20 HIS PLATE IS FULL MLB umpire. Union president. Lawyer. Devoted husband and father. Welcome to the busy life of Dan Bellino.
32 2025 CFP CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Go behind the scenes with the SEC football officiating crew in charge of the championship game in Atlanta.
52 PAIN IN THE ASSOCIATION Officials’ actions (or lack of them) can cause problems for their state associations.
FEATURES SPORTS
70 CANVASSING OFFICIALS
A mural at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta paints officials in a different light.
ON THE COVER
Age: 43
Occupation: Physical therapist
Officiating experience:
Umpires high school, college and USA softball. Has worked 15 NCAA conference tournaments, five regionals, five super regionals and a national championship.
COLUMNS
12 BASEBALL
It’s Not You, It’s Me: There Is a Method to Rotation Madness; Three Keys to Plate Perfection; Illegal Use of Hands
26 SOFTBALL
Keep It Routine: Familiarity Helps Prepare for Big Game; Unscore the Run?; In or Out?; R2 x 3, Who’s Got Two?
38 SOCCER
Keep Coaches in Check: NFHS Rule Changes Target Coach, Player Misconduct; 2025-26 NFHS Points of Emphasis
44 VOLLEYBALL
Know Your Role: Five Ways to Enhance the Officiating Experience; NFHS Adopts Four POEs; De Plane! De Plane!
56 FOOTBALL
Forward Fumbles Lead the Way: Eight NFHS Rule Changes Approved; 2025-26 NFHS Points of Emphasis
64 BASKETBALL
You’ve Got the Look: The Right Stature Will Help Your Stature; Is It Good if It Goes?; Dabble With the Double?
74 ALL SPORTS
Restart Readiness: Things to Remember When Play Resumes; Your Talent Flows When Your Ego Goes; When You’re Stronger Than Your Partner
4 PUBLISHER’S MEMO The Guardrails Replay Needs
6 THE GAG RULE
Letters: The Myth of Framing Pitches; Snap Shot: Whoop! Whoop!
8 THE NEWS
Virginia Passes Law to Protect Sports Officials; Four NFL Officials Working UFL; Cline Named New NCAA Umpire Coordinator
50 PROFILES
Wagner Put His Money Where His Mouth Is; Golden Years; From Captain to Referee
62 GETTING IT RIGHT Trio of Deaf Officials Makes History; ‘The Luckiest Man’; Remembering Riley
78 FOR THE RECORD
MLB Umpires Roster; UFL Officiating Crews
80 LAW
Disciplined Discipline; Do’s and Don’ts of Discipline
81 CLASSIFIEDS Camps/Clinics/Schools; Equipment/Apparel; Leadership Resources; Training Resources
82 LAST CALL
Gonna Miss You When I’m Gone: “I got to meet and pick the brains of so many incredibly talented officials from the pro, college and amateur ranks. Their ability was exceeded only by their generosity and graciousness.”
BASEBALL HIGHLIGHT THIS MONTH
In two-person umpiring mechanics, there are situations where the plate umpire must rotate up to third base to take the play on R1, and as action continues, may then have to return to the plate for another play on the runner, as Stu Rains, Mission Viejo, Calif., does here.
Anita Robinett Lee’s Summit, Mo.
PUBLISHER’S MEMO
The Guardrails Replay Needs
College basketball season is well behind us. Lots of exciting games. Lots of outstanding officiating. Lots and lots of replays. Let’s consider the following.
In late March, the venerable Wall Street Journal published a piece in its sports section on how replay is driving fans crazy (their words). The Journal had been tabulating the number and length of time for replays in the NCAA men’s tournament games leading up to the Sweet 16. Here is what they reported:
“In total, there have already been at least 52 reviews so far and together they have lasted a grand total of 111 minutes and 23 seconds. Considering that a college basketball game is only 40 minutes of action, that’s nearly three full games’ worth of watching officials huddle, stare at a monitor and eventually announce their decision.”
The report goes on to show how games have obviously gotten longer and now check in at over 2 hours and 4 minutes on average, a full five minutes longer than just a few years ago. They shared the following anecdote as a possible reason why, and I quote: “Late in the UCLA v. Utah State game, the game was stopped for 1 minute and 53 seconds to check an out of bounds call — never mind that UCLA was up by 21 with just 1:49 left in the game.”
The piece went on to state that like many other “leagues,” the NCAA has expanded what is able to be reviewed. We all know reviews are rampant in soccer (VAR) and certainly in professional and collegiate football. Heck, very expensive command centers have been built and staffed for the sole purpose of pursuing “perfection” in a number of different sports, and worldwide. They will be used.
There is an old adage that continues to nag at me: Just because
you can does not mean you should. I believe we are coming to such a fork in the replay road. Don’t misunderstand me: Replay, and its use, is a plus. It helps games be decided more fairly and it is an assist to the officiating crew when needed. Replay has become an essential ingredient in the theater of sports. It also plays this critical role: It helps verify the believability of outcomes. And let’s not forget how invested sports gambling is in the outcomes of games!
Technology is going to continue its evolution. The ability to capture and evaluate major, minor and miniscule occurrences during games will be enhanced. The technology is not the issue. The administration of that technology is. Guardrails need to be built, disseminated and enforced. Those who govern the games have an obligation to look at the bigger picture and help games not become an exercise in technical perfection. Not everything and maybe not even most things should be reviewed. There cannot be “flow” when games are interrupted and placed on hold time and time again. Use review for agreed upon “critical” situations. Defining that word “critical” is the assignment. A reasonable case could be made that fewer things should be reviewable, but I doubt that case will ever be made.
So, for us, what does the future look like? In my humble opinion it is this: The future will undoubtedly be a tighter and tighter working relationship with technology. Many are already in its throes. At first it serves as our consultant. Then it comes to serve as our master. Are we getting ready?
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Baseball • Basketball • Football • Lacrosse • Soccer
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THE GAG RULE
The Myth of Framing Pitches
After reading “The Myth of Framing Pitches” (Letter to the Editor, 2/25) a couple things come to mind.
After umpiring all levels of baseball beside pro and D-I college over my 62-year career, maybe I don’t understand what framing a pitch means — at least compared to some coaches, players and fans. It seems that if a catcher receives the ball and “pulls” it back over the plate, he has framed the pitch. Not in my book.
In doing that (pulling the pitch), the catcher tells me he thought the pitch was outside. I most likely did as well. When the catcher “sticks” the pitch, he receives the ball and holds it without moving it. That is correctly framing.
I also have some thoughts about a pitch itself. There are three elements: 1. Where it crosses the plate. 2. Where the ball hits the glove. 3. Where the catcher settles. Number 3 is what everyone sees and if it is near the zone, it looks like a strike, which is not always the case.
Roger Hammond Aurora, Neb.
THEY SAID IT
“How are your kids going to feel when other kids are like, ‘Is this your dad?’ and they hold up a mugshot because you got arrested for assault at a youth hockey game? Just do better!”
– ESPN Milwaukee’s Jen Lada during a segment on 620 WTMJ’s Wisconsin’s Morning News, reacting to the story of a Seattle man facing misdemeanor assault charges for shoving two teenage hockey officials to the ice in February.
SURVEY SAYS
“There’s nothing like walking out in a packed stadium, standing for an anthem, the adrenaline of being on pace with a counterattack or getting in the perfect position to nail the call and the satisfaction of the team orchestrating a successful match.
Whoop! Whoop!
Basketball official Paul Hungerford, Perrinton, Mich., shares a moment with St. Patrick High School (Portland, Mich.) coach Curtis Meyers during a Dec. 4, 2024, basketball game at Bath (Mich.) High School. Perhaps the topic of verticality or legal guarding position was on the table at the time.
Do you feel more appreciated recently by coaches, administrators and fans than previously?
“There’s also nothing like walking my daughter to and from the bus stop, helping her through homework and projects and life, taking in an anthem before supporting my wife’s team and being there for her through all her endeavors, spending time with the closest of family and friends.
“After 13 seasons in the MLS, I’m trading the former for the latter.”
– MLS referee Ted Unkel in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. Unkel’s wife is Christina Unkel, a retired FIFA referee and soccer Laws of the Game broadcast analyst.
37 %
63 % YES NO
Tell Us What You Think Send email to letters@referee.com
THE NEWS
Virginia Passes Law to Protect Sports Officials
RICHMOND, Va. — On March 21, Virginia became the latest state to pass assault/battery legislation to protect sports officials. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed into law Senate Bill 986 aimed at protecting umpires and referees from attacks. The new law, proposed by Virginia Sen. Angelia Williams Graves, will go into effect July 1.
“The goal is to protect them and to keep referees in the sport,” Williams Graves said at a committee hearing for the bill. “A lot of referees are leaving the sport and without referees, we have no games and without games, we have all of our young people left to their own devices within our communities.”
The new law makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor for a person to commit a battery against a sports official engaged in the performance of his or her duties or on the premises prior to engaging in his or her duties or upon conclusion of his or her duties.
In addition, the legislation provides that an individual who is convicted of such an act may be prohibited from attending any such sports event operated by the entity or organization that employed such sports official for a period of not less than six months as a term and condition of the sentence.
“This bill (idea) was brought to me by a referee/official who is
THE WIRE
Man Pleads No Contest in Referee Assault
The man charged in the assault of a referee at a youth basketball tournament in Papillion, Neb., in November 2024 has pleaded no contest. Joshua Littrell, 40, entered the plea April 2 on a misdemeanor third-degree assault. The judge ordered an investigation to take place ahead of Littrell’s sentencing, set for June 5. He faces up to a year in
in my district and has seen several incidents over the course of time with bad actors, most of them being parents, some being spectators, but unfortunately, most of them being parents,” Williams Graves said.
“And so, the idea was that there has to be something that is a deterrent.”
The Virginia High School League (VHSL) was not active in pushing for the legislation, but it sees the potential benefits.
“We hope it’s a deterrent,” said Kelley Haney, assistant director for athletics who oversees the VHSL officials program. “We address fan behavior in our handbook and sportsmanship rules, and we expect our schools to handle incidents. Now the legislation is another layer that we hope will be even more protection.”
With passage of the legislation in Virginia, there are 23 states with officiating assault and/or harassment laws (including 21 with criminal laws and two with civil statutes). Three states — Idaho, Washington and Missouri — also have supportive resolutions for officials.
In addition to Virginia, 14 other states have proposed bills this year to protect sports officials. Some of those are still active and others have died in committee.
jail as well as a $1,000 fine. The attack happened at a private boys’ basketball tournament when fans of an eighth grade boys’ basketball team rushed an official at the annual Factory Basketball tournament at a public school in Papillion. The supervising official said his referee was punched in the face by a parent after the referee stopped the game with several minutes left on the clock to
Four NFL Officials Working UFL
Four relatively new NFL officials are working in the United Football League (UFL) this season as the NFL gives them extra repetitions in live game play.
Umpire Scott Walker, line-ofscrimmage officials Brian Perry and Brian Sakowski, and deep wing Jeff Shears are working on referee Chris Coyte’s crew in the UFL.
Walker and Perry have one year of NFL experience each, Sakowski has two and Shears has three.
The UFL will provide the NFL an opportunity to groom officials who may be trying new positions, need improvement or just need more seasoning. Such an opportunity existed throughout the 1990s thanks to NFL Europe. That league folded due to financial constraints.
Creation of such leagues as the now-defunct All American Football League, United States
See “NFL/UFL” p.10
address unsporting behavior. Factory Basketball called the incident “heartbreaking” and said it has always prioritized safety but will work toward making improvements moving forward.
Hockey Parent Pleads Not Guilty in Referee Assaults
A Seattle man who shoved two youth hockey referees during a hockey game in February has
pleaded not guilty to charges of misdemeanor assault. Uriel Cortes Gonzalez, 42, of Renton, Wash., entered two not guilty pleas April 1 for two counts of fourth-degree assault at an arraignment in Seattle Municipal Court. A viral video showed Cortes Gonzalez shoving to the ground two referees, ages 12 and 14, during a youth hockey game at the Kraken Community Iceplex
SPEAKERS
TOPICS
Lisa Jones
NCAAW Basketball Referee
David UYL
RESPECT: Moments of comfort and convenience can be compared to times of challenge and controversy when measuring a person. Attendees will lean on that message to help uncover and implement the respect needed within yourself, your crew, your staff and your association.
WORKSHOPS: Narrowly focused topics compiled into a vivid, dramatic picture of how to lead in developing, directing and defending officials.
Montgomery will be the place to be this summer for anyone who cares about the future of sports officiating. Register now for two and a half days of networking, social events, small group breakouts and a full program focused on the hottest issues facing officials and officiating leaders.
NCAAM Basketball Referee
sandra serafini
NCAA Baseball Umpire doug sirmons
Retired FIFA Soccer Referee
RON TORBERT
NFL Referee steve shaw
NCAA National Coordinator of Football Officials
MOTIVATION: Propel officiating forward. Inspiration, performance, communication and human potential are certain to serve officials and their leaders in advancing the industry.
SUPPORT: A strong foundation is the base for any useful defense mechanism — and when the pressures mount, officiating leaders must lean on that firm structure to support officials and answer to other stakeholders.
LEADERSHIP: With great power comes great responsibility! Demands being made on officials have never been greater and we must be equipped to rise to the occasion. Learn how to effectively lead officials at all levels.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT: People are your number one asset so listen to some of the industry’s best in this panel discussion of how to identify, hire, support, direct and celebrate a staff of officials.
07/27-7/29 montgomery, al
Cline Named New NCAA Umpire Coordinator
INDIANAPOLIS
— The NCAA in March announced the hiring of longtime college baseball umpire
Scott Cline as its new national coordinator of baseball umpires, effective Sept. 1.
Cline will take over for George Drouches, who announced in January his intention to retire from the position after 11 years at the helm.
During an onfield career that spanned more than a quarter-century, Cline was selected to work the Men’s College World Series (MCWS) four times, most recently serving as a crew chief at the 2024 MCWS. He was chosen to work 10 NCAA Division I super regionals and 20 NCAA Division I regionals. While primarily working in the Southeastern Conference, where he worked 13 conference tournaments, Cline also worked postseason tournaments in the Atlantic Coast, Ohio Valley, Sun Belt and Southwestern Athletic conferences.
“While I wasn’t quite ready to come off the field, I wasn’t sure this particular opportunity would become available again in my career,” Cline said. “I had accomplished everything I
THE
WIRE in February. Cortes Gonzalez initially told police he was trying to defend his son and break up a fight, but authorities stated the video evidence disputed his claim.
A judge ordered Cortes Gonzalez not to return to the Kraken Community Iceplex, where he is already banned, and he is also prohibited indefinitely from participating in any activities with the Pacific Northwest Amateur Hockey Association, pending a hearing. The judge also granted anti-
could accomplish on the field, and I just thought the timing was right to take on this role and hopefully help do some things to help the umpires on the field.
“Collegiate baseball, in particular, has become increasingly difficult to officiate. I think I have some ideas that I hope to be able to implement to ease the burden a bit for the officials on the field. I also have a passion for training officials and watching them develop and grow.”
As NCAA national coordinator of umpires, Cline, who resides in Nolensville, Tenn., will be responsible for managing the activities of the NCAA Baseball Umpire Program. This includes assisting the NCAA Division I Baseball Committee in the identification, training, selection and evaluation of the 96 umpires selected to work the Division I Baseball Championship, which culminates with the MCWS each June in Omaha, Neb.
“Scott has earned the respect of fellow umpires, baseball coaches and athletics administrators, and will provide leadership to the NCAA Baseball Umpire Program, building on the great job that George Drouches has done,” said Randy Buhr, NCAA director of championships and alliances, and staff liaison with the NCAA Baseball Umpire Program.
harassment orders for the two young referees involved. A not guilty plea is fairly standard procedure at an arraignment; Cortes Gonzalez is scheduled to return to court May 1 for a pretrial hearing.
NFL to Replace Chain Gangs
The NFL is replacing its onfield “chain gang” crew with new technology to decide ball placement and first downs during games next season. During the league’s annual winter
NFL/UFL continued from p.8
Football League, World League of American Football and XFL, which morphed into the UFL, helped the NFL regain those lost opportunities.
Most of the officials on the UFL staff are on NCAA Power Four conference staffs.
The vast majority are being scouted by the NFL under the Mackie Development Program, created by the league in 2013 to provide training to select officials eyed as NFL prospects.
Originally called the Officiating Development Program, it was renamed in 2022 in honor of the late Wayne Mackie, a retired head linesman who served as the longtime NFL vice president of officiating evaluation and development.
The UFL has eight teams playing a 10-game schedule.
The season began March 28 and will conclude with the championship game on June 14. The UFL has eight seven-person crews.
Two people formerly involved with overseeing officiating in the NFL serve as vice presidents of officiating for the UFL: Mike Pereira and Dean Blandino.
meetings, it announced that Sony’s Hawk-Eye technology will be used as the primary method for measuring the line to gain, beginning with the 2025 season. The technology, which was tested extensively last season, will bring “a new level of precision and speed to NFL officiating,” according to a news release from the league.
“Combining the art of officiating with Sony’s trusted Hawk-Eye system is a healthy recipe for success in our commitment to raising
the standards of accuracy, consistency and efficiency,” said Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations, in the release. “Replay technology and data-driven insights from Sony’s Hawk-Eye innovations aid us in advancing our efforts toward the future of football.”
Majority of ABS Calls
Overturned During Spring MLB’s tryout of a challenge system utilizing automatic ball-strike (ABS) technology this
Man Puts Referee in Headlock During Game
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — An Oliver Springs, Tenn., man is facing an assault charge after he put a basketball referee in a headlock March 29 during a game.
An arrest warrant was issued for Jerry Crass, 54, on charges of assault and disorderly conduct after an incident during the game at Grace Christian Academy in Knoxville. According to the warrant, officers were called to the gym at about 1:18 p.m. for a report of an assault. Officers spoke with a referee who
said one of his crewmates was assaulted by a player’s parent, later identified as Crass, the warrant said.
The incident took place when Crass disagreed with a call the referee made during the game. The referee ejected Crass from the court, at which point Crass put the referee in a headlock and dragged him to the ground, according to the warrant.
A video on social media showed the altercation, including Crass grabbing and pushing the referee as a group of bystanders attempt to
intervene. The video also showed Crass pushing a woman, who witnesses said was Crass’s wife, when she tried to intervene, the warrant said.
Police were able to identify Crass as the suspect and issued a warrant March 31 for his arrest. Crass later turned himself in and bonded out, according to the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. Crass was scheduled for arraignment at 8:30 a.m. April 8.
SOURCE: WBIR-TV (KNOXVILLE, TENN.)
Official Sentenced for Embezzlement From Association
A longtime Wisconsin official was recently convicted of felony theft for embezzling nearly $5,000 from his local officials association while he was treasurer, mainly to support his gambling expenses.
Robert W. Fletcher, 73, of Appleton, Wis., was found guilty in December 2024, admitting to misusing funds from the Fox Cities Officials Association (FCOA), according to circuit court records.
As part of a deferred judgment agreement, Fletcher was ordered to pay $4,781 in restitution to the FCOA. He is also prohibited from officiating any Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association-sanctioned games for at least 18 months.
A former FCOA Hall of Fame member before his conviction, Fletcher called his actions “the biggest mistake of his life,” according to the criminal complaint. He was charged after FCOA officers accused him of discrepancies found in the association’s funds, leading the FCOA to report the issue to local law enforcement.
Investigators said Fletcher withdrew about $22,000 between 2020 and 2023 for gambling as well as personal expenses, repaying about $17,000 to the FCOA, but still owing more than $4,700, according to court records.
Under terms of the judgment agreement, he has the opportunity to have the charge reduced and
dismissed if he meets specific conditions over the next 18 months. He has been a state-caliber high school football, basketball, baseball and softball official for nearly 40 years as well as working college games. According to the WIAA officials directory, Fletcher is not licensed in any sports for the 2025 year.
Fletcher has also been barred from entering casinos during this time, according to court records, as well as contacting the victims or their families.
Failure to meet any of the deferred judgment terms could result in the agreement being revoked, according to court records, which would allow the court to proceed with a conviction on the felony theft charge.
past spring training resulted in 52.2% of calls getting overturned, according to data from the league. The HawkEye technology used by the ABS zone was available in 13 ballparks for 288 Cactus and Grapefruit league games played this spring, with an average of 4.1 challenges per game. Delays caused by challenges averaged 13.8 seconds — the time it takes for a batter, pitcher or catcher to indicate the challenge, the home plate umpire to signal to the press box that a review was
requested, and then for the ABS verdict to be displayed both on a stadium video board and for viewers at home. Subsequently, time of game increased slightly, from two hours and 35 minutes in 2024 to two hours and 38 minutes this spring.
Teams were granted two challenges a game and retained a challenge if it was successful. The number of challenges from hitters (2.1 per game) and pitchers and catchers (2.0) were roughly the same. Catchers were most successful with their
challenges: Reviews initiated by catchers were overturned 56% of the time. Batters were correct 50% compared to just 41% for pitchers.
Sexist Chants Prompt Investigation
The German Football Federation (DFB) has opened an investigation into reports that referee Fabienne Michel was subjected to sexist abuse by fans during a third-division match March 28 between SC Verl and Rot-Weiss Essen.
Michel, 30, is currently the only female referee in Germany’s top three professional soccer leagues. During the first half of the match between Verl and Essen, Michel inadvertently stood in the way of Essen midfielder Klaus Gjasula as he tried to get in position to block a shot on goal. After making a similar positional error in the second half, Essen supporters could be heard chanting the word “Hure” (whore) at her.
EDITOR: SCOTT TITTRINGTON stittrington@referee.com
COORDINATOR: PATRICK FAERBER pfaerber@referee.com
IT’S NOT YOU, IT’S ME
There Is a Method to
Rotation Madness
By Patrick Faerber
Here’s the situation: You’re working the two-umpire system with a runner on first base and one out. B3 hits a single to left field. R1 rounds second and attempts to obtain third base.
The plate umpire, about halfway to third base, starts reading that a play may develop on R1 at third base. But before going any farther, U1 gives the plate umpire a one-handed stop signal. This is to tell the plate umpire there is no need to rotate and U1 can cover a play on R1 at third base.
