communicating to the public what officiating assignment you have in the future. When in question, it’s likely better not to do, say or post.
Joe Jarosz is an assistant editor for Referee . He officiates college and high school football, college and high school basketball, and high school baseball.
BASKETBALL
SIZING UP SWITCHES
By the Referee editors
It comes up in almost every pregame discussion among high school officials working threeperson mechanics: “Are we long switching tonight?”
First, there is only one correct answer according to the approved NFHS officiating mechanics : “Yes.”
However, in order for that to be a correct answer, all
three officials working on the crew must understand when a long switch is supposed to occur and when it’s not. And there’s the rub. Between officials who don’t know the proper mechanic to begin with, officials who have been taught by other associations not to long switch, and officials who are just plain lazy and don’t want to partake in any “extra” movements, there is always a good chance someone on a crew is not even sure about when to long switch, even when the entire crew enthusiastically supports doing so.
So here, a simple refresher. If the lead official makes a foul ruling against the offense, NFHS mechanics mandate a long switch. For example, the lead official rules a charging foul against A1 on the low block tableside. The ruling official is going to move to the reporting area, report the foul and become the new lead official on the opposite end of the floor. The trail official is going to remain the trail official, making the long tableside switch with the ruling official and administering the team B throw-in on the endline. The center official remains in that position, opposite the table.
If the trail official makes a foul ruling against the defense in the backcourt, NFHS mechanics mandate there is no long switch. For example, A1 secures a rebound and is preparing to bring the ball up the floor on the tableside, and the trail official rules a foul against B1. The trail official is going to move to the reporting area, report the foul and remain the trail official, administering the backcourt throw-in for team A. The
center and lead officials will also remain in their positions. There is no long switch between the trail official and the lead official on this.
Where do things sometimes get confusing? During rebounding action. A1 shoots and misses, and during the battle for the rebound, A2 commits a foul that is called by the official standing on the endline. The defensive team has not yet secured possession when the foul occurs. So, if you are the ruling official on this play, are you the lead or are you the trail? And since the ball is now “going the other way” following the throw-in, is this a long switch or not?
The answer is yes. Remember, if you are the official on the endline and you have not yet begun a backcourt count, you are still the lead official. And if you are the lead official, any foul ruling you make on the tableside that is going to result in an endline throw-in going the other way requires a long switch.
SOFTBALL
The Dirt on Pregame Meetings
By the Referee editors
It’s often said in officiating circles that silence can’t be misquoted. That mantra is especially true when it comes to the pregame meeting with coaches. The less said at those meetings, the better.
That doesn’t mean umpires should say nothing during those meetings. It is imperative for the plate umpire to check both teams’ lineups and double check with each coach the lineup is accurate, there are no
duplicate numbers, all positions are accounted for and the DP/ Flex are in the right spots. It is also essential to go over the ground rules and make sure both coaches understand the nuances of the field. None of those tasks should take an inordinate amount of time.
The pregame meeting is not a time to have lengthy rules seminars or describe personal philosophies about the game. It should be considered a business meeting, not a time to chat socially or interject feelings into the game. Anything above and beyond the ground rules and lineup checks can be misconstrued and used against a crew at a later point in the game. The home plate umpire should lead the discussion and the focus should be on lineups and ground rules.
Another point of contention during pregame meetings occurs when an umpire has a lengthy conversation with one coach. That can give the impression there will be bias during the game as the opposing coach stands there and wonders why the conversation is one-sided. That is especially cringeworthy when the conversation deals with previous games, as the opposing coach now thinks there is a history between the other coach and the umpire. If you are one of the umpires not involved in the conversation, it can be extremely awkward as well.
Umpires should follow the following checklist during the pregame plate meeting as it avoids wasted time and reduces the potential for trouble.
• Introduce yourselves to both coaches.
• Receive the home team lineup card and check to make sure each player is listed, each
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IT’S OFFICIAL - february 2025
player has a position, each player has a number, the DP/ Flex are listed in the right spots and there are no duplicate numbers or positions. Also check to make sure subs are listed and note if any players are crossed off. After checking, ask the home coach if he or she would like to look at the lineup one more time to verify. Once the coach hands it back to the plate umpire, it becomes official.
and determine which rules will apply if it is a non-conference game.
