PRE GAME PROCEDURES

The pre game procedures is the first point of control in a game and one of the most important to the referee and all players. It should at all times be placed as first priority and never omitted from a games procedure.
1. Be punctual & make sure you have all your required equipment needed to referee a game (correct uniform, whistle, coin, pen, scorecard) please remember that NO jewellery (a watch for time keeping is allowed) is to be worn by referees on the field and no sharp fingernails are allowed.
2. Always stretch and warm up before a game.
3. All referees are responsible for the safety of the players and the game officials (referees) that are participating in a game. The match referee should at all times be aware of situations that may cause potential injury and assess those risks and act in a responsible manner to eliminate those risks.
4. Assess the condition of the playing surface; remove potential danger (debris etc) locate all the markers and familiarise yourself with the dimensions of the field. Make sure any safety equipment that is required has been put in position (goal post pads, cones, etc)
5. Address the participating teams or team captains. Explain your requirements and what you expect of each player on field. Explain any rules that may be required by the local authority or body in control of the venue.
6. THE TOSS – A coin is the best way to commence a game. It is clear and concise and the fairest for both team captains to decide their team options.

DURING THE GAME PROCEDURES

Communication by a referee on field is to be kept to the highest standard at all times.
1. All directions from the referee should be clear and precise.
2. A referee should talk to players (not at them) and communicate with a polite but strong personality and an appropriate voice pitch. This may vary in different game situations.
3. Communicate with team captains and place responsibility on them to inform their players of your directions and decisions.
4. Take the time to answer a question by the team captain.
5. BLOW YOUR WHISTLE LOUDLY.
6. Control the 5-meter mark. Most of the play is focused in this area and most decisions are made here.
7. Call players off side and out of play by number identification and look for defending players moving to early to make a touch. Play attacking advantage when you can.
8. Sound the touch count clearly. Keep track of the touch count at all times.
9. Be aware when the acting half has the ball. A good way to do this is to pinch or cross your fingers together and release them when they release the ball.
10. Be conscious of all roll ball and penalty marks.
11. Be conscious of infringements in the roll ball area for both attacking and defending players.
12. Be aware of boundary lines, score lines and sub box areas and incorrect use of them, control these areas.
13. Issue running warnings to offending players to maximize a free flowing game.
14. Initiate cooling off periods for re offending players when required.
15. Initiate period of time (The bin) if required to offending players.
16. Initiate a send off for major rule infringements.
17. Make courteous comments to players when appropriate (e.g. good touch, great try, good work getting back on side, honest call well done etcÖ)
18. NEVER ABUSE, STRIKE OR BE DELIBERATLY DEROGATIVE TO A PLAYER OR SPECTATOR.
19. Maintain consistency at all times.
20. Always strive for consistent and correct decisions.

POST GAME PROCEDURES

The Post Game Procedures are important to confirm all onfield information and to complete the evenings play.
1. On completion of the game, announce the score and have the Team Captains/ Organiser sign the scorecard as accepting the final score.
2. Collect all of the field equipment (Whistle, Scorecard, Pencil, Coin and Ball) and return to the Venue Official.
3. Assist the Venue Official with collecting the Cones, Roll-a-fields and any other equipment.
4. Ensure you pass the Scorecards to the Venue Official and inform the Venue Official of any incidents or disputes.
5. You may need to submit a referees report should the incident warrant it.
6. Always stretch and warm down after a game.sign the scorecard as accepting the final score.