This may seem like a friendly
gesture, taking some work off your plate umpire. However, it’s counterproductive to our goals of getting plays right, and ultimately stems from a misunderstanding of this mechanic and the fundamentals of the two-umpire system.
The Mechanic
If a play develops at third base on R1, the primary calling responsibility for this play belongs to the plate umpire, as seen in the MechaniGram on the next page. The same rotation and responsibilities exist on a base hit to the outfield with runners on first and third.
On a clean base hit to the outfield, the plate umpire should rotate up to third. If the play started with runners on first and third, the plate umpire should still rotate and peek over the shoulder to see the touch of home by R3.
As the plate umpire is rotating up to third, the first action should be to yell to the base umpire, “I’ve got third if he comes!” This lets the base umpire know the plate umpire remembered the rotation and is going to cover R1 on a play at third.
Then, if a play does develop at third base, the plate umpire again yells, “I’ve got third!” This is done
In two-person umpiring mechanics, there are situations where the plate umpire must rotate up to third base to take the play on R1, and as action continues, may then have to return to the plate for another play on the runner, as Stu Rains, Mission Viejo, Calif., does here.
while moving into the cutout at third base and into fair territory. The reason for the second exclamation, “I’ve got third!” is because we want to make sure our base umpire does not make a call on the same play and knows to maintain focus on the batter-runner.
If, as the plate umpire is rotating up to third, it’s clear a play is not going to develop against R1 into third base, the plate umpire then yells to the base umpire, “I’m going home!” PU then heads back to the plate in case R1 ends up attempting to score. This alerts U1 that the base umpire will have plays on both runners at any base and needs to split the distance between the two runners.
The Reason
So, why does the plate umpire take this call at third base? This stems from the fundamentals of umpiring and understanding the difference between being responsible for one runner and multiple runners.
If the plate umpire does not rotate, U1 is responsible for two runners. And when our base umpire has multiple runners, that means the need to split the distance between the two, ready for whatever play develops. The area from which U1 will work, commonly referred to as the “working area,” is behind the mound, roughly between the B and C positions. This means if a play develops on R1 at third base, U1 cannot go farther than the edge of
the working area to see this play. This leaves quite a bit of distance between the umpire and the potential tag play going away from the umpire and into third base. Not an ideal look for a bang-bang play.
But if our plate umpire is able to rotate to third base for this play, PU only has the one runner and is able to get right on top of the play by taking it in the cutout at third base. This provides a much better distance and angle compared to what the base umpire would have had from the working area. This is why the mechanic exists. Our plate umpire can get much closer to the play, which increases the crew’s odds of getting the call correct.
Not So Fast
Sometimes, the mechanic becomes unrealistic, and crews must be prepared for this. A great example would be with a runner on first, two outs and a 3-2 count on the batter. R1 should be running as soon as the pitcher commits to deliver the pitch (simply put, stealing). In this scenario, R1 could be more than halfway to second base before the ball is even hit. This means our plate umpire is going to have to be very fast to get to third base for a play on R1.
In this scenario, it’s simply unrealistic that our plate umpire will make it to third base for the play. So, our plate umpire should be
TOOLS
Game Changing Film Review
Video is a top training tool for umpires — especially when it’s your own work. NFHS Network is one option. Another is GameChanger, which is used for many youth and high school games streamed live by parents using a single camera behind the backstop. The streams are saved and available for replay, giving umpires valuable chances to review mechanics and improve.
QUICKTIP
The most common balk is the no-stop balk, where the pitcher fails to pause in the set position. Many base umpires miss this because they aren’t in their set position, either. If umpires wait until the pitcher comes set to get to the hands-on-knees position, they end up moving at the very moment they need to evaluate if the pitcher has stopped. To improve focus and avoid missing balks, umpires should get into a hands-on-knees set position as soon as the pitcher engages the pitching plate with the ball.
THEY SAID IT
“The call is surprisingly correct.”
— MLB umpire Mike Muchlinski after his called ball was upheld following a player challenge during a 2025 spring training game. The ABS challenge system won’t be used in the 2025 MLB season but was tested in spring training before the season.
TEST YOURSELF
In each question, decide which answer is correct for NFHS, NCAA or pro rules. Solutions: p. 81.
1. With the bases loaded, one out and a 1-1 count, B5 lays down a suicide squeeze bunt that rolls into foul territory near the firstbase foul line. Due to the spinning action on the ball, the ball is rolling back toward the foul line and has a chance of becoming a fair ball. The pitcher and catcher are running toward the ball, and the pitcher yells, “Touch it foul,” at which time the catcher scoops up the ball with the mask he is holding in his throwing hand while in foul territory. All runners advance one base. All runners advanced one base before the ball is touched.
a. Foul ball. No runs score and a strike on the batter.
b. Dead ball. Score three runs and put the batter at first base.
c. Dead ball. Score three runs and put the batter at third base.
d. Dead ball. Score one run and put the batter at first base.
2. A runner acquires the right to the proper unoccupied base if the runner touches the base before being put out. The runner is then entitled to this base until:
a. The runner is put out.
b. The runner legally touches the next base while it is unoccupied.
c. The runner is forced to advance to the next base by a following runner.
d. All of the above.
3. When an improper batter’s actions are made legal, the batting order picks up with the name:
a. Of the batter who was skipped over by the improper batter.
b. Of the batter the defense chooses to bat next.
c. Of the batter following that of the legalized improper batter.
d. The inning will be declared over.
4. The pitcher, in the windup position, may:
a. Deliver a pitch.
b. Legally step backward off the pitcher’s plate.
c. Legally attempt a pickoff at an occupied base.
d. All of the above.
e. A and B.
yelling, “I’m staying home!” as soon as making a read that making it to third base in time for a play on R1 is impossible. This tells the base umpire to take responsibility for multiple runners, including any potential plays on R1 at third base. It’s not as ideal as the plate umpire making the call, but it is better than our plate umpire trying to make the call less than halfway to third base.
Some crews will also discuss this situation pregame and agree to alter the mechanic so the plate umpire always stays home when this scenario occurs. This alleviates any miscommunication that might occur on the fly.
One Final Thought
The purpose of this mechanic is to give us the best opportunity to get the call correct at third base. To get
the best look possible requires a wellexecuted rotation by the plate umpire. Ultimately, with the base umpire facing toward the outfield and the plate umpire with the wide view of the field, only the plate umpire can determine if a play could develop at third base and if physically getting into position for the play is possible. So, on this rotation, only the plate umpire has the information needed to decide if there should be a rotation. There is no decision-making for the base umpire. Let the plate umpire read the play, trust PU’s abilities and ultimately determine what gives the crew the best chance to get the call right.
Patrick Faerber, Alpharetta, Ga., is a former professional umpire who now works high school baseball and football. He is Referee’s baseball coordinator. *
Three Keys to Plate Perfection
By Bill Ward
Doyou sometimes suddenly feel like you’re struggling at the plate? One game, you’re fine, and the next you’re just … off? Take a quick inventory of yourself. If you ever feel yourself struggling at the plate, it is typically due to one or a combination of three things:
Positioning. Tracking. Timing.
Let’s break it down.
Positioning
Are you attacking the slot? I see many umpires “hiding” behind the catcher. Sometimes, they may have their feet in a good position, but their upper body leans toward the catcher and away from the slot. This position not only puts your head in the danger zone from foul balls but also hurts your ability to see pitches due to the catcher’s head blocking more of your view. Try getting your nose halfway
between the batter’s chest and the catcher’s ear.
Are you too far back? This can make it difficult to see that troublesome low, outside pitch. If you can’t see the whole plate, you need to adjust. If you have trouble getting close to the catcher because your knee hits him in the back, try turning your non-slot foot out as you drop into your stance. This will cause your knee to go horizontally behind him instead of straight into his kidney, allowing you to get closer.
Are your feet “flat” or possibly even inverted (a common problem when a left-handed batter is at the plate)? Check and make sure your slot foot is forward, at least heel to instep (see PlayPics, next page).
Are you moving as the pitch comes in, so your positioning is in flux? Lock in and track the ball with just your eyes. It’s hard to focus on a moving object when your head is also moving. After a few pitches, you can tell what the catcher does pre-pitch.
Some have late movement. If that is the case, don’t set up too soon where you can’t adjust. For example, many catchers will move forward just as the pitcher starts his delivery, so if you have already “dropped in,” you will be too far back and unable to see the whole zone.
Tracking
Perhaps the most crucial element: Are you seeing the ball all the way into the catcher’s mitt? A common problem is losing the pitch out in front of the plate shortly after it enters the dirt circle — right before it enters the critical area of the strike zone.
You must track the ball into the mitt and keep your eyes there until the catcher transfers the ball to his throwing hand. You should be able to tell what brand of mitt he is using. Keep your head still and track the ball only with your eyes. Don’t let your eyes wander, even after the pitch is caught.
A good way to develop eye discipline is to take a balled-up sock, put on your mask and throw the sock in the air while lying on your back. Track it all the way to your hand as you catch it (making sure not to blink).
Timing
This is the most common mistake. Good, slow, deliberate timing is an umpire’s best friend. Quick, hasty, rushed timing is an umpire’s worst enemy. You must allow yourself time
to replay the pitch in your mind before you make your decision — not just before you make your call, but before you make the decision.
We know that we verbalize “ball” while still down in our stance and that we first stand up before making our mechanic for strikes. Plate timing begins when the ball hits the mitt. It doesn’t end with the call; it ends with your first movement or utterance. As soon as you say anything or make any movement, timing is over — even if you take five more seconds before calling, “Strike!”
Stay down and locked in while you process what you saw, then say “ball” or come up and make your mechanic. It may seem like forever to you, but it isn’t as long as it feels. Besides, it adds an element of drama and anticipation to the game — leaving everyone on the edge of their seat, waiting to see what you will call. Give them their money’s worth and do your part to make the game more exciting!
Some pitches don’t require much processing. Use those to your advantage and go even slower on them. Nobody needs you to make that call because it was so obvious, so take the opportunity to build up the balance in your bank of credibility for when you do need to take time to process. They don’t know what is happening inside your head — whether you are debating the viability of calling that borderline pitch a strike
or simply telling yourself, “Oh yeah, that’s a strike all day long.”
By taking your time on the easy ones, you establish your timing so that when you do have to take a bit longer to think about a pitch, it doesn’t seem any longer — thus avoiding the stupid comment that “he had to think about it” (don’t they want us to think about what we are doing?).
Read the Catcher and the Batter
Observing how the catcher receives pitches is another tool to help when you’re struggling. But to do this requires tracking the ball all the way into the mitt and timing that allows you the opportunity to take all this information in to make a decision. If a pitch is near the edge of the zone, watch how your catcher handles it. Did he stick it to show you a strike, or did he have to stretch all the way across his body? Did he immediately throw it back to the pitcher without hesitation, thinking it wasn’t anywhere close? These are subtle cues that can help reinforce your calls.
The same applies to batters. With two strikes, did the hitter immediately start walking toward the dugout before you even made your call? Sometimes, even the batter will tell you it was strike three. But the only way to pick up on these messages is to maintain good timing — stay down, process and let the play unfold before making your call.
We all have that occasional game
The Box: profile view
The Box: front view
CASEPLAYS
Bat Boy Blunder Play: With R2 on second, R1 on first and two outs, there is a 3-2 count on B5. Both runners are advancing on the pitch. B5 swings and misses, and F2 deflects the ball toward the firstbase dugout. Thinking the pitch was fouled, the bat boy picks up the ball before F2 can get to it. Seeing that the pitcher failed to cover the plate, R2 races home. R1 stops at second and B5 makes it to first. Ruling: This is intentional interference by authorized personnel. The ball should be signaled dead at the time it is picked up and penalties invoked to nullify the act of the interference. In this case, R2 should score since no one was covering home. R1 should be placed at second and B5 placed at first since they were not attempting to advance beyond those bases (NFHS 8-3-3e; NCAA 4-7, 4-8; pro 6.01d).
Lights Out, But Play On Play: With no one on base, B1 hits a ground ball to F6. As the ball is being fielded, two banks of lights go out, one along foul territory in right field and one bank behind home plate. F6 cleanly fields the ball and throws to F3, who secures the ball while standing on the base. The lighting was diminished, but the umpires were able to follow the play easily. B1 stopped running near the 45-foot line. Ruling: Since the umpires were still able to follow the play without difficulty and the fielders were not impaired, the play stands, B1 is out. The ball is not automatically dead when light failure occurs (NFHS 5-2-1b; NCAA 6-5a; pro 5.12b2).
Tastes Like Cheating Play: With R1 on first, F1 is on the mound but not in contact with the pitcher’s plate when he goes to his mouth and doesn’t immediately wipe it off. Ruling: When the pitcher engages the pitching plate the batter is awarded a ball on his count (NFHS 6-2-4e; NCAA 9-2d; pro 6.02c1 Pen.).
where things suddenly don’t “click.” Don’t get down on yourself and fall into “quicksand” — the more you dwell on your mistakes, the more mistakes you make.
Practice having a positive mindset. You are what your brain tells you that you are, so don’t tell yourself how bad you’re struggling. Instead, tell yourself that you’re a good umpire, qualified to work this game and that you got this. Then, use your understanding of plate mechanics to analyze whether your positioning, tracking or timing is causing the problem.
By staying mindful of these three fundamentals, you’ll be able to identify problems on the fly and make the necessary adjustments midgame. Struggles happen, but the best umpires don’t let them define their game — they recognize, adapt and improve. Keep your timing sharp, trust yourself and work through the tough moments. The best umpires don’t just call the game — they master it.
Bill Ward, Madison, Ala., officiates in seven college conferences and remains active in high school umpiring. *
Illegal Use of Hands
By George Demetriou
“Illegal use of hands” is a wellknown penalty in football, but in baseball, improper hand use can also be penalized. While hands are essential in every aspect of the game — from gripping the bat to fielding and pitching — misuse, though rare, can have serious consequences.
This article explores the various ways hands can be used illegally in baseball, covering key rules and notable examples across different levels of play. Unless specified otherwise, the rules discussed apply to NFHS, NCAA and professional baseball.
Fisticuffs
Any overt act by a runner using his hands or arms to dislodge the ball from a fielder is illegal. Grabbing, tackling, slapping at the baseball, punching or using the arms in a malicious manner is considered unsportsmanlike and is explicitly prohibited by NFHS, NCAA and MLB rules (NFHS 8-4-2r; NCAA 8-5r; pro interp., MLBUM II-54).
A well-known example occurred in Game 6 of the 2004 ALCS. With Derek Jeter on first, Alex Rodriguez hit a roller up the first-base line. As Red Sox pitcher Bronson Arroyo reached to tag him, A-Rod slapped at Arroyo’s glove, knocking the ball loose. Jeter scored and Rodriguez reached second.
But after a quick conversation between the umpires, they ultimately ruled A-Rod out for interference, returning Jeter to first.
Ball Grab
Runners and batters should never touch a live batted, thrown or pitched ball. While picking up a dead ball is harmless, handling a live ball can result in interference. A common example occurs when a catcher blocks a pitch in the dirt. Some batters, with no runners on base, may tap the ball back with their bat or hand it to the catcher. While seemingly harmless, if a runner is on base, interference could be called.
Batted balls rolling near the foul lines also follow a strict rule. Touching a fair ball is always interference, but even a foul ball can lead to an out if the umpire believes it had a chance to roll fair (NFHS 7-41i; NCAA 7-11o; pro 6.01a2, MLBUM II-48). The same level of judgment applies to uncaught third strikes where a deflected pitch could result in awkward contact and potential interference by a batter-runner trying to reach first base (NFHS 8-4-1a; NCAA 7-11h Note; pro 6.01a1).
In a June 1995 A’s-Rangers game, Mark McGwire singled with Rickey Henderson on second and Stan Javier on first. Rusty Greer’s throw home was bobbled by catcher Pudge Rodriguez, allowing
Improve pace and efficiency without sacrificing control. Packed with practical tips and proven strategies, this book will help you manage game flow like a
Henderson to score. While sitting near the plate, Henderson nudged the ball before Rodriguez could grab it. Rodriguez’s late throw to third resulted in Javier being called out due to his teammate’s interference. Since Henderson’s run had already scored legally, it counted despite the interference (NFHS 9-1-1; NCAA 5-6c Note 1; pro 5.08a Cmt.).
Balancing Acts
Sliding is a controlled act, and while balance may not be as important as it is in funambulism (tightrope walking), runners must use the principles of physics to keep the center of their mass where they want it to be. That is why you will sometimes see flailing arms as the slide is started.
Such was the case with Aaron Judge’s slide involving an oven mitt. In an April 2024 game between the Yankees and Brewers, Judge was forced to second on a Jason Verdugo ground ball to second baseman Brice Turang, who flipped to shortstop Willy Adames to start an inning-ending 4-6-3 double play. However, Adames’ throw to first deflected off Judge’s outstretched sliding glove. Brewers manager Pat Murphy argued Judge had committed interference; the umpires huddled and stayed with the no-call.
Indeed, if Judge had raised his arm to deflect the ball, it would have been an intentional act worthy of an interference call for a double play. If the umpires judged (no pun intended) that Judge’s raised arm was a natural part of his slide, the burden would be on Adames to realize the size of the runner approaching and react accordingly.
A Helping Hand
Contact between a runner and a teammate is not always illegal, but it very much depends on the situation and the individuals involved.
During a dead ball, it’s hard to find a situation where the contact would be illegal. A third-base coach can high-five a home run hitter as he rounds third, and a player can slap him on the back as he gets to the plate. This is supported by rules and caseplays, along with the intent of the rules to prohibit unfair assistance to a runner that the defense is trying to make a play on.
During a live ball, we must look for unfair contact that assists a runner. In live-ball situations, a runner can only receive assistance from another runner. Assistance from anyone else results in interference (NFHS interp.; NCAA 5-3 Pen. 2; pro 6.01a Cmt.). Any batter or runner who has just been put out, or any runner who has just scored, who hinders or impedes
Exit, Stage Left!
One of the first mechanics umpires learn is how to handle a ground ball in the infield with no runners on base. It’s a routine play, and the NFHS and CCA manuals reflect that: U1 positions for the play at first,
If a coach uses his hands to aid a baserunner during a live ball, this is interference and results in an out on the runner.
while the plate umpire moves up the first-base line to assist on a potential swipe tag or pulled foot.
But a detail not fully explained in the manuals — or even clear in the MechaniGram on the next page — is
any following play being made on a runner will result in the runner the play was being made on being called out (NFHS 8-4-2g; NCAA 8-5p; pro 6.01a5).
A missed plate and a helping hand have led to interference calls multiple times in MLB history. One notable example occurred in a 2010 game between the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals. Willie Harris appeared to hit a three-run double, but Nyjer Morgan was called out at home after colliding with catcher Bryan Anderson and failing to touch the plate. Ivan Rodriguez, who had just scored, instinctively grabbed Morgan and pushed him toward home. However, by rule, this assistance constituted interference, and Morgan was ruled out, underscoring the strict limitations on who can aid a runner on the bases. George Demetriou, Colorado Springs, Colo., is the state’s rules interpreter. *
the reason for the plate umpire’s looping path around the right-handed batter’s box. The graphic slightly exaggerates the movement, but it hints at a key plate mechanic: exit the catcher to the left.
At first glance, this may seem like a small detail, but it has real implications. On a ground ball with no runners, catchers often back up first base in foul territory. By exiting to their left, we avoid crossing their path, which reduces the chances of getting screened or causing obstruction. It’s a simple habit that consistently pays off.
Teaching this in the no-runner scenario lays the groundwork for understanding why umpires avoid moving through the right-handed batter’s box. In most situations where the catcher moves after the ball is hit, they’re going either up the first-base line or directly to the plate. Exiting to the left keeps us clear of both.
This habit also naturally leads us in the right direction for future rotations — such as situations where the plate umpire needs to move toward third base. It’s a small, subtle mechanic, but one that builds a strong foundation for more advanced movement and positioning. *
STAY SHARP ALL SEASON
Be prepared for the 2025 season! Your complete guide to the 2025 High School Baseball season includes the latest rules changes explained and simplified, the most up-to-date NFHS Points of Emphasis, Mechanics updates, umpiring tips and strategies, Caseplays with rulings, and test yourself
Quiz Questions with answers.
HIS PLATE IS F LL
By Dan Ronan
MLB umpire. Union president. Lawyer. Devoted husband and father. Welcome to the busy life of Dan Bellino.
Dan Bellino’s phone, email and text messages never seem to stop. His schedule and life are packed full, 24/7/365. He’s been a professional umpire for more than 20 years. He’s a crew chief, taking on the added responsibilities that come with that role. He’s been married to his wife, Katie, for 20 years, and the couple has four children, three boys and one girl, ranging in ages from 11 to 18.
“Katie is my partner in all of this, and I couldn’t do it without her,” Bellino said. “She’s been with me the entire time and she is the rock that holds the family together.”
Bellino, who resides outside Chicago, is a practicing lawyer, specializing in real estate law. This past year, after serving on the MLB Umpires Association (MLBUA) board of directors, he became the union’s president, succeeding Bill Miller. For many years, he and his partners owned a medical equipment business in southern Wisconsin, providing reduced-cost MRI services for people without health insurance.
Bellino’s life and career appear to be moving at a rocket-like pace — not only in professional baseball, but it seems like in every aspect of his life — since growing up in the northern Chicago suburb of Glenview, Ill., where he was a student-athlete at the prestigious Loyola Academy. The Jesuit-run college prep high school is well-known in the Chicago area for both academics and athletics. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Bellino was a three-sport athlete — a catcher in baseball, a wide receiver in football and a guard in basketball — before going to Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, Ill. He attempted to make the basketball team as a walkon, but it didn’t quite work out the way he planned. However, he found success by taking advantage of opportunities that came his way.
“I didn’t make the team, but the head coach, Brian Hammel, said to me, ‘I really like you as a person,’” Bellino explained. “He said I didn’t quite have the skills, but offered me a manager’s role, with a scholarship. I just wanted to make the team, but Coach Hammel said I was just a bit short on the skills to play at the D-I level.