• Do the exact same thing for the visiting team’s lineup.
• Once both lineups are handed back, announce they are official. Ask each coach if they have any changes. Coaches will often make changes regarding the DP/Flex at that time, so make sure to ask them if they have any changes and make sure the other coach is aware of any changes.
• The plate umpire then should lead the discussion on ground rules. Umpires should walk the field prior to the meeting to get clarification on all ground rules so they are the ones leading that discussion at the plate and not the home coach. Start with the backstop straight back and work around the field from first-base side to third-base side. Make sure to point out collapsible fences, tarps, out-of-play lines and any other obstructions on the field. However, there is no need to go into in-depth rules on how to handle those situations. They are spelled out in the rulebook. Never tell coaches if their fielders reach for a ball beyond an out-of-play line, the ball remains live. That myth has been perpetuated far too long and is a direct contradiction to the rules.
• Go over conference policies regarding extra innings and/or mercy rules
• Double check if there are any travel restrictions with the teams. If necessary, come up with a drop-dead time and write it down. This generally is only an issue in NCAA games, but could potentially be an issue at the high school level if a team is traveling a long distance. Better to ask and have the coaches say there is no issue than assume there is no issue and then find out there is a potential problem after the game has started.
• Answer any questions. Then shake hands to end the meeting. Be careful what is said at that handshake as a simple “good luck” can be misconstrued. Best to say, “Have a good one,” or, “Have a great game.”
• Report any lineup changes to the official scorer and then prepare for the national anthem, if there is one, or the first pitch.
Follow that checklist and keep your meetings short, sweet and to the point. That will help avoid unnecessary chatter and keep things professional. Start each game off that way to show command and set the tone for the game. A positive pregame meeting gets the game off on a great foot.
SOCCER
SNOW, SNOW, SNOW
By John Van de Vaarst
Winter soccer games can always be a challenge for referees, especially when there is a cold wind and/or snow. Soccer referees should dress appropriately for the conditions,
but should avoid overdressing where the clothing becomes cumbersome. Players are also impacted and must make the same decisions prior to the game.
How can referees stay warm during a game and still be able to run without any discomfort?
IFAB Law 5 is silent as to what constitutes a referee uniform. However, it is normally shoes, socks, shorts and a shirt. The NCAA has a prescribed uniform as part of Rule 5.2 and on ncaa. org. The NFHS provides the option of shorts or long pants (NFHS 5-1-3b). This option provides the opportunity for the officiating crew to wear long pants during extremely cold weather.
There are several options that could assist the referee with staying warm. Many years ago, officials would wear shorts and rub petroleum products around their knees to stop the wind from striking the skin directly. Today, there are several clothing products that are readily available that can help on a cold day. For example, tights under the shorts will help keep the legs warmer. Referees can wear long-sleeve turtlenecks that will help keep the upper body warm and protect the neck area. Undershirts with thermal, wind stop and/or sweat protection are very helpful. Gloves can be worn, as long as they allow the referee to write and reach in their pockets easily. Lastly, a skitype hat or a linear hood with an opening for the mouth area will keep the head warm.
Players are allowed to wear an undergarment under their shirts or shorts provided they are all similar in color. Hats are also permitted as long as they are soft billed, ski type or the linear hood. A hooded
sweatshirt under a uniform could be considered dangerous because an opponent could grab the hood and cause an injury. Goalkeepers may wear long pants as long as there is nothing dangerous as part of the pants. For example, sweat-type pants would be legal, but jeans with buckles or brads would not.
Now that the officiating team and players are dressed for the occasion, it is time to cover field conditions during inclement weather, especially snow. For games played under NFHS rules, the athletic administrator of the home team has the authority to determine if the field is playable prior to the start of the game (NFHS 1-71). Once the game has started, the referee is the sole authority as to whether the game should continue. NCAA rules indicate the authority is with the referee since the powers begin when they arrive at the field 30 minutes prior to the game. IFAB also leaves the authority with the referee. What are some of the conditions that must be considered? Is the field frozen hard and could players be injured if they are knocked to the ground? Is the field too muddy due to snow or rain? Are there large pools of water on the field? Is the goal area especially muddy from overuse? All of these are reasons that might determine the field is not safe to play a soccer game. Remember, safety of the players is paramount.