“I loved being a manager and one of the jobs of the manager is taking care of the officials. I’d take care of their room, do whatever is necessary to make their lives easier. I started looking at things from the lens of an official. So, I started officiating high school basketball, in the IHSA (Illinois High School Association) my last two years
HIS PLATE IS F LL
in college. When I went to law school, my goal was to be a lawyer and referee Division I basketball.”
Do you see a trend here?
“Managers are unbelievably valuable. No one works harder than a manager,” said Hammel, now a hospital foundation executive in Los Angeles. “Dan was tremendous. After being around him for a while, you could see he had very good judgment. Dan had a pretty good pulse on the team.
“We’ve stayed in touch all these years and when he is out here, we get together and I’ve brought my family to meet him. He is a gem. I have nothing but a lot of admiration for Dan.”
Bellino also attended the prestigious University of Oxford for a semester, and he
obtained his MBA from the Brennan School of Business at Dominican University in suburban Chicago.
He also worked for a law firm, Morici, Longo & Associates, and was an aide to Federal Judge Charles P. Kocoras. His terminal law school research paper tackled the controversial topic of the 1999 MLB umpire union job action. Initially, Kocoras was hesitant about Bellino’s choice of a full-time profession.
“The judge asked me, ‘Why? You’re on a great path with the law,’” Bellino said.
Like his relationship with Hammel, another opportunity came up a few years later.
Halfway through his studies at the University of Chicago Law School, Bellino became friends with classmate and fellow Chicagoan Rudy
Minasian. The Minasian family has a long history in MLB. Perry is the general manager of the Los Angeles Angels. Calvin is the director of clubhouse operations for the Atlanta Braves. Zack was promoted to the general manager’s position with the San Francisco Giants in 2024.
Rudy is a Chicago-area lawyer specializing, like Bellino, in real estate law. It was during a conversation with the family patriarch Zack, then the clubhouse manager for the Texas Rangers, that the suggestion of attending umpire school came up.
“Rudy said to me, ‘Dan, if you like officiating, you should go to baseball umpire school,’” Bellino said. “I didn’t even know umpire school existed, and Rudy said MLB umpires have good benefits and a great salary. I was halfway through law school and I researched it, and I told my girlfriend, now my wife, Katie, and my parents and they said they’d support it, so long as I finished law school.
“Right after I finished, I went to the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School.”
Bellino had never umpired baseball and only had officiated 16-inch slow-pitch recreational softball before attending umpire school.
Still, he experienced immediate success. But there was one problem. Bellino’s law school graduation was coming up, right in the middle of the intensive, five-week umpire training program in Ormond Beach, Fla., and he had promised his family he would attend the ceremony. Bellino had a conversation with the legendary Wendelstedt, and the veteran NL umpire and crew chief encouraged him to finish what he started.
“I actually said to Harry, ‘I don’t want anyone to know that I am doing this because I don’t want people to think I’m not serious about umpiring.’ So, he kept it quiet. We didn’t tell
Dan Bellino is shown preparing to make a call on a tag play in a 2021 game between the Houston Astros and Oakland Athletics.
anyone, not the instructors — Larry Vanover and Paul Nauert — and the others,” Bellino said, still surprised he pulled it off. “Even missing a few days, I got a job. I wasn’t first in the class. Then the next year, Harry called and asked me to be on the staff and teach, and I said, ‘I’m all in.’
“Harry Wendelstedt has always been one of my biggest supporters. Teaching at the school was huge, because I thought about quitting and practicing law full time after my first season, and Harry’s call changed all that.”
Bellino started his professional umpiring career in the New York-Penn League and began climbing the ladder. During the 2006 minor league umpires strike, he spent the idle time studying for the Illinois bar exam, then went back to work in the Double-A Eastern League in mid-June after the three-month work stoppage ended with a new contract.
“I was locked in to take the exam. I was studying and wasn’t paying much attention to the strike and immediately after taking the exam and passing, I was like, ‘All right, when is this strike going to end so we can get back to baseball?’” he said. “Every year I set a goal. I had high expectations to move up every year. It was hard in the minor leagues. I had gotten married,
I had student loans and I was determined.”
Along the way up he also worked in the the Midwest League, the Florida State League and ultimately reached Triple-A in the Pacific Coast League (PCL). On June 25, 2008, his first MLB game was at Wrigley Field, just 14 miles from his old high school and less than a one-hour drive from his home. He worked third base when the Cubs played the Baltimore Orioles.
“Dan and I go back a long way,” said MLB umpire Phil Cuzzi, who now serves as Bellino’s No. 2 man on his crew. Cuzzi’s voice was full of admiration for his colleague.
“When guys come up from Triple-A, we always joke that they’re on scholarship. One of the things we do is that the veteran guys will take care of the younger umpires. When we go out to dinner, lunch, we
Dan Bellino is involved in several of ventures beside his MLB umpiring career. Above left is a screenshot of the Facebook page for his law practice. Bottom left is the MRI company in which he once had an ownership stake. Right, he's shown with his wife, Katie, on the day of his law school graduation. The Bellino family, from left: Grant, Anthony, Lucinda, Dan, Katie and Andrew.
always take care of the check. And there were two guys, in all the time I’ve been doing this, that quietly, at dinner one night, told the waiter, ‘I’ve got the check,’ and they snuck off and paid the bill. Dan was one of those guys. It was just a kind gesture on their part to show us that they appreciate us.”
It was almost a year later, June 9, 2009, that Bellino was back in the big leagues part time, working his first plate job on a crew with Cuzzi, Tom Hallion and crew chief Jerry Crawford, this time in Chicago at Guaranteed Rate Field as the White Sox hosted the Oakland Athletics.
“When I worked that game, Judge Kocaras was one of the people in attendance,” Bellino said.
It would take three years of going up and down between the PCL and MLB, along
HIS PLATE IS F LL
with trips to the Arizona Fall League and winter baseball, but on March 9, 2011, Bellino got the call to join the full-time MLB staff after working 144 games as a call-up.
“I’ll never forget that date,” he said, his voice full of emotion. “I was fortunate. I got up quick. I tell Triple-A umpires when they come up, ‘When you work games in the big leagues, it’s fantastic, but if you’re on the dance floor for several years, the supervisors start counting your failures instead of your successes. Strike when the iron is hot.’ It’s hard to work 500 games without messing something up. There have been some umpires who had more than 1,000 games before getting a full-time job.”
Those who have worked with Bellino and have gotten to know him say his path to a senior leadership role in the MLB umpiring staff, and now the MLBUA, almost seem preordained. Bellino insists he never had a plan in mind.
“I’ve tried to learn everything I can from some great crew chiefs: Joe West, Larry Vanover, Brian Gorman, Jerry Crawford, Ted Barrett, Jeff Kellogg and Tom Hallion. I’ve been lucky. They’ve included me in everything. If there’s a weather situation and they were going to see the groundskeeper or the GM, I went with. I’d go to breakfast with my crew chief, and I’d ask a lot of questions,” he explained.
“If a pool reporter would come in after a game, I would sit in. On the road, I’ve been the rental car guy, the hotel guy, the reservations guy. I have good relationships with the clubhouse attendants, because I did that in college with the referees. I was raised with the approach, if you want to do something, you need to understand all of the jobs that
Since making his MLB debut in 2008, Dan Bellino has worked two Wild Card Series, eight Division Series, two League Championship Series, and the 2021 World Series.
it takes to get it done.”
Recently retired MLB umpire and crew chief Vanover had Bellino on his crew for six years, many of them as his No. 2 umpire.
“Dan is a man of integrity. I taught him at Wendelstedt’s school, and he taught with me as an instructor,” Vanover said. “You won’t find a person of higher integrity than Dan. I’ve watched him over a number of years, and he has grown into a tremendous person and an umpire. I’d walk onto a field anywhere in the world with him, and all of those traits that he has developed are what you need to be successful in this profession.
“He’s just a tremendous person. He’s a very tenacious person in everything he does. He’s got a law degree; you have to have the drive to accomplish what’s he done. Now he’s a crew chief and president of the union. It all lines up; it all makes sense.”
Twelve years after being hired as a full-time umpire, Bellino was promoted to crew chief in 2023. Now, in his 14th year on the staff, Bellino is also putting together an impressive
postseason resume. He’s worked one All-Star Game, two Wild Card Series, eight Division Series, two League Championships Series, one World Series and a World Baseball Classic.
If he’s not at the ballpark, either preparing for a game or umpiring a game, Bellino can be found on the phone dealing with a union-related issue, as the union and MLB during the most recent offseason successfully negotiated a new five-year collective bargaining agreement that he said significantly raises the salary and benefits of current umpires and improves the retirement system for umpires. It also makes changes to the work rules to allow MLB to experiment and possibly implement the ABS strike zone challenge system in the future.
Bellino joined the union board as a member in 2013, eventually became an executive committee member, then eventually served as vice president before being elevated to the top role this past winter.
“It’s going to be good for the profession and it’s going to be really good for the next
generation, on things like turnover, and it’s going to make sure that when guys finish their careers, they’re not going to be weighing whether they have to umpire one more year just because of financial reasons,” Bellino said of the agreement, noting the senior MLB umpires will see their salaries increase by more than $150,000 a year, getting them close to the level of NBA referees.
The senior umpires will make up to $700,000 annually with bonus money, and all umpires will also get an increase in money that MLB pays them for the use of their images on social media and other outlets. Not only veteran umpires are getting a raise, but newly hired and mid-career umpires will also see a significant pay hike. The daily per diem was increased to $640 a day, with umpires paying the majority of their expenses from that: hotels, clubhouse dues and food. Umpires also always fly first class. Bellino believes the contract is an affirmation that MLB’s executives recognize how good the umpires are.
“The office always told us that they valued us, and this is really the first time where we made significant gains and it’s a contract to build on,” he said.
Bellino’s home life northwest of Chicago is very busy. Katie, his wife of 20 years this past February, is a schoolteacher, now working part time. Their oldest son, Anthony, 18, is a high school senior and a soccer player preparing for college this fall. Grant, 16, and Andrew, 14, both play baseball, and Lucinda, 11, is a competitive cheerleader. “I’ve been stretched too thin many, many times,” Bellino admitted. “Now, I don’t take union issues home. I’m good at managing the union and we have legal counsel, but my law practice has suffered the most, but I don’t want to practice law forever.”
Grant is considering
umpiring as a profession and is working travel league youth baseball, and Dan is encouraging him, but with the caveat he must finish college first.
“There will be another Bellino coming. He’s very good. He plays baseball, comes home, changes his clothes and gets his umpiring gear and he’s out there,” Dan said. “I go to his games, and I’ll hear fans and parents say this umpire is really good. But I’m just a dad, watching his son umpire and loving it. I evaluate him and help him. But with the fans, parents have no idea I’m a major league umpire. I never reveal it.”
Bellino often takes family members on the road with him whenever possible and with three MLB teams — the Cubs, White Sox and Milwaukee Brewers — all within a 90-minute drive of their suburban Chicago area home, he often has a companion with him in the car to and from the game.
Bellino is still practicing law, focusing on residential and commercial real estate, and the practice is thriving. “I was building a law practice in case baseball didn’t work out,” he explained. “Getting hired in MLB brought in a ton of business, so I brought in people to help me. I started to specialize in helping people in foreclosures, creating a niche,
Dan Bellino, left, and fellow MLB umpires Shane Livensparger, Phil Cuzzi and Mark Ripperger share a moment with a young patient during an UMPS CARE Charities hospital visit.
doing short sales, improving their credit, and I did that. It was very rewarding.
“I’ll probably go three more years, and I’ll keep my license active, but I’m not going to take on any more clients. I take on cases that I really believe in, and a lot of my work is pro bono, and I find it very rewarding. I don’t take cases for the money.”
Bellino believes in the long run his law degree and MBA are making a difference in the way he approaches the game and the success he’s experiencing.
“It did help. It lets them know I was educated, coachable and able to think on my feet, and I think it helps the most in situations, if a manager comes out to argue, a lot of times they’re not sure what they’re arguing about,” he said. “That’s where I can use my law degree the most. Baseball, MLB, likes it because they don’t have any lawyers on the umpiring staff. I’m the only one.
“I don’t regret the path I’ve chosen. Not at all. It’s a challenge. Professional umpiring is a challenge, but everything in life is.”
Dan Ronan is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist. He is a retired NCAA baseball umpire and small-college and high school basketball referee. *
KEEP IT ROUTINE
Familiarity Helps Prepare for Big Game
By Erin Peterson
How do you get ready for that big game? The short answer is you prepare for the big game the same way you prepare for every game. The longer answer is about ensuring no single game feels too big by maintaining consistency in your approach.
Prepare Early
For me, each game or trip starts with how I pack my gear bag. It’s a process that takes time to perfect. One thing you definitely don’t want before a game is to be digging through your bag looking for your indicator, lineup card or plate brush. Keep everything in the same place and stay organized. Your mental
space before the game should be focused on the game itself, not on where you put your pen or ChapStick.
Connect With the Crew
Communication with your partners is key, and it should start well in advance — at least several days before the game. If you’re traveling and coordinating logistics like arrival times, hotels or rental cars, it’s best to start communicating as soon as assignments are announced. A solid pregame meeting with your partner(s) is essential — whether it’s over lunch or in the locker room. Everyone needs to be on the same page for the crew to be successful on the field.
Do Your Homework
Make sure to gather information on the teams you’re umpiring. If you know other umpires who have officiated games for either team, ask them about any tendencies or patterns they’ve noticed. If stats are available, review them to see if there are players with a high number of hit-by-pitches or stolen bases. This information should help you prepare for potential situations, but don’t let it influence your calls. Don’t predetermine anything based on prior games. Just because an umpire from two weeks ago tells you a pitcher was illegal or the leadoff batter was out of the box, it doesn’t mean the same will happen today. Always umpire the game you see in front of you.
Before working a big game, umpires should prepare for it like any other game in order to stay within a routine and keep things familiar. Control as much as you possibly can before you ever take the field to help combat potential nerves and be ready to roll once the lights come on. Fred Barker, Fresno, Calif.
Peace of Mind
If you’re going to a new field or stadium for the first time, make sure you have clear directions and arrive with plenty of time to spare. This will help you feel settled and avoid being rushed. Walk the field so you’re comfortable with the ground rules, ensuring nothing catches you by surprise. Confirm if there is any streaming or TV for the game, or if there will be a red hat or a set time between innings. Discuss with your crew who will help monitor the timing for broadcasts.
Stay in Your Routine
Once you arrive, set up your area the way you always do. Double-check the timing sheet to know when to be on the field and how long it takes to get there from the dressing area. Get dressed in your usual routine. Keep in mind that each crew member may have their own process, so be respectful of that. If you like to play
music, check with the rest of the crew to make sure it’s OK with them. Stick to the timing that works best for you. If you prefer to be dressed 20 minutes before you go out on the field, do that. If you prefer five minutes, that’s fine too. Don’t feel pressured to follow anyone else’s routine — this is a personal process.
Mentally and Physically Prepare
Be sure to complete whatever physical and mental warmups you need to do before each game. This ensures both your body and mind are always ready. If you use visualization, do it before every game. Establish tools you can rely on in high-pressure moments by practicing them when things are calmer. Positive self-talk is a key part of my preparation, helping me walk onto every field with confidence and focus. Find what works for you and stick to it. By refining your process for every game, you’ll feel confident and prepared when it’s time for the big game, ensuring you’re always at your best.
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. *
Unscore the Run?
By Brad Tittrington
If you umpire long enough, you will eventually see a play that makes you scratch your head and think, “What just happened?” These types of plays don’t happen every game and they aren’t always black and white in the rulebook, which is why we need to make sure we know the latest interpretations, caseplay examples and potentially read between the lines.
One such play that garnered a lot of discussion happened in a college game this season. It is also a caseplay in the NFHS casebook, which means
it most likely occurred at least once at that level at some point and the rulesmakers decided to write about the correct adjudication.
Here is the scenario: With runners on first and third and one out, B4 tries to lay down a suicide squeeze. B4 squares and pops up the bunt toward the third baseman, who is charging in on the play. The runner from third, who was off on the pitch, continues toward the plate and slides across the plate. The third baseman dives to try to catch the bunt, but the ball goes into her glove and then pops out as she lands. The runner who crossed home plate thought the ball was
BY THE NUMBERS
68
Percent of respondents who like the recent rule change to allow communication devices to relay information from coaches to players.
63
Percent of respondents who think the recent rule changes that allow communication will actually speed up the game.
SOURCE:
QUICKTIP
There’s a saying among umpires, “Take care of your mask and it will take care of you.” Masks should always be carried with you when you are the plate umpire. Never lay your mask on the ground and never lay it over a fence pole. Always carry your mask in your hand or place it under your arm when receiving lineup changes. And whatever you do, never clip it to your belt or into the back of your pants.
“No matter what stadium you go into, it’s going to be someone who doesn’t like you. But I’ve been fortunate to be doing it for quite some time. So, I got a bit of a reputation for being pretty good. But trust me, there are some days where not everyone likes me.”
— NCAA umpire James Colzie III on what it is like being questioned as an umpire. Colzie, who umpires in the SEC, is also the head football coach at Florida A&M.
SOURCE: TALLAHASSEE DEMOCRAT
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. In the first inning, team A has a right-handed batter up to bat. The on-deck batter chooses to go to team B’s on-deck circle to warm up in order to not be on the batter’s open side.
a. Legal.
b. Not legal.
2. In the second inning, the DP (Adams) hits a single. The offensive coach puts the Flex (Baker) in to run for Adams. Which of the following is/ are true?
a. No substitution shall be charged to either player as the DP/ Flex occupy the same spot in the batting order.
b. A substitution shall be charged to Adams since she is being replaced in the batting order.
c. The offense still has 10 players in the lineup.
d. The offense has dropped to nine players.
3. During the course of the game, the Flex has entered the batting order for the starting DP twice to run the bases. Which of the following is/ are true?
a. The Flex must remain in the batting order since the starting DP is no longer eligible to re-enter the game.
b. Since the Flex and DP occupy the same spot in the batting order, the DP may re-enter the game.
c. An eligible substitute may be entered into the DP position and the team may return to 10 players.
d. The Flex may stay in the batting order, reducing the number of players in the lineup to nine.
4. Baker, who is a starter, is wearing No. 1 and is listed correctly in the handwritten lineup but is listed as No. 2 in the pre-printed roster on the bottom of the card. After Baker reaches base on a single, the defensive coach approaches the plate umpire about the discrepancy in numbers.
a. The handwritten lineup takes precedence over the pre-printed roster.
b. The plate umpire should correct the pre-printed roster.
c. The pre-printed lineup takes precedence over the handwritten lineup.
d. The defensive coach has the option to take the result of the play or have Baker ruled out due to an inaccurate lineup card.
caught and now returns toward third base. The third baseman picks up the ball and turns to throw to third base to “retire” the runner who is running back toward third base. The shortstop heads to cover third base, is unable to catch the ball and the runner arrives safely at third. At the end of the play, there are runners on first (the batterrunner), second (the runner who started on first) and third (the runner who started on third, scored and then returned to third).
So, what do we have? Besides a complete cluster, we actually have a run that should be counted and runners at first and second. By rule, once the runner on third crossed home (as shown in the PlayPic), she legally scored. There is no “appeal” on this play, so that runner scoring is not obligated to return to touch any base. Once that runner legally scored, she no longer has status. This means she can’t “unscore” the run. Even though she returned to third base, her run still counts and she should be removed from the field. By the same token, if she had been tagged while running back to third, she should not be ruled out either. Again, she has no status and cannot be put out.
The NFHS has two caseplays
which illustrate this point, both 2.49B and 9.1.1B. The other codes state a runner who has legally scored no longer has status (NCAA 12.17.3.1; USA Softball 1-Runner, 5-5A-1, 8-7P; USSSA 3-Runner, 4-2A). The one thing umpires need to understand in this situation is the runner who scored, while not able to be put out, can potentially be guilty of interference if, after touching home, she interferes with the defensive team’s ability to make a play on another runner or if the runner continues to run and draws a throw and the umpires judge this to be interference. If that throw doesn’t affect play (meaning there was no play on another runner or the throw didn’t allow other runners to advance), it most likely is not going to be judged as interference. Again, this type of play is not going to be a regular occurrence in your games. But it is a good example of something that can happen, and if you aren’t ready for it or a student of the rules, it can catch you off guard. 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. *
In OR Out?
In this photo, the home plate umpire must determine if this contact with the ball is legal or illegal. The answer depends on the code. This was taken during a high school state tournament game and the answer in that code would be this contact is legal (provided her left foot is not touching the plate). That same ruling would go for USA Softball and USSSA, where the batter is only out if contact is made while a foot is completely outside of the batter’s box or touching the plate (NFHS 7-4-8, USA Softball 7-6F and G; USSSA 7-9). Here, while difficult to see, it appears part of the batter’s left foot is still in contact with the batter’s box and is just next to the plate, but not in contact with it. Therefore, the contact in those three codes would be legal and the ball would remain live. If the batter was touching the plate or had a foot completely outside the box on contact, the ball would be dead and the batter would be out, regardless if the ball was fair or foul.
NCAA rules mandate a batter may not contact the ball with any part of the body touching home plate or the ground outside the lines of the batter’s box (11.2.5).
In this situation, the batter has part of her left foot outside the lines at the moment of contact. This results in a delayed dead ball and the coach of the defensive team shall choose either the result of the play or the standard effect for illegal contact, which is a strike on the batter and all baserunners must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. If the standard effect for illegal contact is chosen, and it is the third strike, the batter is declared out.
CASEPLAYS
Carry Into Dead-Ball Territory
Play: With R2 on second base and one out, the next pitch to B5 is ruled strike three. F2, thinking there are now three outs, runs off the field and into her dugout. She has the ball in her glove when she crossed into her dugout. At the time F2 crossed into dead-ball territory, R2 was standing on third base. Ruling: In all codes, the ball becomes dead when F2 crosses into dead-ball territory. Each runner is advanced one base from where they were when the fielder crossed into dead-ball territory. In this case, B5 becomes the second out, the ball is dead and R2 is awarded home (NFHS 8-4-3h Pen.; NCAA 9.4 Eff.; USA Softball 8-5J Eff.; USSSA 8-14D-5).