An officiating team arrives at a site and it is snowing. The field is deemed to be playable. As the game progresses, snow begins to stick to the ground and the lines become obscured. Now what? All rulebooks have a provision that if the lines become invisible or obscured, the lines shall be considered to be present and the
officials will make the decision if the ball has wholly crossed the line. It is also permissible to have the home institution clear the markings of snow during a stoppage or at halftime.
Player safety is the top priority of the officiating team. If snow gets too deep or the field becomes too slippery for safe play, the referee should suspend the game. If the field can be cleared quickly and the game resumed, that is permissible. However, if the field conditions cannot be improved, the game should not continue and a report should be submitted to the appropriate office.
When a field is still playable and the lines are covered with a coating of snow, the officiating team must be ready to make decisions on whether they believe the ball is over the goalline or touchline. The assistant referees must be able to look downfield at the corner flag to judge where the ball is in relation to the line. Good positioning is critical.
Referees must be prepared for the elements, especially during the winter months. Wearing proper attire and being prepared to make decisions on fields where the lines may be covered with snow are two more responsibilities that the officiating team must assume. John Van de Vaarst is Referee’s soccer coordinator.
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Pregame Technical Fouls Play: Prior to the game starting, (a) team A fails to submit its lineup and list of
starters to the official scorer prior to 10-minute mark on the game clock, (b) team B changes a number in the scorebook after the 10-minute mark on the game clock, (c) A1 dunks and then (d) B2 taunts A3, all occurring in that order. The officials are made aware of (a) and (b) and witness (c) and (d) prior to the game clock reaching 0:00 before the start of the game. What are the resulting penalties, and how shall the game begin? Ruling: In NFHS, team A shall be assessed an administrative technical for failing to supply the lineup in time in (a), team B shall be assessed an administrative foul for requiring a change to a number in the scorebook in (b), team A shall be assessed a team technical for the dunk in (c), and B2 shall be assessed a bench technical for the taunt in (d). Each team shall be charged two fouls toward their team foul counts for the first quarter. B2 shall be charged a personal foul in addition to a technical foul toward disqualification for the bench technical. Team B’s head coach is charged an indirect technical for B2’s bench technical and loses the coaching box for the game. Team A’s head coach does not lose the coaching box for the technical charged for A1’s dunk. Since the number of technical fouls by each team prior to the game were equal in number (two for each team), the penalties offset, no free throws are shot, and the game shall begin with a jump ball (101-1, 10-1-2c, 10-2-7, 10-5-1d). In both NCAAM/W, team A shall be assessed an administrative technical for failing to supply the lineup in time in (a), team B shall be assessed an administrative foul for requiring a change to a number in the scorebook in (b), and A1’s
IT’S OFFICIAL - february 2025
dunk is legal in (c). B2 shall be assessed a class A technical (NCAAM) or a bench technical (NCAAW) for the taunt in (d). Team B shall be charged one foul toward its team foul count in the first half (NCAAM) or first quarter (NCAAW) for B2’s technical foul and B2 shall be charged a personal foul in addition to a technical foul toward disqualification. Team B’s head coach is charged a class B technical (NCAAM) or indirect technical (NCAAW) for B2’s technical foul. Since the administrative technicals occurred during the same pregame period (NCAAM) or are fouls of equal gravity (NCAAW), they offset. Any member of team A shall shoot two free throws for B2’s technical foul and the game will begin with a jump ball (NCAAM 8-6.5, 10-2.2, 10-3.2.d; NCAAW 8-6.8, 10-12.2.b, 10-12.5.a.4).
first-base dugout. At the time of the throw, R1 had touched second. The umpire awards R1 home. The defensive coach argues R1 should not score since the throw that went out of play was the first play by an infielder and the award should be based on the position of the runner at the time of the pitch. Ruling: The umpire’s ruling is correct. When a play occurs in which the first throw by an infielder goes out of play but the batter did not become a runner (NCAA or pro) or the play did not involve a batted ball, the twobase award is always based on the position of runners at the time of the throw (NFHS 8-3-5; NCAA 8-3o3 Note 1; pro 5.06b4G Cmt.).
Not That Clever
BASEBALL
First Responder Play: With bases loaded, B4 hits a one-hopper to F5, who throws to the plate. The throw is off line and hits B4’s bat that had been tossed away from the plate by the umpire. Is this interference? Ruling: No. The bat in this situation is considered part of the playing field. Therefore, the ball remains live. (NFHS 8.4.1 Sit. E; NCAA 6.01a10; Pro 5.06c6)
Inconsequential Touching
Play: With R1 on first, R3 on third and no one out, a wild pitch is deflected a few feet out of the dirt circle. F2 retrieves the ball and hastily throws to F1 racing to cover the plate. The throw is in time, but off target and R3 scores easily. The ball gets by F1 and rolls into the
Play: R2, R3, no outs. B1 hits a fly ball to right field. The ball is caught and both runners tag and advance safely. The defense wants to appeal that R3 left third base early. The pitcher disengages the rubber and the new R3 (R2 advanced on the tag-up) takes off for the plate. The defense throws home and gets the runner out. Can they still appeal that the original R3 left third base early? Ruling: In NFHS and NCAA, the appeal is allowed because the play was initiated by the offense (NFHS 8.2.5 Sit. D; NCAA 8-6b4). In pro, an appeal is no longer allowed because a play has been attempted (5.09c4).
FOOTBALL
Roughing the Kicker
Play: Third and 20 from team A’s 10 yardline. A1 is under center when he takes the snap and throws a backward pass to fullback A2. Immediately upon receiving the pass, A2
gets off a quick kick. B3, who was blitzing on the play, takes two running steps and roughly knocks A2 to the ground. Ruling: B3 is guilty of roughing the kicker. A2 was, by definition, a kicker and is accorded protection from roughing. Even though the nature of the play was such that it was not obvious a kick would be attempted, B3 had plenty of time to determine it was a kick. The penalty is 15 yards from the previous spot and includes an automatic first down (NFHS 9-4-5; NCAA 9-116).
at the time the ball contacts her and had a potential play on the ball. Ruling: In all codes, the ball is dead, R1 is out for interference and B3 is placed on first. Since the ball did not pass an infielder, other than the pitcher, and was untouched before contacting R1, she is guilty of interference (NFHS 8-6-11 Pen.; NCAA 12.17.2.1.1 Eff.; USA Softball 8-7K Eff.; USSSA 8-18N Eff.).
to the batter’s count and R1 returned to first (NFHS 6-1 Pen. Exc. 2; NCAA 10.8 Eff. 1; USA Softball 6A-11B; USSSA 6-3A, C).
SOCCER
Caution Carryover
Runner Interference?
Simultaneous Catch?
Play: While airborne, A1 and B2 get their hands on a pass. What is the ruling if (a) A1 comes to the ground first, (b) B2 comes to the ground first, or (c) they land simultaneously? Ruling: Under NFHS rules, the players making a simultaneous catch need not touch the ground at the same exact time; the pass is complete to A1 in (a), (b) and (c). Under NCAA rules, the players’ contact with the ground must be at exactly the same time to rule a simultaneous catch. Otherwise, the ball is awarded to the player who first returned to the ground in possession of the ball. If that player landed out of bounds, the pass is incomplete. Thus in (a) and (c), the pass is complete to A1. In (b), it is an interception for B2 (NFHS 2-4-3; NCAA 2-4-4, AR 7-3-6 I and II).
SOFTBALL
Pitcher’s Plate Deflection
Play: R1 is on first base with one out when B3 lines a pitch up the middle. The ball hits the pitcher’s plate, ricochets and hits R1 between first and second. Both F3 and F4 are behind R1
Play: R1 is on first with two outs when B4 lines a pitch up the middle. The ball ricochets off F1’s leg and then accidentally hits R1 in the knee as she is running between first and second. R1 could not have avoided being hit by the ball and F4 is directly in line to make a play. Ruling: In all codes, this is not interference, unless judged by the umpire to be intentional, because the ball touched the pitcher. The positioning of F4 is irrelevant in this play. The ball remains live and all runners, including the batter-runner, may advance with liability to be put out (NFHS 8-8-6; NCAA 12.17.2.6.3 Eff.; USA Softball 8-8F; USSSA 8-18N Note 2).