Catcher’s Box
Play: With R3 on third and a 3-0 count on the batter, F1 sets up to deliver a pitch. F2 moves far to her right and ends up outside the catcher’s box before F1 delivers the pitch. Ruling: In all codes, this is an illegal pitch and a delayed dead ball. The catcher must remain within the lines of the catcher’s box until the ball is released. The offensive coach has the option of taking the result of the play or taking the penalty for an illegal pitch, which is a ball awarded to the batter (NFHS 6-1-1 Pen., 6-3-1 Pen.; NCAA 6.6.2 and Eff., 10.8; USA Softball 6A-7A, 6A-11B, 7-5D; USSSA 6-2A Pen., 6-3).
Fitness of Grounds
Play: It has been raining all day and the umpires arrive to the field to find both coaches and the on-site administrator stating the field is in good enough condition to start the game. None of the umpires on the crew believe the field is in playable condition. Who has the ultimate authority in this situation? Ruling: In NFHS, the home coach shall decide whether the grounds and other conditions are suitable for starting the game (4-1-1). In NCAA, the coaches of both teams and/or the on-site administrator shall decide whether or not to play prior to the start of the game (5.3.1). In USA Softball, the plate umpire has sole responsibility for the fitness of the grounds prior to the game (5-2). In USSSA, the umpires are the sole judges of the fitness of the grounds (4-1).
R2 x 3, Who’s Got Two?
The mechanics for how umpires are supposed to handle baserunners and which umpires are responsible for which bases are spelled out in the umpire manuals. In a lot of situations, the manuals in all the major rule codes agree. There is one situation though that is handled differently between the codes and it is important for umpires who work multiple codes to understand the difference in order to make sure everything is covered properly and there are no gaps in coverage.
This specific scenario involves a runner on second base and a base hit to the outfield in the three-umpire system. The way it is covered depends on the code.
In NFHS and USA Softball, U3 stays at third base, watches R2 touch third and remains at third base and is only responsible for any calls at third base, either on R2 or on the batter-runner.
In this scenario, U1 comes inside
the diamond, pivots and picks up the batter-runner and is responsible for any calls on the batter-runner at first or second base (as shown in MechaniGram A).
The plate umpire is only responsible for any plays at the plate on either R2 or the batterrunner and has no additional base responsibilities and there is no rotation in this scenario.
In NCAA and USSSA mechanics, this situation is handled a little bit differently. On the hit, U1 has the ability to stay outside and work the rim or can come inside the diamond and pivot to pick up the batterrunner (as shown in MechaniGram B on the next page).
As R2 approaches third, U3 watches the runner touch and round the base. Once R2 commits to home, U3 now has options in these two codes. When R2 advances to home and the ball is still in the outfield, U3 should look at both U1 and the batter-runner. If both are heading to
second base, U3 should remain at third base and be prepared to take any calls on the batter-runner at third base.
However, if the batter-runner reverses direction back to first base, U3 should run hard to a primary position at second base and communicate to U1 of this movement to second base.
The reason for this is simple. If the batter-runner hesitates and starts to return to first base, it gives U3 time to advance to second base and it allows two umpires to cover the batter-runner, one on the front side and one on the backside. However, if the batter-runner rounds first and continues to second base immediately, this does not give U3 enough time to get in a position to make a call on the advancing batterrunner.
The plate umpire has all calls on R2 at the plate and then needs to be prepared to get to third base for a play there on the batter-runner if the batter-runner advances that far. Once U3 covers second base,
it becomes a normal three-umpire rotation, meaning U1 would cover home if the batter-runner advances that far.
The most important thing for umpires in this situation is to communicate and to read each other. The one thing we don’t want is two umpires at the same base, or even worse, to have no umpires covering the base.
In NCAA play, if there is a situation where a base is left uncovered by umpire rotation, umpires can initiate a video review to get help on the play.
However, if working a school that does not have video review or working at levels below college, the umpires on the field would have to come up with a call in that situation. Even if they get the call right, one team is going to be unhappy.
When working this situation, remember to communicate, do not deviate from what the manual dictates and hustle to your position to make sure every element of these plays is covered. *
GO BEHIND THE
SCENES
WITH
INSIDE CHAMPIONSHIP 2025
THE SEC FOOTBALL OFFICIATING CREW IN CHARGE of THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME IN ATLANTA.
When Ohio State linebacker Jack Sawyer completed his scoop-and-score after sacking Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers with a little more than two minutes remaining in the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 10, he did more than salt away a Buckeye berth in the College Football Playoff title game. He also triggered a nerve-wracking 24-hour countdown for two officiating crews from the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The anticipation that built for
those 20 onfield and replay officials between the evenings of Jan. 10 and 11 was akin to a kid awaiting midnight on Christmas. The notice they hoped to receive sometime that Saturday morning or afternoon had many of them watching a pot of water that finally boiled late that evening.
“For us to be one email away from getting that assignment had us on the edge of our seats all day that Saturday,” said field judge Phillip Davenport. “(Crew chief) Steve
CHAMPIONSHIP GAME 2025 CFP
BY MARCEL KERR
Marlowe and I were on the phone throughout the day. He talked me off the ledge a time or two, and I talked him off the ledge.”
“It was after 9 o’clock, and I was tired from the day, and I told Phillip, ‘I’m done. I’m going to bed,’” Marlowe said. “If it’s there when I wake up in the morning, then so be it. I barely had put my phone down when he texted me, ‘Check your email!’”
Marlowe’s inbox showed an email from John McDaid, the SEC
coordinator of football officials, with “2024 National Championship Game” in the subject line. After the immediate euphoria of reading the full message confirming his crew’s selection, he shifted into preparation mode, activating a contingency plan that lay dormant since those 10 men worked the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Ariz., on New Year’s Eve.
“We had a pretty good sense an SEC crew would work the CFP championship if no SEC team played in it,” Marlowe said, citing the
SEC officials’ 20-year drought from working the final game of the season.
“I made sure our crew evaluated our Fiesta Bowl so in case we got the assignment, that scoresheet was already in the can.”
Marlowe and Davenport are regular-season crewmates, and they are among the 10 SEC staffers McDaid assembled to officiate postseason games. Before that group officiated the Fiesta Bowl, they took the field for the first time together inside Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the SEC
INSIDE LOOK
2025 CFP CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Championship on Dec. 7. By the time they returned to the venue six weeks later for the CFP title tilt between Ohio State and Notre Dame, they felt as finely tuned as a unit that had been together for six games.
“We were very comfortable with each other after having those two highprofile games,” said line judge Jeremiah Harris. “Most of us had not worked on the same crew during the regular season. Steve did a terrific job of getting us on the same page the week of the conference championship game, and we carried that preparation to our next two games.”
With a Monday night game on the docket, the crew was in Atlanta by the preceding Friday. To help pass time across three days, they visited popular tourist sites such as the College Football Hall of Fame, The Battery (the ballpark district of the Atlanta Braves), Zoo Atlanta and Georgia Aquarium. They also took in the CFP’s fan experience inside the Georgia World Congress Center.
“The city was alive and the buzz was all around,” said back judge Keith Parham, who also worked the 2021 national championship when he was on the staff of the Atlantic Coast Conference. “Both sets of fans were walking around dressed in their team’s garb. Hearing people’s conversations in the hotel and the restaurants, everyone’s excited about the game … I feed off that energy.”
Marlowe tried to facilitate the usual routine to which SEC officials are accustomed for their autumn Saturday assignments. He believed the higher stakes of the game did
not deserve a deviation from the crew’s typical habits. He composed a list of quiz questions for the crew to review and compiled video clips to generate discussion about each team.
“When we met for pregame before the SEC championship, we didn’t have film from our work as a crew, so I had each official bring two or three plays from his previous game for us to talk about,” Marlowe said. “Going into the national championship game, we had two games’ worth of video as a crew we could look at. Rules and video are what we do week to week throughout
the season, so I wanted to maintain as much normalcy as possible.”
Normalcy may have been easy for Marlowe and company to maintain within their preparation cycle, but the increased visibility of college football’s grandest stage brought some novelties. From security dogs sniffing their bags before their arrival at the stadium to body cameras embedded into their uniforms, the game had ancillary components indicating the enormity of the event.
“This was the first time I wore a body camera,” center judge Jason McArthur said. “It was like a flak jacket
Above: The crew prepares by breaking down film.
Right: National Coordinator Steve Shaw (right) and crew chief Steve Marlowe at a pregame administrative meeting.
… sort of had an Ironman appearance with it being right in the middle of my chest. I don’t think it had any impact on what fouls I called, but it definitely was an added element that I had to prevent from becoming a distraction while I was working.”
McArthur and Parham wore two of the cameras ESPN furnished for the game. With shots from officials’ shirts, goalline pylons, first-down markers, overhead cameras, sideline lenses and handheld devices, replay official John Allmond had plenty of angles at his disposal when the need arose. Yet the surplus may not have been as advantageous as it may appear.
“For a regular-season game, we probably would have 12 to 15 cameras,” Allmond said. “For the title game, we had more than 70. I obviously cannot look at all 70 when I’m reviewing a play, but once I decide to stop the game, I have a better chance of getting the shot I need with more cameras available. The negative side to that is the amount of time it may take to get that main shot that determines how I’m going
The crew departs the hotel for MercedesBenz Stadium for the CFP National Championship on Jan. 20.
to rule on a play.”
From left: John Allmond, Keith Parham, Justin Larrew, Jeremiah Harris, Phillip Davenport, Steve Marlowe, Jason McArthur, Brent Sowell, Chad Green, David Smith and Bryan Greenwood pose before the game.
During the CFP quarterfinals and semifinals, a few plays captured national attention for reviews that did or did not occur. The rhetoric that filled the media airwaves and social media posts in the aftermaths of those games may have added another layer of scrutiny to Allmond’s potential involvement, but he and Bryan Greenwood, the replay communicator, paid it no mind.
“We talked about those plays and how we might have handled them,” Allmond said, “but if we go into a game thinking about a call or a no-call from a different game, we’re snakebitten from the get-go. Just like the officials on the field, we in the booth want to get all our calls right. We
get a ‘missed call’ for incorrect rulings, and we get a ‘missed stop’ if we fail to shut down the game when we should have.
“We have a few seconds after each play to decide whether or not to stop the game. We quickly have to evaluate if that play has something the officials on the field missed and if it is going to have a huge impact on the game. That’s the accountability we have in the regular season, and it was no different for the playoffs.”
Allmond and Greenwood are booth partners during the regular season, but they float among all the onfield crews in the SEC. The conference does not have 10-person crews inclusive of replay personnel; instead, replay tandems rotate among the onfield crews.
Allmond and Greenwood worked three games with Marlowe’s crew prior to the conference championship, so
INSIDE LOOK
2025 CFP CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
their comfort level at the CFP title game was the same as any other game.
“We knew we had to bring our A-game, but we try to bring that every week, no matter which teams are playing,” Greenwood said. “Every game has big implications in the SEC, so we are used to that pressure. We may have had a few extra butterflies and goosebumps for the national championship since more eyes would be watching, but we didn’t change anything in terms of how we prepared for the game based on public perceptions.”
“We’d been with Marlowe three times this season and with everyone else on the championship crew at least one game in the regular season. Since all 10 of us had the SEC title game and Fiesta Bowl together, John and I were very familiar with them once we got to the national championship game.”
When Greenwood arrived at the stadium on game day, no fans were inside. When fans started bustling through the concourses and streaming the aisles to get to their seats, Greenwood was preoccupied with his pregame ritual and did not take note of the groundswell surrounding him. It had no significant variance from his weekly SEC games that attract 90,000 or more spectators.
“When I got to the booth, I started checking the equipment to make sure everything was ready to go,” he said. “Then I talked with the replay technician and medical observer because they would be in the booth with us. I went to visit with the broadcast talent to make sure we get on the same page. I let them know if anything happens on the field they didn’t agree with, they could call me and get an explanation.
“I returned to the booth roughly 45 minutes before kickoff and started checking
the pagers with the crew on the field. I checked the O2O system. With a list of things that kept me busy, I didn’t pay much attention to the crowd or how the stadium was filling.”
On the field as teams ran through their warmup paces, side judge Justin Larrew took a couple moments to scan the sights and sounds of the Benz.
“I could feel the electricity,” he said. “Having two teams I had never worked before with two fan bases and marching bands I had never seen added another level to the excitement of being there. I wanted to hurry up and get to kickoff. Everything before that point was kind of a circus, but once the game started, it’s regular football.”
In his career as a white hat, Marlowe has conducted dozens of coin tosses, and
he autopilots through the process since he can do it by rote. Production for the CFP broadcast, however, added a couple of minor administrative responsibilities that had Marlowe walking a different path.
“When I leave the sideline heading for the center of the field,” he said, “I always am on the right side of the 50 yardline; they wanted me to walk on the left side. They gave me a script to recite before I tossed the coin.
I didn’t memorize it verbatim, but I hit all the pertinent points.”
Once the game started, the 60 minutes of competition unfolded without any substantial hitches. The officials administered nine penalties and stopped the game to review one play. After Ohio State wrapped up its win and the eight onfield officials trotted to the locker room, each of them had a moment to exhale a bit. The two
Above: The crew participates in a pregame administrative field walk.
Right: Referee Steve Marlowe (left) and umpire Brent Sowell engage in a locker room pregame discussion.
men leaving the replay booth detoured off their normal exit route from the press box level and onto the field. During that walk between the sidelines, Greenwood’s moment of reality came to him.
“John and I ended up going down through the field as the confetti was falling,” Greenwood said. “That’s when the moment hit me. I had blocked it all out before and during the game, but the magnitude set in fully as we walked off the field.”
The magnitude carried more sentiment for McArthur. As he headed out of the stadium, he reflected on the poignancy of what he accomplished the previous six hours. More than 10 years ago, a serious, sudden health challenge left him uncertain about his future in officiating, let alone working a national championship game.
“I had open-heart surgery in 2013,” McArthur said, “and missed that whole season. I was born with a faulty aortic valve, but I wasn’t showing any symptoms. My doctor discovered the problem during my annual football physical that year, and I missed the whole season. I didn’t think I would officiate ever again. Once I got the go-ahead to start exercising, I started working out to prepare for 2014. Eventually, I got my health back to where it needed to be for me to return to the field.
“Football saved my life. It led to my diagnosis and to my recovery. I made sure to take a moment after the game to appreciate how God watched out for me and gave me a little kiss in Atlanta.”
Marcel Kerr officiates high school and college football, basketball, volleyball and softball. He lives in Atlanta.
Top: Replay communicator Bryan Greenwood (left) and replay official John Allmond in the replay booth. Middle: Center judge Jason McArthur is equipped with body camera equipment. Bottom: Greenwood collected some confetti after the game to use in his display of a commemorative game ball.
KEEP COACHES IN CHECK
NFHS Rule Changes Target Coach, Player Misconduct
By John Van de Vaarst
Beginning next school year, head coaches may be warned, cautioned or ejected for misconduct committed by bench personnel in the team area. This new rule reinforces the concept of holding head coaches more responsible for the behavior in their team area. The increased responsibility of head coaches for team conduct highlights the 2025-26 high school rule changes.
That was one of six rule changes approved by the NFHS Soccer Rules Committee at its annual meeting, Feb. 10-12 in Indianapolis, and
subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Referee thanks Julie Cochran, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the soccer rules committee, for reviewing this article.
The changes are covered in perceived order of significance.
Misconduct 12-4-4 (REVISED)
Rule 12-4-4 was amended to support positive bench decorum and reinforce head coaches responsibility for the conduct of their team and bench personnel within the team area. The new language gives officials another tool to manage misconduct from the team bench area. A head
coach may be warned, cautioned or ejected in addition to any cautions or ejections issued to the sanctioned offender. A head coach who allows assistants to bark at a referee runs the risk of being cautioned for the assistants’ actions. When individuals in the team area use their voice in an unsporting way, the head coach can be held responsible.
“The 2025-26 rules changes emphasize accountability and sportsmanship, reinforcing the head coach’s responsibility for team conduct,” said Gibby Reynolds, chair of the NFHS Soccer Rules Committee and an administrator with the Oregon School Activities Association.
HESTON QUAN
Victor Cisneros, Riverside, Calif., interacts with a player wearing an arm band, indicating the player is a team captain. A new NFHS rule for the 2025-26 season stipulates that no coach, player, substitute or other team personnel, other than the team captain, can approach or speak to an official during the interval between periods, unless beckoned by an official.
“Head coaches have a high degree of responsibility for their team areas and bench behavior and are to be held accountable now that officials are allowed to warn, caution or eject head coaches for misconduct committed by bench personnel. This change promotes a culture of respect and positive behavior on the sidelines. These updates, along with the other approved changes, continue our commitment to improving the high school soccer experience for players, coaches and officials.”
Play 1: In a highly contested game, the assistant coach yells an obscenity at the referee. Ruling 1: The assistant coach is to be ejected for using abusive language and the head coach cautioned for the actions by the assistant coach, as shown in PlayPic A.
Intervals Between Periods
7-2-4 (NEW)
The committee also addressed behavior toward officials, aiming to reduce unnecessary confrontations. Rule 7-2-4 was added and stipulates that no coach, player, substitute or other team personnel other than the team captain can approach or speak to officials during the interval between periods, unless beckoned by the official. This action will now result in a yellow card to the offending individual.
Often during intervals between periods, the coach, players or other bench personnel approach the referee
team to discuss decisions made during the game or to complain about how the game is being managed. The interval is for coaches to discuss performance with the players, strategy changes and for the referee team to discuss any items they deem appropriate. In addition to rule 7-2-4, a new 12-5-1b indicates that “approaching an official during an interval period without permission” is to be cautioned. All other reasons for a caution are moved by one letter (“b” becomes “c,” etc.).
Play 2: At halftime, the officials meet near the scorer’s table to discuss the first half of play. The team captain approaches the officials and begins to dissent about decisions made during the first half, as shown in PlayPic B. Ruling 2: The officials have tools they can utilize. The captain may be warned if the capatin hasn’t had issues earlier in the game or may be cautioned for dissent. Although the captain may approach the officials, the captain cannot dissent or act in an improper manner.
Play 3: The state association has adopted a water break at the 20-minute mark each half for officials and teams to get water during games in warm weather. The head coach approaches the officiating crew during this time to complain about a call that happened earlier. Ruling 3: The officials can once again utilize tools in their toolbox for managing this situation. Depending on the level of dissent and if the head coach is respectful or not, the officials may warn or caution the head coach.
DID YOU KNOW?
A record 42 U.S. Soccer match officials were appointed to the 2025 FIFA International Panel. U.S. Soccer’s Referee Program, in conjunction with its referee committee and FIFA, named 15 referees, 20 assistant referees, 10 video match officials and three futsal referees to the panel. Those selected to the panel have the opportunity to represent the U.S. at the highest international levels.
“This is one of the USA’s strongest international referee contingents ever,” said Kari Seitz, U.S. Soccer’s vice president of refereeing. The officials on this year’s panel have worked assignments including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Paris Olympic Games and the FIFA Futsal World Cup. Newcomers to the panel include Guido Gonzales Jr., who officiated the 2024 MLS Cup Final. Katja Koroleva and Joe Dickerson, who have both been on the panel as referees in previous years (and are again in 2025), were also appointed to the panel as video match officials in 2025.
SOURCE: U.S. SOCCER
“We’re just referees living a normal life in a normal housing estate and we don’t have the protection like football players have. We’re so far apart.”
— Former FIFA referee Mark Clattenburg, discussing the differences between the lives of players and referees.
SOURCE: THE ATHLETIC
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. At halftime, the coach advises the referee that one of his or her players arrived late and was not on the roster. The coach wants to have this player participate in the second half.
a. This is permitted provided that the player has a uniform and number.
b. Since the player was not on the roster, it is not permitted.
c. The player is allowed to be added to the roster and play.
2. A1 is fairly challenged from behind by B2 inside team B’s penalty area. The challenge is not considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force.
a. Penalty kick.
b. Penalty kick and caution B2.
c. No foul; allow play to continue.
3. A1 takes a long throw-in to A2, who is standing near the touchline in the opponents’ half, far away from the thrower. After the ball is thrown, it bounces off the ground outside the field of play and then enters the field.
a. Rethrow since the ball did not enter the field of play.
b. Throw-in for the opponents at the point where the ball landed.
c. Throw-in for the opponents at the point of the previous throw-in.
4. Goalkeeper B1 prepares to take a goal kick and places the ball on the ground (but does not touch it afterward). The ball remains stationary inside the goal area, and a few seconds later, B2 picks it up with the hands to move it to the other side of the goal area.
a. Caution B2 for delay and restart with a goal kick.
b. Allow play to continue.
c. Caution B2 for delay and restart with an indirect free kick for team A.
Substitutions 3-3-2
(REVISED)
A change to rule 3-3-2 clarifies that if an official beckons a coach or appropriate health care provider for an injured player — including the goalkeeper, as shown in PlayPic C — that player must leave the field regardless of the reason the clock is stopped.
Another change to rule 3-3-2 allows teams to substitute players when a game is temporarily suspended. Games are often paused for water breaks in hot weather.
Teams will now be permitted to make substitutions during these stoppages.
Play 4: A1 is on the attack and goalkeeper B2 moves out from the goal to prevent A1 from scoring. A1 and B2 make contact and the ball continues forward into the goal. The referee signals to stop the clock and points to the center spot for a goal. B2 remains on the ground and the referee beckons the athletic trainer. The coach does not want to substitute because the clock was stopped for the goal. Ruling 4: Under the new rule, the substitution must be made since the athletic trainer was beckoned onto the field.
Uniforms 4-1-2 (REVISED)
Rule 4-1-2 was edited to clarify that the number required on the front of the uniform may be on the jersey and/or the shorts.
Play 5: Team B has 6-inch numbers on the back of their jerseys and a 4-inch number on the front of the shorts. There is no number on the front of the jersey. Ruling 5: Legal since the number can be on the front of the jersey or the shorts.
Definitions 18 (DELETED)
Finally, rule 18, which was comprised of definitions, has been eliminated from the rulebook. All relevant definitions were relocated to their corresponding rules, and redundant or outdated terms were removed. In addition, the index was expanded to better serve as a reference tool.
“Over the past few years, the rules committee has been committed to streamlining the rulebook for greater clarity and ease of use,” Cochran said. “By integrating rule 18’s terms and definitions directly into their corresponding rule sections, we continue this effort — eliminating redundancy, resolving potential conflicts and ensuring consistency.”