Option Play
Play: R1 is on first with two outs and B4 is at the plate. F1 delivers an illegal pitch, but B4 swings and hits the ball over the fence. B4 had a foot on the plate while contacting the ball. Ruling: In all codes, the ball is delayed dead for the illegal pitch and immediately dead when B4 contacts the pitch because her foot is on the plate. Due to the illegal pitch, the offensive coach has the option of taking the result of the play (an out for contacting a pitch while in contact with the plate) or enforcing the illegal pitch penalty, which is a ball added
Play: During the second half of play with the scored tied, B1, the goalkeeper, is cautioned for dissent. Since this was a playoff game, a winner must be determined. After the overtime periods, the score is still tied and the winner must be decided by penalty kicks. When A2 is about to take a kick, B1 yells, “Don’t miss!” The referee displays the yellow card to B1 and then the red card for the second caution. Ruling: This is the correct decision for NCAA and NFHS games. For games played under IFAB, cautions do not carry over from regulation to penalty shootouts. Therefore, B1 would only receive a caution (NFHS 12-6-1a; NCAA 12.7.8; IFAB 10.3).
Who Whistled?
Play: A3 is carelessly fouled in the middle of the field. At the same time, A3 passes the ball to A4 and the referee signals for advantage, but A4 stops because someone in the crowd — not the referee or anyone on the team lists — has blown a whistle. Ruling: The referee is to stop play and award a direct free kick for team A at the point of the original foul. The advantage did not materialize because A4 stopped when the whistle was sounded (NFHS 5-3-1d; NCAA 5.4.3; IFAB 5.3).
Line It Up
Play: Team A is awarded a corner kick. A3 places the ball on the edge of the corner arc with half of the ball over the line. B2 lines up at the hash
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mark which is 11 yards from the corner flag and touching the goalline. Ruling: Since B2 is 10 yards from the ball, this is a legal position. However, the hash mark is touching the goalline which is an improper marking. The hash mark is to be one yard beyond the goalline. This improper field marking is to be reported to the appropriate game administrators (NFHS 1-210; NCAA 1.7; IFAB 1.2).
VOLLEYBALL
Playing at the Net
Play: A1 passes a served ball and the ball travels into the plane of the net near back-row setter, A2, who does not contact the ball, but whose hands are higher than the top of the net. The ball is next contacted by B3, a front-row blocker. The ball
lands out of bounds on team A’s side. The first referee blows the whistle and awards a point/loss of rally to team B and signals a back-row block on team A. Ruling: Incorrect. The ball was never contacted by the backrow setter of team A, which is required for a completed block. Team A’s setter can jump and have his or her hands above the height of net. For a back-row block to have taken place, the ball would have had to contact a body part of A2 while the ball was completely above the height of the net (NFHS 9-51c, 9-5-5a; NCAA 14.6.1 Note, 14.6.1.2; USAV 14.1.3, 14.6.2).
a hazard. The first referee allows the libero to play without any additional padding required. Ruling: Correct. Unaltered knee braces are not required to be padded if they do not pose a safety threat (NFHS 4-1-3; NCAA 7.2.4.1; USAV 4.5.1).
Serve
Equipment and Accessories
Play: The libero for team A is wearing a knee brace, which is unaltered from the manufacturer’s original design/ production and does not present
Play: A1 goes back to perform a jump serve. As A1 tosses the ball, it hits a support for a hanging basketball goal. The first referee whistles, awards a point to team B and signals out of bounds. Ruling: Correct in all codes. The server has a responsibility to assume a position that is not located under an obstruction. The server is not entitled to a re-serve and the correct mechanic is to signal out of bounds (NFHS 8-1-6; NCAA 13.1.3.2; USAV 12.6.1.2)
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