Editorial Change: Required Uniform 4-1-1c
Restrictions on what may appear on a player’s uniform have been loosened. A school’s nickname and/or mascot are now permitted on a uniform, in addition to the school’s name, logo and/or player’s name.
Editorial Change: Officials 5-1-2
No changes were made to the jurisdiction of officials, but article 1 was broken into bite-sized pieces to be more user friendly.
Editorial Change: Substitutions 3-3-7
An editorial change removes duplicate descriptions of when a substitute who comes in during a penalty kick situation is not allowed to take the penalty kick. 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.
2025-26 NFHS Points of Emphasis
Each year, the NFHS Soccer Rules Committee discusses items it feels are extremely important for officials. These items include problems from the previous season and ideas from committee members based on feedback from previous seasons. This year, the committee has determined four items that need to be incorporated into the rulebook as points of emphasis.
Education-Based
High School Athletics
High school athletics play a vital role in the overall growth of studentathletes, providing opportunities to develop physically, mentally and emotionally. Soccer serves as a platform for building essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, leadership and resilience. Coaching priorities focus on fundamental skills, strategic gameplay and decisionmaking while instilling respect for opponents, officials and teammates. As the game evolves, a strong understanding and application of the rules are essential to maintaining fair and safe competition, making rule education a key responsibility for players, coaches and officials.
A well-rounded high school soccer program should emphasize both athletic and academic development, reinforcing the importance of discipline, time management and perseverance. Education-based athletics prepare students not only for success in sports but also for their future endeavors by teaching valuable life lessons through competition. Schools, coaches and administrators must work together to ensure that high school soccer fosters growth, responsibility and leadership, creating a positive experience that supports student success on and off the field.
Courage, Character and Consistency
Courage, character and consistency are essential qualities for any soccer official. These qualities encourage the game to be managed fairly, effectively and with integrity.
• Courage. Officials must have the courage to make difficult decisions, calling fouls equally for both teams without fear of backlash from players, coaches or spectators. This courage extends to maintaining authority on the field, recognizing and firmly addressing any attempts to challenge their control or interfere with the game.
• Character. This is reflected in professionalism and the officials’ personality they incorporate into their management philosophy, fostering cooperation and mutual support within the officiating team. By maintaining composure and a focused attitude, officials uphold the integrity of the game, ensuring their decisions are based on the rules within the spirit of the game, rather than external pressures or emotions.
• Consistency. It is what ties the aforementioned attributes together, ensuring officials apply the rules uniformly and fairly throughout the game. Players and coaches expect predictability from officials in decision-making, which reinforces trust in the official’s authority. An official who applies the rules consistently, while managing interactions with confidence and conviction, fosters a controlled and respectful environment.
An official who successfully combines these attributes bolsters acceptance when managing dissent and conflicts, while emphasizing calmness, direct communication and resolution without unnecessary escalation. Ultimately, courage, character and consistency define an official’s ability to manage the game effectively, uphold fairness and maintain order, ensuring a positive experience for all participants.
Team Areas and Bench Decorum
Effective communication is essential for officials in maintaining control over the match, particularly when dealing with bench decorum and sportsmanship. An official’s role is to keep the game safe, fair and fun, which requires adapting
to the level of play and responding to game situations as they develop. High school soccer is an extension of the classroom, meaning officials must uphold the highest standards of professionalism, composure and integrity. By setting a respectful tone, referees can prevent escalation and unnecessary conflict. Recognizing and addressing dissent early is crucial — while emotional reactions can be ignored, public, provocative or persistent complaints must be dealt with decisively.
A
Coaches and bench personnel set the tone for their teams, and poor behavior can spread if not managed properly. In education-based athletics, adult leaders must be champions of character. Bench decorum must be actively monitored, as unchecked misconduct from the team area can quickly influence players and spectators. Head coaches have an obligation to manage their team’s behavior, as shown in PlayPic D. A firm but fair approach ensures that the game remains under control while demonstrating respect for all participants. Officials have tools to warn coaches and must take action to sanction misconduct when it occurs. Ultimately, head coaches are responsible for their team area and must be held accountable for any misconduct occurring within it.
Player Equipment (Shin Guards)
Ensuring student-athlete safety is a top priority, and proper equipment plays a key role in maintaining a safe and fair playing environment.
CASEPLAYS
Unusual Goal
Play: B1 plays a weak pass back to goalkeeper B2. A3 races in, B1 races out and gets there first and blasts the ball off A3’s arm which was in a natural position and therefore was not intentional handling. The ball bounces off A3’s arm, deflects off B1’s body and lands at A3’s feet, who shoots and scores.
Ruling: Goal. The goal was not scored directly from a hand ball. The initial hand ball was not intentional so there is no penalty (NFHS 10-1-1; NCAA 10.1.1; IFAB 10.1).
Not Listening
Play: A1 has the ball in the attacking half of the field. B2 runs up from behind and pushes A1 with force, causing A1 to lose control of the ball. The referee stops play and cautions B2 for the foul. Later in the game, B2 trips A3 and the referee warns B2 that he or she has already been cautioned and needs to play the ball. Later, goalkeeper A4 saves the ball. B2 steps in front of A4 to prevent A4 from releasing the ball. The referee verbally tells B2 to move and B2 does not. Ruling: B2 is to be cautioned for the delaying tactic and then receives a red card for the second caution. The referee warned B2 on two occasions to change behavior (NFHS 12-51f2; NCAA 12.4.7; IFAB 12.3).
SPA Trip
Play: A1 is moving forward on the attack. B2 is chasing A1 and attempts a slide tackle on A1. B2 gets the ball cleanly but A1 is able to retain the ball, continue forward and has an opportunity to score. After another step or two, A1 is tripped by B3. The referee sounds the whistle for the foul. Ruling: The foul was the correct call and a direct free kick should be awarded. Also, B3 should be cautioned for stopping a promising attack. Since B2 made a legal slide tackle, no action should be taken against B2 (NFHS 12-7-1; NCAA 12.4.10; IFAB 12.3).
NFHS rule 4 provides clear guidelines on required player equipment, including shin guards, which are essential for protecting athletes during competition. Given that high school players are still in their developmental stages, shin guards must be age and size appropriate, meeting NOCSAE safety standards. As shown in PlayPic F, each shin guard must display the NOCSAE seal, permanently marked on the front, indicating the approved height range for that model.
While coaches are responsible for ensuring their players are properly equipped before the game, officials take a proactive approach by observing warmups to identify any potential concerns, as shown in the MechaniGram below. Rather
than conducting formal equipment checks, referees use preventive officiating by maintaining awareness during pregame activities and addressing any noticeable issues. If a player’s shin guards appear inadequately sized, as in PlayPic E, officials should engage with the coach in a professional and approachable manner to confirm compliance.
By prioritizing communication and proactive observation, officials help reinforce safety standards while allowing players to focus on the game. A consistent and safetyconscious approach ensures that every student-athlete competes with the necessary protective equipment, contributing to a positive and wellregulated match experience.
VISIONINACTION
NASO Group Membership May Be for You 7 incentives to join together
If you’re an association leader interested in the many benefits membership in the National Association of Sports Officials could provide for your association members, then NASO group membership is an easy and convenient option to explore. Nearly half of NASO’s 32,000 members join through their local officials associations.
Group membership is one of NASO’s most successful programs. Members receive unparalleled education, cutting edge resources, and the latest information every official needs. Other group membership advantages include:
1. The Best Deal for Your Dollar – At the end of the day, everyone wants to get a deal, and group membership provides hard-dollar savings. Members save $35 on their individual NASO dues. That extra money can go toward uniforms, gas, or other officiating expenses.
2. Premier Insurance – NASO invented liability insurance for sports officials, and we provide the most comprehensive officials insurance package in the industry. There is no better coverage for officials than NASO’s with $6 million in general liability, $15,500 in assault protection, and $100,000 in game call and assigners’ coverage. Each member of your association is covered no matter how many sports or levels they work.
3. Association Resources Found Nowhere Else – Group members automatically get free access to NASO’s Association Advantage program which provides tools and
resources to professionally run a local officials association. You’ll get instant access to the world’s largest and most comprehensive database of officials association information, as well as digital newsletters and exclusive discounts at Cliff Keen Officiating for all of your members.
4. Comprehensive Coverage – Rest assured that all year long, no matter what level or sport your officials work, they are fully covered and fully protected.
5. No Hassle – Members will automatically renew with the group –no need to be bothered with renewal emails or mailings.
6. Enrollment is Quick and Simple –Enrollment is easy and quick. A list of your members and a short one-page enrollment form are all that is required.
7. Preeminent Customer Service –NASO prides itself on exceptional customer service. The NASO customer service team will happily answer your questions or concerns.
Hundreds of officiating groups have already taken advantage of this program. Groups like the NBA, and NFL officiating staffs have been part of the program, as are college staffs such as the Big Ten and SEC Football Referees Associations.
Get more information or sign up by calling 1-800-733-6100 or email kkoester@naso.org.
ATTENTION REFEREE MAGAZINE SUBSCRIBERS
It’s time to join the rest of us in the National Association of Sports O cials. Not only will you continue to receive the world’s #1 o ciating publication, you’ll enjoy all of the additional benefits NASO members enjoy.
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KNOW YOUR ROLE
Five Ways to Enhance the Officiating Experience
By Michael Flowers
In most sports, the role of the referee or official is often reduced to one simple task — blowing the whistle to make calls. Volleyball is no different in this regard, where the official is often seen as someone who just stands on the sidelines or at the net, raising a hand when a mistake is made.
However, the reality is referees play a far more complex and crucial role in ensuring the game runs smoothly, fairly and safely. The referee is not only a rule enforcer, but also a key figure in setting the pace and tone of the match,
supporting player development and preserving the integrity of the sport. Having officiated countless matches, I can confidently say the work we do goes far beyond just calling faults — it’s an essential part of the game that keeps everything in balance.
Set the Tone
From the moment the match begins, the referee is responsible for setting the tone. The referee’s presence and demeanor directly influence how the game unfolds. The first whistle is not just a signal to start playing, it’s a signal to players, coaches and fans about the expectations of the match. A
calm, composed referee helps set an atmosphere of professionalism, while an overly strict or too lenient one can alter the mood of the game.
In my career as an official, I’ve learned just how important it is to establish this early on. I’ve seen matches take a turn because a referee was too hesitant or too aggressive with calls. In my early years, I made sure to be firm in my decisions but also quick to communicate with players and coaches to establish respect for the game. When players sense an official is consistent and fair, they can focus on the game and leave the distractions behind.
Setting the tone for the match is one of the key elements with which all referees are tasked. Winnie Wong, Cypress, Calif., takes a few moments prematch to talk with the line judges to set expectations and make sure everyone is on the same page.
Ensure Fair Play
One of the most critical roles a referee has is ensuring the rules of the game are followed. In a fastpaced sport like volleyball, it’s easy for players to slip into habits that stretch or outright break the rules. Whether it’s a foot fault during a serve, net violation or incorrect rotation, the referee is there to maintain the integrity of the game by making sure both teams are playing on equal ground.
I remember one particularly intense match early in my officiating career where a controversial net violation call in the final points of the match came down to me. It was a call that could have gone either way, and the pressure was immense. In that moment, I knew the importance of making the right call, not just for the sake of fairness but to show the players the rules apply to everyone. In every match, it’s vital to understand the weight of every decision — because those calls are more than just technicalities; they shape the flow and integrity of the game.
Think Safety First
Safety is paramount in any sport, and volleyball is no exception. The fast pace, combined with high jumps and quick reflexes, can sometimes lead to dangerous situations if not properly regulated. Referees are the first line of defense in ensuring player safety. From certifying the net is at the correct height to making calls on dangerous plays — such as high or reckless hits — referees play a pivotal role in maintaining a safe environment.
I’ve had moments when I’ve had to call a stoppage due to a risky play or an unsafe collision between players. Referees develop a gut feeling over time that tells us when something just doesn’t seem right. I’ve had to make the call to stop a match, not because of a technical fault but because of concern for a player’s safety. It’s never an easy decision, but in those moments, it’s a reminder of why officiating is about more than the rules — it’s about protecting the players.
Support the Development of Players
Volleyball officials are not just rule enforcers, they can also be instrumental in player development. While their calls may seem purely transactional (calling faults and enforcing rules), they often provide valuable feedback that helps players grow in their skill sets.
Having officiated everything from youth matches to high-level tournaments, I’ve seen firsthand how players develop over time. Often, a quick call on a double contact or a net violation is just the nudge players need to understand what they’re doing wrong and improve. I can recall moments when a player’s technique improved almost immediately after a call. I’ve even had conversations with players after a match where they thanked me for calling something they hadn’t even noticed they were doing wrong. Those moments remind me why officiating is such a rewarding part of the game — it’s about helping the sport evolve by guiding players toward better techniques and skills.
The Importance of Neutrality and Professionalism
Perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of being an official is maintaining neutrality and professionalism, regardless of the emotional highs and lows that naturally come with competition. Referees are constantly bombarded with noise from players, coaches and fans, all of whom have their own perspectives on what should or shouldn’t be called. Amid this, an official must remain calm, composed and objective.
I’ve faced plenty of emotionally charged situations, and in those moments, I rely on my training and experience to stay neutral. There have been times when I’ve had to manage a coach’s frustration or calm down a heated player, but I’ve learned that staying composed is the only way to maintain respect for the game. It’s important to set the standard for behavior on the court. Staying professional and consistent helps not only manage the match but
SURVEY SAYS …
Which of the recent rule changes interests you most?
Double contact (second hit)
THEY SAID IT
“I think part of what makes us unique is our neutrality. People are so polarized about everything these days. I have friends who simply can’t believe when I tell them what I do — I’m the coordinator of these conferences — and they’ll go, ‘Really, who’s your favorite Big Ten team?’ I don’t have a favorite Big Ten team. I don’t have a favorite Big Ten coach. I don’t have a favorite anything. I have a job to do and it’s to stay neutral and do my best to ensure safety and fairness. I think our public find that hard to believe. And that’s why you see all the ‘yah yah yah’ stuff going on on social media right now about officials that they can’t believe for a minute are neutral and therefore they’re cheating. And I just think what makes us unique is we have a strong sense of neutrality.”
— Big Ten Coordinator of Volleyball Officials Marcia Alterman on what makes officials unique
SOURCE: FROM A TO ZEBRA PODCAST FEB. 18.
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. Which of the following is not an element of an illegal screen?
a. A player on the serving team is jumping and waving his or her arms as the ball is served.
b. Two back-row players standing shoulder to shoulder directly in front of the server.
c. A libero hits a high, arching serve over three front-row teammates standing shoulder to shoulder.
d. A low, hard serve that goes directly over three front-row players who are standing shoulder to shoulder with their arms raised.
2. Which of the following fits the definition of a ball crossing the net?
a. The ball is partially over the net, between the antennas and is contacted by an opponent.
b. The ball is hit directly into the net.
c. On a team’s second contact, the ball is passed near the plane of the net prior to a completed attack by a front-row player.
3. If a player is injured during the set, a referee may interrupt play and call a referee’s timeout. How much time does the head coach have to determine if the injured or ill player can continue?
a. 15 seconds.
b. 30 seconds.
c. 45 seconds.
d. 60 seconds.
e. A reasonable amount of time.
4. If a team’s libero is disqualified for conduct while playing, which option(s) are available to the team to designate a new libero?
a. The second libero that is listed on the team’s lineup sheet may replace the disqualified libero.
b. A coach may re-designate a new libero if only one libero is listed on the lineup sheet.
c. The team continues to play with no libero if only one libero is listed on the lineup sheet and the last player the libero replaced enters the set.
d. a and b.
e. a and c.
f. All of the above.
also teaches everyone that respect for the game should come before everything else.
Conclusion
We do much more than simply blow a whistle when something goes wrong. We are the backbone of every match, guiding the flow of the game, ensuring fairness, maintaining safety, supporting player development and upholding the integrity of the sport. The next time you raise a hand to call a fault, take a moment to
appreciate all the work that goes into that single action.
The work we do is crucial to the success of the game. Whether it’s calling a net violation or stepping in to protect a player, we play a vital role in the sport. Understand your role in helping protect the integrity of the game.
Michael Flowers, Elgin, Ill., is a high school and USAV certified referee. He worked the Illinois High School Association Girls’ State Finals in 2021. *
NFHS Adopts Four POEs
TheNFHS issued four points of emphasis (POE) for the 2025-26 season: one dealing with ballhandling guidelines — to assist with the new rule changes this year — and three dealing with administrative duties. Here is a breakdown of each.
Ballhandling
The inconsistency in judgment of contacts from one official to another and from one player to another causes anxiety for all parties. As the sport has evolved, the rules have adapted to allow multiple contacts on the ball with the caveat the first referee should only judge the length of time on a body part, whistling a catch/throw or illegal contact, along with the number of contacts made on the same attempt by one player.
With the 2025 rules changes, officials no longer adjudicate the multiple contact fault on a second contact when the ball is played to a teammate. What this means for high school volleyball is:
• More play, less whistles.
• Less controversy between coaches (players) and referees.
• A team whose second contact to a teammate is a “double” is allowed one more contact to play the ball over the net.
• Less concern about the consistency of officials between sets/ matches and from player to player (setter or non-setter).
• The first referee still needs to
be diligent about judging multiple contacts if the ball is next contacted by an opponent. This would be ruled a double hit, with a slightly delayed whistle.
• The first referee must be prepared to whistle a double contact if the second team contact completely crosses the plane of the net. Again, a double hit with a slightly delayed whistle.
• The first referee must continue to call any third contact that is “doubled.”
• The first referee will continue to allow the first ball double that travels over the net as that part of the rule has not changed.
Lineup Card
The second referee’s lineup card is an optional tool to record each team’s lineup. It is the choice of the second referee to verify each team’s starting lineup prior to each set by using the coaches’ submitted lineup sheets or the second referee’s lineup card.
Some second referees use the lineup card to assist with rotations/ positional faults, substitutions/ libero replacements, timeouts and to quickly check the next server. It is recommended for newer officials who are less familiar with the game to use the lineup card as a tool to learn how to track rotations. Veteran officials or those who are more familiar with identifying players and rotations through memorization, opposites or
The ball, from this angle, appears to be in the plane of the net, meaning either player can legally attempt to play it.
De Plane! De Plane!
T2
3
However, the ball may actually be completely on yellow’s side of the net, meaning black No. 6 could potentially be guilty of reaching over if she touches the ball.
hese types of plays happen quite often in volleyball, especially at the higher levels. For referee Ami Filimaua, Bothell, Wash., being able to understand all of the rules involved on this play, making sure the eyes truly see all elements of this play and allowing the brain to develop the whole picture, is imperative. First, we must understand exactly what is happening in this moment.
So, what must our referee be concerned about on this play? Since No. 10 is a back-row player, her contact with the ball must not end up as a completed attack. If it does, she is guilty of a back-row attack. If No. 6 touches the ball, and it is completely on yellow’s side of the net and not in the plane, she would be guilty of illegally reaching over and interfering. If the ball is in the plane and both touch it, No. 10 would still be guilty of a back-row attack. If the ball goes off No. 10’s hands and then hits No. 6’s hands, the first referee must determine if the blocking action is legal. In this situation, it isn’t the third team contact and there does not appear to be any other players in yellow near the net to make a play on the ball. So all that needs to be considered is if No. 10 hits the ball in such a manner that
Based on yellow No. 10’s actions, we can assume she is a back-row setter attempting to one-hand set an over-passed ball near the net on her team’s second contact.
1
the ball would clearly cross the net. The final thing to focus on is making sure No. 10’s contact with the ball is legal and doesn’t constitute prolonged contact.
That is a lot to concentrate on and figure out, and it happens in the blink of an eye. It is often why you see patient whistles on these types of plays as referees must take the time to figure out exactly what happened and allow their brains to digest what their eyes see. As a first referee, do not be in a hurry to make a call on this play or anticipate something that does not happen. Remember, the contact does not become illegal until the attack-hit is complete. Slow, patient whistles will allow you to nail these difficult calls.
VOLLEYBALL
CASEPLAYS
Scoring Points
Play: Team A is playing the match with five players after one player was injured after the match began. Team A has just been awarded a point and the ball for the next serve. However, there is a vacant position that rotates to the right-back position. The first referee whistles, signals illegal alignment and immediately awards a loss of rally/point to team B. Ruling: Correct procedure for NFHS. There is no signal for the vacant position other than when the team with five players receives the ball to serve. After a pause, the first referee whistles, signals illegal alignment awarding loss of rally/point to team B and immediately returns the ball to team B. It is recorded on the scoresheet as a regular loss of rally/point (NFHS 1-3-3). Incorrect procedure for NCAA and USAV. A team that does not have six legal players who can play in the set is declared an incomplete team for the set/match. If there are additional sets to be played to determine the winner of the match, a waiting time of up to 10 minutes is allowed for the team to have sufficient players in NCAA play (NCAA 8.5.2.2; USAV 6.4.3).
Antenna Fault
Play: During play, A1 attacks a ball that is driven into the net and hits the antenna below the net tape, then rebounds to A2 who bumps the ball over the net. The line judge waves the flag straight above the head to get the first referee’s attention and points to the antenna with the other hand to signal the ball is out of bounds. The first referee blows the whistle and awards a loss of rally/point to team B. Ruling: Correct in all codes. A ball is out of bounds and becomes dead when it touches the net antennas within the net (NFHS 2-3c; NCAA 16.2.2.4; USAV 8.4.3).
Legal Number?
Play: During warmups, the first referee notices a player wearing a jersey with double zero as the number. Ruling: NFHS and NCAA rules permit a player to wear zero, but not double zero (NFHS 4-24b; NCAA 7.1.2.6). USAV requires uniforms to be numbered one to 99, inclusive, so zero and double zero would both be illegal (USAV 4.3.3).
patterns, may choose not to use the lineup card.
Some things referees should be aware of:
• Lineups still must be checked at the beginning of each set by the second referee and the scorer.
• If a second referee chooses to use a lineup card, the starters must be noted, and it is the official’s choice to record any additional information.
• When a substitute is requested, the second referee recognizes a substitute — one at a time — by whistling two short blasts, signaling substitution and showing the authorization to enter signal.
• If using a lineup card, the second referee records the substitution and turns slightly at an angle to ensure that the scorer has recorded the substitution as well.
• If the lineup card is not being used, the second referee simply authorizes the entry and turns slightly at an angle and ensures that the scorer has recorded the substitution.
• Scorers have their way of acknowledging that the entry was made into the scorebook. This should be discussed prematch with the crew.
• Immediately following the acknowledgment from the scorer, the second referee turns, takes a position on the receiving team’s side of the court and signals the ready to play signal to the first referee.
• If each team has a substitute(s), the second referee should hold a hand up to indicate to that substitute to wait until the second referee has completed the opposing team’s request and entry.
Regardless of the method, communication with the scorers is crucial to ensure the players are in correct service order.
R1 Assigning LJs
For those states who have selected to remain on the same side of the court throughout the match, the default is for line judges to switch sides of the court between sets to allow for equitable adjudication of the lines. There may be a situation in which the first referee requires line judges to remain on the same side throughout the match. Rule 5-4-1g
provides the first referee the authority to do so to create the best match administration.
First referees may make line judge position assignments based on experience of line judges, level and type of play by one or both teams and observed performance. The authority of the first referee should not be used to prejudge line judges or create an unfair environment for either team.
Any divergence from the default line judge positioning should be communicated with both coaches.
Uniforms — Contrasting Colors
The rules not only require the libero jersey to clearly contrast from the team jersey, but also the body of the uniform number must clearly contrast from the uniform top (as shown in the PlayPic). These rules are in place to assist officials in easily identifying the libero as well as player numbers. When the ball and players are on the move, officials must clearly see the libero’s positioning when playing the ball as well as player numbers when watching for net, line and attack faults.
There are infinite color shades and combinations that schools around the country use that make it very difficult to create rules defining which colors contrast with each other. It is important to emphasize the word “clearly.” The colors should be obviously contrasting from one another in all types of gym lighting when viewing from the floor and the top of the bleachers. *
The official NFHS Volleyball Officials Manual produced jointly by the editors of both Referee and 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 volleyball officials. YOU’VE NEVER SEEN A
PROFILES
Wagner Put His Money Where His Mouth Is
By Leah Berard
Bart Wagner’s officiating career probably started a bit differently than most in the avocation. Wagner has played volleyball at several levels over the years (and still plays weekly) and coached volleyball from the youth to college levels. He saw his journey to the “dark side” begin when he received a “participation
letter” from the athletic director at the school where his wife, Amy, coaches. Wagner was complaining about officiating from the sidelines, while Amy, an All-American opposite hitter for the Wisconsin Badgers in 1997, was coaching a high school match.
That was seven years ago. The letter was effective in getting Wagner to change his behavior. But it also made him decide to take up officiating immediately after he first apologized to the officials.
“I put my money where my mouth was, and I jumped right into my USA Volleyball (USAV) training, feet first, without any delay,” Wagner said. “If we think we know the game better, in a manner of speaking, then we need to back it up.”
His is a family of volleyball enthusiasts, with a wife who is always in a coaching role (currently with the Milwaukee Sting Volleyball Club for the past 10 years) and two daughters, Sydney and Lily, who both played club and high school volleyball. Lily is currently a sophomore on the Northwestern volleyball team. Officiating has allowed Wagner to carve out his own role on game day that is separate from their focus, and as a bonus it has helped offset lodging and travel costs.
Although coaching his daughters has been a highlight for Wagner, who got into coaching because Amy’s team needed assistant coaches, the most rewarding officiating moments have been the matches he’s gotten to work with his mentors and officials who officiated him when he played in college. “I worked my first match with Jim Arts (chair of the Wisconsin Board of Volleyball Officials) several weeks ago, which is pretty cool considering he’s the one who sent me that letter seven years ago,” Wagner said. “Growing with like-minded individuals who are always looking to get better at what they do has been amazing.”
Wagner has officiated various levels as he’s continuing to gain more experience, which includes USAV and Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) juniors, and NCAA men’s and women’s Division III. “There are more levels of certification that I would like to add as part of that professional development, which will allow me higher-level assignments and opportunities,” Wagner said.
Outside of the volleyball court, Wagner works in landscape design, sales and project management for American Landscape. He also plays drums professionally with an original band and as a jobbing (freelance) musician in the Milwaukee area. Leah Berard, Bisbee, Ariz., officiated international rugby and now officiates college football. *
Golden Years
Jerry Becker Eagle Grove, Iowa
Jerry Becker, 88, has been a teacher for 65 years. He teaches college-level history courses at Eagle Grove (Iowa) High School and has no intention of stopping anytime soon.
Perhaps even more impressive, though, is that Becker is still officiating basketball games after 67 years. He works middle school and high school basketball games and has no problem keeping up with the players. Becker is the oldest active official in any high school sport in the state, according to the Iowa High School Athletic Association.
“I would go crazy if I had to just sit in the chair and watch reruns on television all day,” Becker said. “My goal right now is to enjoy myself. I am accomplishing that. I enjoy teaching. I enjoy working with the kids.”
SOURCE: KCCI-TV (DES MOINES, IOWA)
From Captain to Referee
Sydney Harris Pueblo, Colo.
A former college hockey standout is trying to skate into the NHL — as a referee. Sydney Harris, who was a captain of the Elmira (N.Y.) College women’s hockey team as a player, picked up officiating after her playing career ended. She made history as the first woman to referee an East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) game when she worked a Dec. 6 match between the Utah Grizzlies and Kansas City Mavericks. Harris also officiates in the American Hockey League and the Professional Women’s Hockey League.
“I try not to get too wrapped up in where I’m going; I try to just be where I’m at,” Harris said of her journey as a hockey official.
SOURCE: ECHL, ELMIRA COLLEGE ATHLETICS
Do you know a person or group who should be profiled? Send info to us at profiles@referee.com
Bart Wagner (left), Germantown, Wis., poses with his daughters, Lily (center) and Sydney (bottom right), and wife, Amy.
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OFFICIALS’ ACTIONS (OR LACK OF THEM ) CREATE NO END OF PROBLEMS FOR THEIR STATE ASSOCIATIONS.
Think back to the start of your officiating career, the pride you felt when you were notified you had passed the state rules test. Or the way your heart raced when you first pulled on your striped shirt with your state association’s logo.
New officials are, virtually without exception, eager to cooperate with their state governing body in any way possible. It’s a way of confirming the neophyte is now part of the group.
Attend mandatory rules meetings? No problem. Receive concussion protocol training? I’m fine with that. Work a scrimmage for little or no pay? It helps me gain experience.
But somewhere along the way, our mindset changes. As our career continues and we’re balancing our officiating ambitions with job, family and other responsibilities, certain tasks we once addressed with a smile and acceptance become a chore. Rules meetings mean another night out, and we don’t agree with the state office’s interpretation of the new rule; we’d rather do it the way we always have. Attend a clinic? I like having the summer off.
Invariably, perhaps inevitably, some requirements and responsibilities are put off or put aside. And that can lead to additional headaches at the state level.
BY RICK WOELFEL
If officials don’t take care of certain details, it can create a ripple effect and a host of problems. It’s not uncommon for state association administrators to find themselves dealing with officials who aren’t available to work because they haven’t fulfilled their state’s requirements, such as taking required tests, paying dues, etc.
That’s a source of concern for Mike Book, who oversees officials for the Colorado High School Activities Association.
“I think the biggest thing for me is what I call the administrative stuff,” he said. “Paying your dues on time and taking the tests and doing all that administrative stuff by due dates so (we) are able to do what we need to do: supply officials to kids.
“That gets a little frustrating at times, especially when it comes to playoffs when you’re expecting a certain number of officials and you don’t have those officials because they didn’t get their administrative stuff done. That’s very frustrating.
“It’s a big puzzle to put together to select officials for state tournaments. That puzzle has to have all the pieces.
“We’re always asked, ‘Why
pAiN IN THE aSsOCIATION
don’t we have the best officials on the best games?’ Well, there are a lot of scenarios why an official isn’t available and (administrative issues) is usually one of the biggest.”
David Baylor, executive director of the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association (DIAA), has had issues with officials who fail to complete their annual open book rules test and their concussion protocol training. Both are required for officials to maintain their certification. Baylor notes there have been instances of officials working games after their certification has lapsed.
Tony Maselli, chief operating officer for the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association, speaks to the importance of officials taking care of these so-called little things.
“If you can’t get that simple stuff done, that’s concerning to us,” he said. “So I’m just taking the feedback I get from my assigners — not registering, not paying dues, not getting your concussion course done on time. It’s a domino effect.
“The assigner calls and complains because he doesn’t have enough officials, yet there are 10 of them sitting in his officiating chapter who haven’t completed their responsibilities yet.”
Many officials work sports with multiple rules codes. It’s essential to stay up to date
on rule changes and apply the appropriate rulebook to the game they’re working that particular day.
But Maselli has encountered occasions where officials are lax in that regard. “We have a lot of officials that kind of make up the rules on their own,” he said, “which causes issues during the game. They may call a foul that doesn’t exist anymore, or they maybe don’t do something that was addressed in a rules interpretation meeting because they didn’t go to that meeting.
“That’s the one that really drives us crazy because of course the next day we’ll get video evidence the official made a bad call. We don’t take (accept) videos. The call was the call and we stand by the officials. (But) that makes it very tough when you’re calling penalties and maybe there was a rule change. It’s just a matter of being professional and being updated on all the changes.”
Beau Rugg, director of officiating and sports management for the Ohio High School Athletic Association, notes many officials in his state work both high school and college games and need to be adept at making the transition from one to the other.
“Know the environment you’re in and officiate to that environment,” he said.
that by rule call for a flag, a technical foul or a card?
Maselli finds circumstances like this perplexing.
“We have so many coaches that are out of control,” he said. “So, when we have a fight at a game or (ejections) we don’t blame the officials, but they do have the power to sit those coaches down or throw them out of the game.
“(When we have) officials who take control of the game, don’t take any B.S., we have a successfully officiated contest.”
Like many of his peers, Baylor has concerns about the age of the officiating population. He notes that issue impacts others.
Officials are charged with enforcing the rules dealing with unsportsmanlike behavior. Yet some officials are reluctant to enforce them. How many of us have passed on situations
The ongoing shortage of personnel leads to some officials staying on the field perhaps longer than they should. But if they step away, the DIAA won’t have enough officials to cover its games.
“The one concern right now is the aging population of officials,” Baylor says. “How fit they are to keep up with the game involving young people when you get to be my age (64)?
“It’s ‘Is that official out of position because they can’t keep up with the game? How could he make that call from that distance away?’ Those are valid questions at times. I know there is no way I could run up and down that field today like I did 20 years
ago (when I was an assistant college football coach).
“Here’s the thing. We’re at a conflict with Father Time and not having enough officials. A lot of those guys continue on because they want to see the kids have the opportunity to play and I applaud those men and women for doing that. Because I know some of them, when they go home they’re soaking in a tub, they have heating pads on, they’re icing themselves because of the physical demands.
“They’ve told me themselves, they don’t want to see the kids suffer for not having officials, so they continue to do it.”
Even at the high school level, officials are always under scrutiny. Grant Gower notes officials must always display professional comportment, on and away from the field or court. The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association’s director of officials, he was a veteran of three decades on the basketball court before assuming his current position.
“One of the things that’s probably the most frustrating is officials who don’t conduct themselves professionally,” he said. “That’s something anyone can do, regardless of what their role is, what their title is. They can conduct themselves in a professional manner and treat everyone with the respect that each and every human being deserves.
that becomes frustrating, if we don’t conduct ourselves in a professional manner,” Gower said. “An official’s entire demeanor and approach to that particular game or games that day or that night and how you approach that is very important.
“Unfortunately, the reality is perception and is what people view as reality and if you don’t check those boxes, you’re already behind the eight ball so to speak.
“That’s just part of it. The way you arrive at a place, the way you conduct yourself when you step out on a court or the field, mat, whatever it might be. It is to conduct ourselves in a way where people say, ‘He’s got it.’”
“We had a situation this year where one of our football officials used inappropriate language toward a fan,” Baylor said. “(The fan) got under their skin and they chose to respond. You can’t do that. It hurts the whole profession and it takes away from the game when that kind of incident occurs.”
Ideally, the relationship between officials and their state association should be built on a foundation of respect.
“WE HAVE A LOT OF OFFICIALS THAT KIND OF MAKE UP THE RULES ON THEIR OWN, WHICH CAUSES ISSUES DURING THE GAME.”
– TONY MASELLI
“We’re working hard for them and they’re not going to like everything and every decision that’s made just like they’re working hard on the court, on the field, in the pool, on the ice, wherever, and not everybody is going to like every call they make. I think that mutual respect is a big thing.”
Rugg says effective communication is a big key to the relationship between officials and the state associations that oversee them.
“So, that’s one of the things
Rick Woelfel is a freelance writer from the Philadelphia area. He officiated high school softball. * sOmEbOdY’s wAtChInG
“I’m a big believer in (the idea) professional relationships are fostered by mutual respect,” Rugg said, “and I think we have that in the vast majority of officials.
“It’s vital,” he said. “That’s one of the reasons we have six district administrators. Their primary job is being the liaison to the (250) local associations. In a state this big, it’s just difficult to keep a hand on the pulse and that’s what we strive to do with having guys there in their neighborhoods that connect with us.”
EDITOR: JEFFREY STERN jstern@referee.com
EDITOR: JOE JAROSZ jjarosz@referee.com
FORWARD FUMBLES LEAD THE WAY
Eight NFHS Rule Changes Approved
By Joe Jarosz
Forward fumbles ruled out of bounds between the goallines will now be brought back to the spot of the fumble due to an NFHS rule change for 2025. Equipment, technology and penalty enforcement round out the seven other changes approved by
the NFHS Football Rules Committee during its annual meeting Jan. 12-14 in Indianapolis. The changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors, along with editorial changes and points of emphasis.
The changes are presented in perceived order of significance. The caseplays and rulings were written by
Referee. Consult NFHS publications for official rulings and interpretations.
Rule Changes
Forward Fumble 3-4-3, 4-3-1 EXC. (NEW)
When a loose ball goes out of bounds or is ruled out of bounds, that
Starting in 2025, if this forward fumble is ruled out of bounds between the goallines, the
location becomes the spot for the start of the succeeding play, except with the new exception to rule 4-3-1. When a forward fumble goes out of bounds or is ruled out of bounds between the goallines, the ball will now be returned to the spot of the fumble. When 4-3-1 Exc. for a forward fumble is involved, the clock will begin on the ready for play signal instead of on the snap.
Play 1: As seen in MechaniGram A, it’s third and 10 at team B’s 15 yardline. A1 takes a pitch, sweeps to his right and fumbles at team B’s 10 yardline. The ball rolls out of bounds at team B’s five yardline. Ruling 1: Because A1 fumbled forward and out of bounds between the goallines, the ball is returned to the spot of the fumble. It will be fourth and five at team B’s 10 yardline and the clock will start on the ready for play.
Play 2: Fourth and five at team B’s 20 yardline. A1 takes a pitch, sweeps to his right and fumbles at team B’s 16
Play 3: Third and five at team B’s 20 yardline. A1 takes a pitch and is hit at team B’s 21 yardline. He fumbles and the ball rolls out of bounds at team B’s 22 yardline. Ruling 3: Because the ball went out of bounds behind the spot of the fumble, it belongs to team A at the out-of-bounds spot. It is team A’s ball, fourth and seven at team B’s 22 yardline and the clock starts on the snap.
Play 4: Second and goal from team B’s five yardline. A1 takes a handoff, runs up the middle and fumbles at team B’s one yardline. The ball rolls into team B’s end zone where (a) A2 recovers, (b) B3 recovers, or (c) the ball rolls over the endline. Ruling 4: In (a), it is a touchdown. In (b) and (c), because the ball went into team B’s end zone and was not ruled out of bounds between the goallines, the ball is not returned to the spot of the fumble and both result in a touchback. Team B’s ball, first and 10 at the 20 yardline and clock starts on the snap.
Play 5: As seen in MechaniGram B, it’s first and 10 at team A’s one yardline. A1 takes a handoff and fumbles in his end zone. The ball rolls forward and out of bounds at team A’s three yardline. Ruling 5: Because the ball was fumbled forward and ruled out of bounds between the goallines, it is returned to the spot of the fumble which is team A’s end zone. That results in a safety and team A will free kick from its 20 yardline if not relocated because of penalty. The clock starts per free kick rules.
Be aware that the exception applies to fumbles only and not to backward passes. If a backward pass
BY THE NUMBERS
124
Targeting fouls in FBS games during the 2024 regular season.
839 Number of FBS games during the 2024 regular season.
0.15
Targeting fouls per game in FBS games during the 2024 regular season.
0.25
Targeting fouls per game in FBS games during the 2020 regular season, the high mark since “targeting” was introduced in the NCAA rulebook.
SOURCE: NCAA/CFO
SURVEY SAYS ...
Do you work with the same crew all season at your primary level, or do you work with different crewmates each assignment?
SOURCE: REFEREE SURVEY OF 153 SUBSCRIBERS
same crew
72%
28% different crewmates
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yardline. The ball is touched at team B’s 14 yardline by prone B2, whose foot is touching the sideline. Ruling 2: Because A1 fumbled forward and the ball was ruled out of bounds between the goallines, the ball is returned to the spot of the fumble. Since that is short of the line to gain, team B takes over on downs at its 16 yardline and the clock starts on the snap.
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ball will be returned to the spot of the fumble.
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. A1 takes a pitch and is headed for the intersection of team B’s goalline and the sideline. A1 leaps from team B’s two yardline and reaches for the pylon. The ball, in A1’s right hand, crosses the vertical plane of the sideline at team B’s one yardline and then across the goalline extended outside the sideline as A1’s left hand touches the pylon. No other body part is touching the ground.
a. Touchdown.
b. Spot is at team B’s one yardline.
2. Third and 30 from the 50 yardline. K1 takes the snap and attempts a quick kick. The ball hits an offensive lineman in the back, never crosses the neutral zone and is recovered by prone K1 at his own 40 yardline.
a. First and 10 for team R at team K’s 40 yardline.
b. First and 10 for team K at team K’s 40 yardline.
c. Fourth and 30 for team K at the 50 yardline.
d. Fourth and 40 for team K at team K’s 40 yardline.
3. A1 takes the snap from under center and drops back three yards. Stationary back A2 blocks blitzing linebacker B3 within the free-blocking zone (NFHS) or tackle box (NCAA) below the waist from the front.
a. Personal foul.
b. Unsportsmanlike foul.
c. Legal play.
d. None of the above.
4. Third and 10 from the 50 yardline. A1 takes a pitch and runs around the left end of the line to team B’s 33 yardline where B2 momentarily grasps A1’s facemask (does not twist, turn or pull) then pushes A1 out of bounds at team B’s 30 yardline.
a. First and 10 at team B’s 30 yardline.
b. First and 10 at team B’s 25 yardline.
c. First and 10 at team B’s 15 yardline.
is muffed out of of bounds between the goallines, it is not returned to the spot of the muff and it will be spotted where it is ruled out of bounds.
Illegal Participation 9-6 Pen.
The penalty for all illegal participation fouls has been standardized as 15 yards, live ball, basic spot enforcement. Previously, some illegal participation penalty enforcement used the previous spot or the spot of the foul, potentially causing an advantage for the fouling team. This rule change does not allow a team to gain an advantage by entering and participating late in a play.
Play 6: First and 10 at team A’s 20 yardline. A1 catches a quick pass and breaks free toward the end zone. Substitute B2 enters the field of play from team B’s sideline at the 50 yardline and chases after A1. He catches and tackles A1 at team B’s 20 yardline. Ruling 6: Illegal participation by B2. The basic spot is team B’s 20 yardline and the penalty will be enforced half the distance from there, not from the spot where B2 entered the field and began to participate in the play. On this play, the referee needs to consider whether a touchdown should be awarded to team A if B2’s illegal participation prevented a score (9-9-5).
Basic Spot 10-4-4b (DELETED)
Illegal participation was removed from the list of spot foul enforcements in rule 10. The change better maintains balance between offense and defense and ensures consistency with penalty enforcement changes from recent years, particularly among illegal participation fouls.
Electronic Signage 1-5-3c(2)
Static electronic signage was removed from the list of illegal equipment. The change allows for increased opportunities to use electronic communication devices by way of fixed signs with play signals and other non-audio communication, but still does not permit non-fixed video to be used from the sideline nor between the numbers during timeouts.
Play 7: As seen in PlayPic C, while in the pre-snap huddle, team A players look toward their sideline where the offensive coordinator is holding an electronic sign with (a) static numbers and characters displayed, (b) scrolling numbers and characters displayed, or (c) as seen in PlayPic D, video recording of action from the previous play. Ruling 7: Legal in (a), illegal in (b) and (c). The penalty yardage for the dead-ball nonplayer foul is enforced 15 yards. Static electronic signage was removed from the list of illegal equipment, but non-fixed or scrolling elements are not allowed except during a conference outside the nine-yard mark. Audio and Video Devices 1-5-3c(3) (NEW)
Microphones and cameras are now among devices listed as illegal equipment. No player participating in the game will be allowed to wear any type of audio or video device in order
ILLEGAL
to record or transmit audio or video as seen in PlayPics E and F.
Tooth and Mouth Protectors
1-5-1d(5)a – 4, 5 (NEW)
Effective in 2026, tooth and mouth protector attachments are illegal and have been added to the list describing tooth and mouth protectors. Adornments that do not serve a purpose and function in protecting the mouth or present a risk to players are not allowed. Pacifiers loops, any dangling objects and spinning fans are all examples of illegal attachments.
Arm Sleeves 1-5-2d (NEW), 1-5-3c(5)
Effective in 2027, arm sleeves manufactured to enhance contact with the football or an opponent must meet the specifications determined by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). This includes sleeves attached to a shirt. All sleeves manufactured to enhance contact with the ball or opponent must have a permanent, exact replica of the SFIA seal that must be visible and appear legibly on the exterior of the sleeve as seen in PlayPic G.
Six-Player Rule 2 and 7
The change clarified that as long as there has been a change in possession from the snap receiver to another player of team A, the ball can be advanced beyond the line of scrimmage. No longer must the snap receiver execute a direct handoff or clear pass in order for the ball to be advanced across the line. For example, if the snap receiver possesses and then fumbles, the ball may be recovered by his teammate and advanced across the line of scrimmage.
Editorial Changes
Jersey Markings 1-5-1b(2)b(1), 1-5-1b(3)b(1)
Player uniforms may now contain a school mascot within the body and/ or on the shoulders, in addition to the previously allowed school’s name, nickname, logo and/or the player’s name.
Penalty
Enforcement
2-33-1; 10-3-1, 2
A loose-ball play is action during a free kick or scrimmage kick other than post-scrimmage fouls as defined in 2-16-2h and 2-33-1a, b, c, and d. A running play is any actions as defined in 2-33-2.
Spots 2-41-9b
The term “related running play” is not otherwise used in the rulebook
and so it was eliminated from rule 2-41-9b. The spot where a run ends is where the runner loses player possession if his run is followed by a loose ball, but the related run continues until the ball becomes dead or any player gains possession.
Free Kick 6-1-9
This change reorganizes language and eliminates duplication with the penalty statement for choices allowed to the offended team. When a free kick is ruled out of bounds between the goallines untouched by team R, the penalty is five yards from the previous spot and rekick, five yards from the succeeding spot or putting the ball in play 25 yards beyond the previous spot.
Defenseless Players
2-32-16d; 9-4-3 (NEW)
Rule 2-32-16d has been eliminated and contact against a defenseless receiver has been reorganized into rule 9-4-3. Previously, the determination of a player as defenseless based on actions of an opponent was inconsistent with the definition of a defenseless player, which is based on his own position and focus of concentration. No player shall initiate forceful contact against a defenseless receiver as in 2-32-16 (b) and (c) that is not: (a) incidental contact as a result of making a play on the ball; (b) initiated with open hands; or (c) an attempt to tackle by wrapping arm(s) around the receiver.
Numbering Exception 7-5-12
The numbering exception is in effect from the time the snapper touches the ball.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct 9-8-1g
Clarification was given to rule 9-8-1g in that violating any one of the examples listed there is grounds for a foul and not only if all the examples are violated. Failure to (1) comply with the restrictions of 3-2-2 at the coin toss or simulated coin toss, or (2) be ready to start the first half, or (3) be on the field following the conclusion of the halftime intermission, or (4) be ready to start the second half at the conclusion of the mandatory
CASEPLAYS
Foul on a Try Down Play: Team A is attempting a two-point try. After all 11 team A players are set for one second, A1 and A2 both go in motion and A2 is still moving at the snap. A3’s legal forward pass is intercepted by B4, who returns the ball across team A’s goalline. During the return B5 holds at team B’s 25 yardline. Ruling: In NFHS, the ball is dead when team B gains possession. Team B will decline the penalty for the illegal shift and the try is over. In NCAA, because B5’s foul was after the change of possession, the fouls cancel, the score does not count, the down is not repeated and the try is over (NFHS 4-2-2i, 7-2-6, 8-32a; NCAA 7-1-2a, 7-1-4c, 8-3-4c).
Fair Catch Signal
Play: While a scrimmage kick is in flight beyond the neutral zone, returner R1 (a) blocks the sun by holding one hand in front of his face, or (b) indicates the ball location to his teammates with one arm extended straight out in a pointing fashion. Can R1 legally recover and return the kick?
Ruling: Yes, as long as R1 gave no waving motion and his actions don’t otherwise fit the definition of a valid or invalid signal, he may return the kick. In NFHS, as long as the arm was neither waving nor raised above the head, it does not fit the definition of a fair catch signal. In NCAA, shading one’s eyes from the sun is specifically allowed by rule (NFHS 2-9-3, 2-9-4, 2-9-5, 6-5; NCAA 2-8-1, 2-8-2, 2-8-3, 6-5).
Fourth-Down Fumble
Play: On a fourth-down play or during a try, the ball falls to the ground during (a) the exchange of a shotgun snap between snapper A1 and quarterback A2, or (b) a handoff from quarterback A2 to running back A3. In each case, A3 recovers and scores. Ruling: NFHS rules do not include mention of a fourthdown fumble. A score results in both (a) and (b) (7-4-2). For NCAA, a score results in (a) because A1 muffed a backward pass. A muffed backward pass is not included in the fourth-down fumble rule. In (b), the unsuccessful handoff is a fumble by A2 and because of the fourth-down fumble rule, only he can recover and advance. The ball is dead when A3 recovers and there is no score (NFHS 7-4-2; NCAA 7-2-2a Exc. 1, 2).
warmup period are to be penalized as unsportsmanlike conduct.
Basic Spot 10-4-2
Changes combine two rules that say essentially the same thing. The basic spot is the previous spot unless 8-5-2 applies for a foul by team A or team B when the related run ends behind the line of scrimmage when there is no change of possession or before a change of possession and also when a foul occurs during a loose ball play. The basic spot is the spot of the foul for illegal batting or illegal kicking.
Penalty Enforcement 10-5-3
If the offensive team throws an illegal forward pass from its end zone or commits any other foul in its end zone for which the penalty is accepted, and enforcement is from on or behind the goalline, it results in a safety. Previous wording indicated the spot of penalty measurement not enforcement.
Points of Emphasis
The committee identified player equipment, sportsmanship and defenseless player definitions as points of emphasis.
Player equipment concerns include illegal equipment and improperly worn equipment. Illegal equipment refers to prohibited items like jewelry, tinted visors, upper arm bands and towels that do not conform to the rules. Improperly worn equipment pertains to all legal equipment items not worn as intended. Common examples include knee pads that don’t cover the knees, uncovered shoulder and back pads, and tooth and mouth protectors not worn as play begins.
Repeated violations of equipment rules can impact the game’s safety and fairness. Current NFHS rules leave officials with several administrative options to deal with persistent offenders. Delay-of-game fouls can be enforced when persistent offenses impact the pace of play. If noncompliance becomes a major issue, unsportsmanlike conduct fouls may be enforced for equipment not being worn by the offending player
as intended by the manufacturer. As a last resort, coaches who demonstrate a lack of interest in supporting important safety rules can be judged to be acting in an unsporting fashion and can be directly penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The NFHS demands all stakeholders of high school football work together to ensure the highest principles of sportsmanship and ethics of competition. While game officials are encouraged to not be overly technical in their judgment, celebratory acts which are prolonged, choreographed or directed at an opponent must be penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct. Brief, spontaneous and emotional responses to good plays are allowed, but actions such as throat slashing or brandishing weapons, rehearsed poses, gestures with sexual connotation, dunking the ball over the crossbar, somersaults or flips, and spiking or spinning the ball are specifically illegal. Since that list is by no means comprehensive, it is important for officials to remember any act clearly intended to draw attention to oneself or to demean an opponent must be penalized.
Uniform enforcement of illegal contact against defenseless opponents across the country is a major focus of the rules committee. A player is especially vulnerable to injury when physical position and focus of concentration makes him unable to protect himself against contact from an opponent. By definition, these players are defenseless and remain so until their position and focus allow them to brace for contact or otherwise protect themselves. Common categories for defenseless players include passers, receivers, sliding runners or those with forward progress stopped, players out of the play or those receiving an illegal blindside block. Special attention must be paid to these particularly vulnerable participants and coaching and officiating decisions must reflect the importance of player safety and risk minimization to the future success of high school football.
Joe Jarosz is an associate editor for Referee. He officiates college and high school football, college and high school basketball, and high school baseball. *
FUMBLE RULE
A fast, complete guide to the biggest high school rule change this season. Focused on 11 crucial plays you will need to know to properly enforce the new rule, this quick and easy guide provides real game situations, rules study, tips and techniques to prepare you immediately for your first 2025 game.
Up-to-the-minute rules, mechanics, updates, theory and technique in this complete special edition guide. Handle every situation you’ll face and make great calls look easy. Includes all recent NFHS rule changes explained and simplified, NFHS Points of Emphasis for 2025, Mechanics updates and recent changes, and much more!
GETTING IT RIGHT INSPIRATION,
Trio of Deaf Officials Makes History
By Steven L. Tietz
It was a high school boys’ basketball game like any other Dec. 4, 2024, between Monte del Sol and the New Mexico School for the Deaf (NMSD).
For the officiating crew, though, it was history in the making. For the first time ever in the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA), a three-person crew of deaf or hardof-hearing officials worked a varsity basketball game together.
Language (ASL), lip-reading, court awareness and other techniques for communicating on the court.
The crew said no fuss was made about their limited hearing. “We all treated this as a normal game like we always do,” Hooper said.
The trio said they get abundant support from their local and state associations and are as in demand as their hearing peers.
The officials also know each other well. Hooper has strong memories of Milliorn as a star player at NMSD and Milliorn came back to work at the school where he was Huizar’s student life educator. Later, Milliorn became Huizar’s basketball and football coach.
Huizar said he has known Hooper most of his life and considers him a good friend. Huizar is also the longtime coach of the NMSD’s sixplayer football team.
“(Milliorn) is the reason I became a football coach and a basketball official,” Huizar said. “He was always telling me I needed to become an official. I (told) him I would. Twenty years later, here I am. I am so thankful for being an official.”
NMSD alumni John Hooper, Robert Huizar and Ronnie Milliorn, all of Santa Fe, N.M., were excited for this chance to work a game for their alma mater.
“It was fun and challenging having three hearing-impaired officials work together for the first time,” said crew chief Milliorn, a former star basketball player and coach at NMSD who has been a state tournament-level official for nearly 30 years.
The crew had varying degrees of deafness with Milliorn being completely deaf, but all three men utilized American Sign
“I was recruited by several friends, including Ronnie, who was already officiating with the Santa Fe Basketball Officials Association,” Hooper said. “I officiated for several years, joined our local and state association in 2007 and have been with them ever since.”
Which led to that successful night Dec. 4.
“We did a lot of communication and eye contact using ASL,” Milliorn said. “The game was fast and fun. I enjoyed every minute.”
The crew looks forward to working together again.
“That is for sure,” Huizar said. “We are hoping (to) do games together next season and many more after that.”
Steven L. Tietz is an award-winning sportswriter from Milwaukee. *
‘The Luckiest Man’
Joe Gaskin of Franklin Square, N.Y., has been a basketball referee for more than 30 years. He works CYO, summer league and Nassau County high school games. He says he’s been officiating for so long that he’s been called “every name in the book.” But Gaskin now calls himself something else.
“Not to take words away from, who was it, Lou Gehrig? I’m the luckiest man on the face of the earth,” Gaskin told News 12.
Gaskin, 64, had a heart attack in early March while working a Nassau County championship game between Floral Park and West Hempstead at Wantagh High School. He felt fine before the game, but late in the first quarter he couldn’t catch his breath. At one point, he bent down to pick up the ball and then collapsed.
Wantagh athletic director Jennifer Keane, as well as a doctor and three nurses who happened to be attending the game, rushed onto the court to help Gaskin. They started CPR and Keane called for an AED, which eventually revived Gaskin.
SOURCE: NEWS 12 (LONG ISLAND, N.Y.)
Remembering Riley
A long-running youth umpire training program in Carlsbad, Calif., is launching a new annual award to honor the legacy of Riley Cocks, a former umpire and high school baseball coach who died in 2024. Carlsbad’s umpire development program has been preparing umpires for leagues such as Carlsbad Youth Baseball and La Costa Youth Organization for the past 15 years. The program’s new R Achievement Award is named after and based on Cocks’ initials (RAC) and also stands for respect, accountability and commitment — qualities for which Cocks was known. An annual recognition pin will be presented to a youth umpire who exemplifies these traits.
“Riley Cocks was and continues to be a very special part of our community, and he exemplified all of these traits and more,” Carlsbad Youth Baseball umpire-in-chief Bill Kemp said.
SOURCE: THE COAST NEWS (ENCINITAS, CALIF.)
Have you heard an inspirational or motivational officiating story? Send your ideas to GettingItRight@referee.com
From left, John Hooper, Ronnie Milliorn and Robert Huizar, all of Santa Fe, N.M., became the first officiating crew comprised of all deaf or hard-of-hearing officials to work a varsity basketball game in New Mexico.
BASKETBALL
YOU’VE GOT THE LOOK
The Right Stature Will Help Your Stature
By Tim Sloan
I
t’s well known among the basketball crowd that, “You can’t teach tall.” You can train players to dribble, shoot, pass and guard, but unless your team casts some long shadows in the paint, winning will
be a tougher prospect.
Does the same truism apply to officials? You don’t have to be 6-foot-5 to be a great basketball official. If you are, however, coaches and teams seem to be a little more patient with you making an
impression. There’s some “fitting the mold” that applies here. Years ago, NHL officials boss Stephen Walkom said players have more respect for the referees who are great skaters; since it’s a skill that distinguishes the best players, it must say something about a linesman, too, right? They
Having the right look during the pregame, including good grooming, a properly fitting uniform and solid posture while waiting for the opening tip, will serve Bill Brooks, left, Torrance, Calif., and Mark Harvey, Harbor City, Calif., well as they try to make the right impression on the game participants.
must understand the game better. At another juncture, I was an assistant referee on a big semi-pro soccer game, lined up with the players for the national anthem. The visiting goalkeeper was standing beside me and asked pleasantly, “You guys cops?” At 6-3 and 205 pounds, I was still smaller than the tavern manager and automotive engineer working with me.
Perception is your first calling card; people form opinions on what they expect to see in officials.
This all came home to roost with me recently when I worked a varsity high school boys’ basketball game with two females. Both are small college women’s officials. Their game knowledge was solid and their judgment calls were spoton. Between the three of us, we maintained a threshold for call/no call that persisted throughout.
Despite that, there was still a vibe of skunk-in-the-pup-tent afoot: It ran from some smart-ass comments drifting out of the student sections to one or two adults acting like they weren’t allowed to talk around them. I don’t care if someone’s purple as long as they can do the job; maybe that’s why I was there, too. The issue — if there was one — was that their presentation had been sculpted in a different environment than the rather novel one in which we were now working. It was an emotional and physical game, and I could tell they were aware of the scrutiny. I found myself coaching them during timeouts to keep their shoulders square, their facial expressions composed and their dead-ball movements deliberate. Both women come up to about my shoulder, so I couldn’t teach them “tall,” but I realize I was coaching them to be like tall, growing into the job.
When you look at your own game, there is much to be said for mastering the visual cues that make you more successful. Those are the little things that help the contestants believe you’re committed, confident and in charge. They plant the seed in their minds that, when anything weird happens, “Well, (s)he must know what (s)he’s doing …” That benefits everyone. So, let’s go through a list of some of the more salient things to work on.
Grooming : Look the part. Wear a clean uniform and coordinate with your partners so you all match. Neaten your coif, brush your teeth, manage your facial hair — boy, that’s lost on some people. You don’t need to look like Ken/Barbie, but you can dress like them, and it helps.
Stature: This begins from the moment you walk out for the warmup. If you’re supposed to observe the players for dunking or illegal equipment, do that. Find a comfortable stance, balanced on both feet, with hands and arms somewhere “businesslike.” Hands behind the back or arms comfortably folded works; hands-in-pockets, looking around or kibitzing with friends is a bad look.
During the pregame: When meeting and greeting anyone, make eye contact, have a pleasant expression and provide a solid handshake or fist bump: Seem interested, even if you threw the bum out in your last meeting. Thank the table people for their help and get everyone thinking you’re there to work together. There’s a lot to gain by setting a good mood before anything has gone wrong.
Move with a purpose: You don’t have to run around like a squirrel on the interstate, but don’t get caught dogging it either. When play stops, move briskly to your next position. Your goal is for all three of you to be in position, waiting for the players to restart play. When the teams are moving at the comfortable pace you set, good things happen; you
BY THE NUMBERS
The number of Final Four appearances for the 11 officials selected to work this year’s NCAA Men’s Final Four in San Antonio:
10 – Doug Sirmons
7 – Roger Ayers, Ron Groover, Keith Kimble
6 – Doug Shows, Terry Oglesby
4 – James Breeding, Tony Padilla
2 – Courtney Green
1 – AJ Desai, Michael Irving
The number of Final Four appearances for the 11 officials selected to work this year’s NCAA Women’s Final Four in Tampa, Fla.:
9 — Brenda Pantoja, Felicia Grinter, Joe Vaszily
7 — Maj Forsberg
6 — Gina Cross
4 — Tiffany Bird
2 — Kyle Bacon, Brian Hall, In’Fini Robinson
1 — Fatou Cissoko-Stephens, WIlliam Smith
DID YOU KNOW?
Second-tier NCAA postseason basketball tournaments are often used as incubators to try out experimental rules for possible use in future NCAA competition.
The NIT, WBIT and the new Crown Basketball Tournament all used, per a request from their respective rules committees, their 2025 events to address replay use in the closing minutes of games.
An experimental rule required a coach to call a timeout in order to review an out-of-bounds ruling inside the final two minutes of play, instead of leaving it to the officials’ discretion. There was no limit on the number of coaches’ appeals; however, if a team did not have any remaining timeouts and lost an appeal, that team was charged with an administrative technical foul. If a team was successful with its appeal, it kept the timeout used to challenge the play.
TEST YOURSELF
In each of the following, decide which answer or answers are correct for NFHS, NCAA men’s and NCAA women’s rules, which might vary. Solutions: p. 81.
1. All of the following result in a technical foul, except which?
a. A foul for excessive and unnecessary contact during live ball.
b. A noncontact foul by bench personnel during live or dead ball.
c. A noncontact foul by a player during live or dead ball.
d. Adding a player to the scorebook after the game has started.
2. Which of the following is true of headbands?
a. The maximum width is 2 inches, and permissible colors are white, black, beige or the predominant color of the jersey.
b. The maximum width is 2 inches, and permissible colors are white, black, beige or any color contained within the fabric of the jersey.
c. The maximum width is 3 inches, and permissible colors are white, black, beige or the predominant color of the jersey.
d. The maximum width is 3 inches, and permissible colors are white, black, beige or any color contained within the jersey.
3. A player may be the first to retrieve and hold the ball and then dribble a second time if the first dribble ended in all the following ways, except which?
a. An interrupted dribble.
b. An opponent slapped the ball, which caused the player to lose control of the ball.
c. The player’s pass was touched by another player.
d. The player attempted an unsuccessful try for goal.
4. Play is resumed at the point of interruption in all the following, except which?
a. A double personal foul.
b. An official’s inadvertent whistle while a team is in control of the ball.
c. A technical foul charged to a player for disrespectfully addressing an official.
d. All of the above are resumed at the point of interruption.
If you’re supposed to observe the players for dunking or illegal equipment, do that. Find a comfortable stance, balanced on both feet, with hands and arms somewhere “businesslike.”
tend to keep them too busy playing basketball to give you as much of a hassle.
Stature 2: Keep your head up and eyes on the players as you move around the court; don’t let transitions be your opportunity to look at your feet until you arrive at new lead. During timeouts, remember what we covered about observing the pregame; the same applies. When observing play, present yourself as alert, but not tense; you do that with quiet head and arm movements, and by standing still without rocking. When you do have to change angles or transition across the lane, move punctually and deliberately. Act like you’re applying your experience to get ready for what might happen next. The longer you’ve been refereeing, you are.
Whistling: Let your whistle express your opinion about what made you blow it. Blowing your brains out every time a ball goes out of bounds is both annoying and suspicious. Offering a little toot on that block/charge with two seconds left in a tie game doesn’t scream confidence. Learn when to be a little louder or longer (or the opposite) in situations; done properly, it helps more people understand who’s boss for the evening, and how little help you need.
Signaling: To some extent, your signals can have a touch of your personality in them. I might chop
my wrist a little more firmly than others, but I won’t make signals that look so odd they draw attention. Fitting into the mold by being prompt, firm and dispassionate will win the day.
Conversing: You probably said during the captains meeting they and their coaches would be welcome to ask questions as time/ situation permitted. So, let them ask questions and, when they do, show respect. Keep a neutral expression, relaxed body language, and present as engaged. If there comes a point to curtail the conversation, be firm and impersonal about it. When you’re in these tete-a-tetes, most observers can’t hear what’s being said but they will guess by how they see you acting; be beyond reproach.
I’ve only worked a couple thousand games in my life, but I’m forming this opinion: Following the tips listed above are qualifiers; they don’t make you a great official but are behaviors exhibited by those who are. You aren’t a great official just because you look like one of the folks on the cover of this magazine. Looking like that simply buys you the opportunity to be judged fairly on your knowledge, judgment and performance.
Stand up to the challenge and make believers of them all.
Tim Sloan, Davenport, Iowa, is a high school football, basketball and volleyball official, and former college football and soccer official. *
Is It Good if It Goes?
By René Ferrán
This isn’t the NBA! No way that basket should score!
And-one! She was shooting!
Every game, we hear variations of these complaints coming from coaches, players and fans who do not understand the concepts of continuous motion and the act of shooting and how they apply to whether or not we score a goal after we call a foul.
First, let’s go over continuous motion. Both NCAA codes define continuous motion the same way: “Continuous motion applies to a try for field goal or free throw, but shall have no significance unless there is a foul by the defense during the interval that begins when the normal throwing movement starts a try or with the touching on a tap and ends when the ball is clearly in flight” (NCAAM/W 4-7).
The NFHS definition is nearly the same, but instead of “normal throwing movement,” it uses “habitual throwing movement” (4-11-1).
What does that change in one word mean for us?
Normal refers to something we would expect as a shot attempt. So,
if a player hears the whistle, then takes a shot that looks like a shot attempt — even if it doesn’t look like previous shot attempts — it would be considered a “normal throwing motion” for the purposes of counting a goal.
Habitual refers to something we do regularly as a habit. Thus, the NFHS definition takes into account how a player regularly shoots the ball. It does not allow for players to hear a whistle, then chuck the ball toward the basket in a manner that differs from their habitual movements. Thus, we would rule continuous motion did not apply and if the team is not in the bonus, the penalty would be a throw-in at one of the four designated frontcourt spots.
In fact, article 2 of the NFHS continuous motion rule backs up this interpretation:
“If an opponent fouls after a player has started a try or tap for field goal, the player is permitted to complete the customary arm movement, and if pivoting or stepping when fouled, may complete the usual foot or body movement in any activity while holding the ball. These privileges are granted only when the
usual throwing motion has started before the foul occurs and before the ball is in flight.”
Note the use of the words “customary” and “usual” in the rule. Again, this would negate circus shot attempts that aren’t the completion of a “customary arm movement” or part of the “usual throwing motion.”
The next part of the equation is the act of shooting, which involves when a try for goal starts and ends.
Again, the NCAA codes agree on the definition of a try: “The try starts when the player begins the motion that normally precedes the release of the ball on a try. Any activity that occurs prior to this motion shall not be considered in the act of shooting. The ball does not need to leave the player’s hand. The arm might be held so that the player cannot throw; however, the player may be making an attempt” (NCAAM/W 5-1.10).
The NCAAM rulebook adds two sub-articles to its definition to address the “rip through” move in which a ballhandler intentionally swings his arms toward the defender, looking to draw contact. The sub-articles clarify that if the move is horizontal (parallel to the floor), it shall not be considered
A B
Continuous motion begins with the start of a try (PlayPic A) and ends when the ball is clearly in flight (PlayPic B).
CASEPLAYS
Touching Teammate Out of Bounds
Play : A1 shoots the ball, which bounces off the rim, and the try is unsuccessful. B2 and B3 both jump to grab the rebound, they collide and B3 falls to the floor as B2 grabs the ball. While holding the ball in one arm, B2 reaches down with the other arm to help B3 up from the floor. B3 is out of bounds while still lying on the floor when B2 grabs B3’s hand, and B3 is able to stand back up inbounds with the help of B2. While B2 was holding the ball, and then touched B3 while B3 was out of bounds, did that cause B2 and the ball to be out of bounds? Ruling : A player shall be out of bounds when they touch the floor or any object other than a person on or outside a boundary line. Since B2 only touched B3 who was out of bounds, that did not cause B2 to be out of bounds. In NFHS, a player is also out of bounds if they gain an advantage by touching a person who is out of bounds. Since B2 did not gain an advantage while helping B3 up, that does not cause B2 to be out of bounds. The ball is out of bounds when it touches any person who is out of bounds, and since the ball never touched B3, the ball was not out of bounds. B2’s actions do not result in an out-of-bounds violation, and play shall resume uninterrupted (NFHS 7-1-1, 7-12a1; NCAAM/W 7-1.1, 7-1.2).
Face Guarding
Play : A1 is being guarded by B2. B2 places and keeps his or her hands in front of A1’s face, which restricts A1’s ability to see. A1 (a) is holding the ball, or (b) does not have the ball. Is B2’s act illegal? Ruling : A player is prohibited from purposely obstructing an opponent’s vision by waving or placing hands near the eyes. The result is a player technical (NFHS), class B technical (NCAAM) or player/ substitute technical (NCAAW) assessed to B2 (NFHS 10-46d, 10.4.6A; NCAAM 10-4.1.a; NCAAW 10-12.3.a.3).
in the act of shooting, but if it is more vertical (perpendicular to the floor), the player shall be considered in the act of shooting.
The NFHS breaks the definition of the try into three articles (4-41-2 through 4), and again, it changes the word “normally” with “habitually.”
However, it adds this wrinkle in article 2: “A player is trying for goal when the player has the ball and in the official’s judgment is throwing or attempting to throw for goal.”
So, you must judge whether the player is throwing or attempting to throw for goal using his or her habitual shooting motion. That’s a lot to determine in a split-second.
Both the continuous motion and try definitions play into whether a player is in the act of shooting. On this point, all three codes agree: “The act of shooting begins simultaneously with the start of the try and ends when the ball is clearly in flight, including when the shooter is an airborne shooter” (NFHS 4-41-1; NCAAM/W 5-1.11). Two NCAAM casebook plays, A.R. 5-10 and A.R. 5-11, go into greater detail about the definition of the act of shooting, as well.
How do all these concepts form a three-part harmony? Consider this example:
Play: A1 sets a legal screen for teammate A2, who has the ball. B3, in trying to defend the shot, pushes through A1’s screen. When the illegal contact occurs, A2 has not started the trying motion, but when the official blows the whistle, A2 has started the trying motion. A2 finishes the shot attempt and the ball enters the basket.
Ruling: Under both college rule sets, the ball does not become dead until an official blows the whistle. And per the definition of continuous motion, we are in that interval between when the throwing movement starts a try and the ball is clearly in flight. Thus, the basket would count, although a coach could request a replay review. Per NCAAM 11-2.1.b.5 and NCAAW 11-3.1.r, the ruling would be reversed, as this is one of the plays where the determination of when a “foul occurs” is specifically called out in
the rule as when the illegal contact occurs, not when the whistle blows.
However, NFHS does consider the ball dead when “a foul, other than player-control or team-control, occurs” (6-7-7) and not when the whistle blows. So, in a high school game, we would not score the goal, since the foul occurred first.
So, why then do we count a basket when a player driving for a layup is fouled as he or she ends the dribble for the shot attempt?
That brings us to NCAAM/W 6-6.2: “A live ball shall not become dead when a foul is committed by an opponent of a player who starts a try for goal before a foul occurs, provided that time does not expire before the ball is in flight.” And the try starts when the player begins the motion that normally precedes the release of the ball on a try.
So, if in your judgment the player’s end of the dribble was the start of the motion that normally precedes the release of the ball on a layup (try), the player would be in the act of shooting and meet the criteria of 6-6.2.
Under high school rules, this play falls under 6-7-7 Exc. c, which states the ball does not become dead when “Article 7 occurs by any opponent of a player who has started a try or tap for field goal (is in the act of shooting) before the foul occurred, provided time did not expire before the ball was in flight.”
The exception further states, “The trying motion shall be continuous and begins after the ball comes to rest in the player’s hand(s) on a try or touches the hand(s) on a tap, and is completed when the ball is clearly in flight. The trying motion may include arm, foot or body movements used by the player when throwing the ball at the player’s basket.”
Hopefully, these rule reminders and examples allow us to make better decisions on these critical plays and provide the verbiage to answer the coach or player who asks why the basket counted or didn’t.
René Ferrán is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Portland, Ore. He officiates high school basketball and baseball, as well as youth soccer. *
Dabble With the Double?
By Joe Jarosz
While rare in practice, a double foul ruling might be just the tool you need to keep your next game on the rails.
All three rule codes use the definition of opponents committing personal fouls against each other at approximately the same time (NFHS 4-19-8a; NCAAM 4-15.2b; NCAAW 10-11.1). The operative word here is approximately, which is certainly left open for interpretation. When the tone and tenor of a given contest dictates, or when verbal instructions to players have fallen on deaf ears, using a double foul ruling can send the right message.
Physical post play. The most common and logical spot for a double foul ruling is when post players and their defenders become too physical
and both are at fault for illegal contact. “Stay legal” or “go straight” are great preventive officiating phrases to use for players who are toeing the line of illegal contact in the post, but if they fail to heed the warning, don’t be afraid to call fouls on both players.
Reporting numbers. Chances are it’s pretty obvious which two players have been creating a contact problem for the officiating crew, but when an uncommon ruling like a double foul is utilized, it can heighten the nerves and emotion of the calling official. File away the fouling players’ numbers and make sure any tension following the whistle has cleared before leaving the area and moving toward the table to report. The partner(s) of the calling official should always be prepared to assist with offending player numbers, but especially on double foul rulings
when the reporting responsibility of the calling official doubles, the rest of the crew can be a great safety net.
POI. All three rule codes dictate that no free throws are shot and play resumes from the point of interruption after double foul rulings (NFHS 10-7 Pen. 1c; NCAAM 10-1 Pen. f; NCAAW 10-11 Pen.). Calling officials must know the status of the ball before ruling a double foul and the partner(s) of the calling official must be prepared to properly determine the location of the ensuing throw-in.
Don’t make double foul rulings a habit, but be familiar with the rule and develop a philosophy around when to use the tool to help your game.
Joe Jarosz is an associate editor for Referee. He officiates college and high school football, college and high school basketball, and high school baseball. *
A mural at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta paints officials in a different light.
California artist/illustrator
Jake Messing wanted to portray professional referees in a different, more positive light. That was the driving motivation for a gigantic mural at MercedesBenz Stadium (MBS), where the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United play football and soccer, respectively.
“There’s so much negativity around referees and so this was kind of wanting to be a little more playful and have fun with it,” Messing said of his gigantic mural, “On the Line ” It is on display on Concourse 300 and fans can view it as they traverse to the concession stands.
By Randy Louis Cox
“These referees get a lot of heckling I love football and go to the games all the time,” Messing said
Fans could certainly get a feast for their eyes by studying this satirical three-paneled oil painting that shows a playful scene of entangled referees falling over each other to officiate a game.
This mural, along with three of Messing’s smaller ones (Broken Play 1, 2 and 3 in the VIP section), plus several others by various artists made their debut when the stadium opened in 2017
“I have received a lot of good feedback from it,” he said. “When it was aired, there
was a brief moment during the game when they gave me a shout-out and after that I got a lot more emails and people just writing in saying they love the pieces, and it made them smile and that was just so good to hear because that’s what I do it for.”
A Northern California native, Messing worked as a freelance illustrator in New York City, designing and creating original artwork and window displays for the luxury retail market. He also was the manager of the art department for global creative visual merchandising at Tiffany & Co.
The whimsical painting “On the Line” features football officials.
Asked how the mural came about, Messing said he competed with other artists who wanted to paint murals when MBS started an application process. “When they built Mercedes-Benz Stadium, they wanted to include some artwork. So, there was an open call to artists to submit a concept or ideas to be included into the stadium.”
Messing’s original idea was to have the mural show just football players, but then
he came up with the concept involving referees. He said having all referees just felt more dynamic than the players.
“Having all the stripes, I think it’s just something more interesting for the eye to look at, and sometimes the referees get a bad rap,” he said. “I was honored to be part of it for sure.
“I started off with sketches for it and then I did a full rendering to put it all together before I presented it, so it was well fleshed out before I even
sent it off. It is the longest painting that I’ve done to date.” Measurements for the three panels are: 30-by-11 feet, 40-by11 feet and 30-by-19 feet.
You can look at the painting up close and think you may recognize some real professional referees there, but no, says the artist.
“I thought about using some real referees, but to do that you have to get usage rights and make sure that their likenesses are approved, and so it’s not there, but it is close,” he said.
“There’s some creative license.”
Messing decided to use faces of some of his friends who referee high school games and youth recreation matches.
“Once I got this job, everybody wanted to be included in it,” he said, adding that some of his friends who weren’t referees are also included in the painting.
Although there were at least two artists who painted murals on the MBS walls themselves, Messing said he wasn’t going to imitate the legendary Sistine Chapel artist, Michelangelo “Most everybody had to do their work off-site as far as I know,” he said. Messing rented a warehouse within two miles of the stadium. But even that had its problems — playing into the archtype of the suffering artist.
The three panels of “On the Line” can be found above a concessions area in the 300 section of Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
“I started the canvas, and we did everything in this warehouse, and it was freezing cold,” he said. “It was essentially just four walls, no insulation, and I was back-andforth at that time. I had just moved back to California with my family, so I was flying to Atlanta … putting weeks in and painting while my wife and I just had a new baby!”
It was a year-long project, Messing said.
“Not sure how many manhours that I put in, but it was a lot,” he said.
After the work was completed in the warehouse, he took it all off the stretcher, rolled it up and drove it over to
the stadium, stretching it up on the wall.
“We hung it on-site after the fact,” he said.
The mural has been up since the building opened in 2017, and it has become part of the ambience and atmosphere of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
For more information on the artist and his paintings, visit www.jakemessing.com. Randy Louis Cox is a journalist living in Lilburn, Ga. He is the author of 715 at 50: The Night Henry Aaron Changed Baseball and the World Forever. *
The final panel shows a pileup of officials.
Jake Messing is the Californiabased artist behind the mural.
ALL NEW TOOLS FOR TRACK & FIELD OFFICIALS
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This new Officials Manual combines the NFHS manual with a visual representation of mechanics. Areas of responsibility and dozens of potential competition situations explained. Referee’s exclusive PlayPic® and Mechanigrams® show you where you need to be to get more calls right.
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Packed full of updates, tips, and valuabe information this affordable resource is perfect for association meeting topics, or individual pre-meet refreshers.
RESTART READINESS Things to Remember When Play Resumes
By the Referee editors
At a time when scrutiny of officials is greater than ever before, the need to get plays right is Job One. Most evaluators won’t judge an official too harshly who may not be in the absolute best position according to the manual but still makes a correct ruling on the play. Unless the official freelances his or her positioning the entire game, correct judgment trumps slightly flawed mechanics almost every time.
With all of the pressure officials face while play is in progress, it’s easy
to forget that what happens while play is stopped is just as important as what happens during active play. An official who views timeouts or the time between plays as dead time is asking for trouble.
Here are six things you need to do before play resumes after a stoppage.
1. Make Eye Contact With Your Partners
Just because you’re ready to go, it doesn’t mean those you’re working with are in the same state of preparedness. They may be tying a shoe, addressing a clock or equipment
problem, talking to a coach or player, or just plain daydreaming. Restarting the game before everyone’s ready can result in having to redo the restart, which makes you look unprofessional.
Players should be allowed a reasonable amount of time to take their positions coming out of a timeout or inning change. But don’t hold things up to accommodate lollygaggers.
You should also make sure gamerelated auxiliary personnel (e.g. the chain crew, scorers, timers) are in place and ready to go as well.
Before dropping the puck for a faceoff, Myles Dalton-Steinhardt, La Jolla, Calif., ensures his crewmates are ready. Taking a moment to check before resuming play prevents the embarrassment of having to stop the action and start over.
2. Consider the Game Situation
Understanding what strategy the teams may employ when play resumes helps you plot your positioning ahead of time. The score, juncture of the game and other factors should all be noted and analyzed.
Knowing which rules may come into play when the action resumes will help you be more prepared if a situation arises.
For instance, runners on first and third may be a precursor for a squeeze bunt or double steal in baseball and softball. A football team emptying its backfield, putting the quarterback in shotgun position and stacking one side of the formation with eligible receivers might indicate a Hail Mary pass or “pick” play. A trailing team late in a basketball game often employs a full-court press or looks to foul, hoping missed free throws will create offensive opportunities. Be on guard for intentional fouls in those cases.
3. Check for Obstacles or Other Potential Dangers
Cheerleaders or dance teams using props such as pompoms or run-through banners sometimes leave debris behind on the playing surface. Make a quick but thorough visual scan of the area to be sure it’s safe to proceed.
Fans anticipating the end of the game will sometimes move closer to the court or field. If necessary, get the help of game management to keep the crowd back so they don’t become entangled with athletes or officials and don’t interfere with play.
If the game was stopped due to blood, be sure any affected areas are properly cleaned. If the rules of the sport cover situations in which players have blood on their uniforms, ensure the uniform is in compliance per the rules of the sport.
Ensure that game apparatus (e.g. nets, pylons, goals) is in order. Balls used for between-innings or betweenhalves warmups may have not been collected. Scan the field or court to ensure there are no strays that could present danger or confusion to the participants.
4. Work With the Players When Possible
Don’t allow a team to put itself at a disadvantage by restarting play with fewer than the required number of players. By the same token, if the rules of the game allow you to help a team correct a situation in which it has too many or too few players, take advantage of the rule.
That doesn’t mean coach the players by directing them to adjust their positioning. An example would be telling an infielder to play a batter more to pull. But some sports give you the option of warning a player if they’re in danger of committing a foul.
5. Know the Clock Status
In sports that use a game clock, know if and when the game clock is supposed to start. That is especially important at the end of periods when time is precious.
Also take note of how many timeouts each team has remaining. When a request for a timeout is granted, remind the coaches how many are still available and confirm that number with your crewmate(s).
6. Observe Injured Players
If play was stopped because a player was injured, note if the player is attempting to return to the game. In some cases, the rules require that if play was stopped because of an injury, the player may not return to action immediately. If the injury is so severe that the rules require the player to receive written clearance from a physician before participating, you must obtain the document and keep it for your records.
Also, casually look over the players and their equipment. Are jerseys tucked in? Is all required equipment present and being worn properly? Preventive officiating before the play saves you from having to be the unpopular “uniform police” who assesses what many perceive to be a nitpicky penalty once play resumes. *
SAYS
Is increased communication transparency among officiating crew members good for the game?
You’ve been told time after time you need to stay hydrated during officiating assignments, workouts, etc. And you know water is generally considered the best “medicine” for replenishing fluids lost through activity. But are you aware that adding lemon to your water can be beneficial? Lemon in your water adds flavor. Lemons in general are good for you. They can boost the immune system and relieve respiratory problems. They contain vitamin C, which aids in fighting colds and chest infections, and potassium, which stimulates brain and nerve function and controls blood pressure.
QUICKTIP
The most important accessory on your cell phone is not the latest app or ringtone. It’s a list of key phone numbers. What do you do if you arrive for a game and there’s no one at the site? What’s your first move if your partner is a no-show? Calling for help will be a slow process if you don’t have the numbers of your assigners, the game manager, the host school, your partners and any area officials saved in your phone.
Your Talent Flows When Your Ego Goes
By the Referee editors
Confidence is not a suggestion when it comes to being good in this avocation. It is at the core of what it takes to be a good official in any sport.
Rarely will you see timid officials succeed at a high level. Experiences and knowledge help create that confidence. As officials get more comfortable, they acquire a bit of an edge. It’s a natural progression. However, that edginess can quickly turn into arrogance, which can be a big turn off to the people you work with and for. So how do you toe the line?
Walk the Talk
If you are going to carry yourself as if you know it all, have the knowledge to back it up. There are plenty of people who think they know rules, mechanics and philosophies in their sport. Know them and how to apply them.
Knowledge helps to create legitimate confidence that surpasses the qualities of the arrogant. You can only sweet talk your way through situations for so long without actually knowing before the people around you catch on.
Listen
A really quick way to show you care about anyone other than yourself is to stop talking. Just listen. You may have more experience than anyone in the room but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn something new.
Even if your partners have nothing to offer you, listening goes a long way in establishing relationships with the person or people you are working with.
When it comes to building rapport with coaches, sometimes all they want and need is for you to listen. Not every interaction with a coach has to be a give-and-take. Sometimes the message is subtle. If you don’t listen, you’ll miss it. And the next time the coach may not be as understanding.
Know Your Audience
There are new officials who want to learn everything they can from you. There are officials who are perfectly content with where they are and don’t particularly care what you have to say. That’s OK! Don’t waste your time and energy forcing your knowledge on people who don’t want to hear it.
You can easily tell if someone is engaged through their body language and their response to what is being said. Ignoring a partner or coach when they are talking to you is a sure way to make them feel like you think you are better than them whether that is your intention or not.
Learn From Mistakes
Perfection is unattainable, yet we continue to pursue it. Knowing when you’re wrong is important, but accepting it is the difference-maker. Don’t be a repeat offender!
If you can help someone learn from something you did wrong, you are helping the entire officiating community get one step closer to that, albeit unattainable, goal of perfection.
Be Yourself
Nobody wants to be known as “that official.” You know the one, the know-it-all, Mr. or Ms. Perfect, the one whose ego can’t fit in the locker room or the official who can’t stop talking about how great he or she is.
Just as officials can suffer because they don’t have enough belief in themselves, others pay the price for having too much, or worse, the wrong kind of belief in themselves. There’s a huge difference between having a rock-solid ego and being obnoxiously arrogant. Ironically, it’s often the folks who try to come off as know-it-alls who really have the most self-doubt.
The reality is every person has a unique set of qualities they bring to the game and their crew (if applicable). Trying to be someone you’re not will quickly catch up with you.
Use your confidence wisely. It’s important to manage that confidence and use it for the good of the game. Remember that what you do is louder than what you say. Don’t let your confidence turn into cockiness. *
Confidence gained from years of experience allows Chris Tucker, Ewa Beach, Hawaii, to make good decisions in his assignments. Belief in one’s own ability is different than cockiness, which is to be avoided.
When You’re Stronger Than Your Partner
The excitement of getting an important assignment can be dampened when you discover that your partner is lacking some skills.
Still, the game goes on and the officials must put their best effort forward. Here are several situations that can occur or apply in games where you are working with someone you perceive to be a weak partner.
Making Calls in Your Partner’s Area
Whether you believe your partner did not see a play or just didn’t make a call for whatever reason, you’ve seen an infraction and decide to make the long-distance call.
While that can be technically correct, you’ve damaged your partner’s ability to call the rest of the game and possibly his or her credibility with both coaches.
Concentrate on making the calls that are your responsibility and don’t try to do the job of multiple officials.
Play Coverage
As officials move up the ladder, they are usually getting their first exposure to working with more officials on the court or field. The first time most baseball or softball umpires work the three-umpire system is in the state tournament. The same goes for a crew of six or seven football officials.
One pregame topic to cover could be, what happens when a play isn’t covered? All umpires need to be aware of what is happening on the field and either alert the partner who’s responsible for the play to cover it or fill the gap and deal with the mechanics flaws in a postgame discussion.
Coaches Expect You to Change It
By rule in most sports, one official cannot substitute his or her judgment for that of another official. But if you have definite knowledge that a ruling is incorrect, you can go to that official, provide information and work with him or her to change the call.
Remember, you were there once. One of the most rewarding things to be a part of in officiating is seeing that weaker official have success in a big game and gain confidence. Going into the game with confidence and having a detailed pregame discussion can set a tone that will enable that official to focus on the game and not worry about impressing the coaches, players or you. His or her actions will do that and hopefully he or she will gain the confidence necessary to face future challenges. *
FOR THE RECORD
AWARDS, ROSTERS, NOTABLES
POSTSEASON ASSIGNMENTS
HIGH SCHOOL
• These officials were assigned by the Georgia High School Association to work 2024 fall sports championships:
Football — Kenneth Berrong, Byron Berryhill, Chalary Bloodser, Jason Bradley, Jacobi Brown, Ryan Brown, Ian Bucy, Scott Burgess, Jerry Bush, Mickey Carroll, Adam Causey, Ken Clampitt, William Dabney, DJ Doss, Dylan Dulsey, Matthew Fillion, Bill Goldring, Keith Hammond, Khenji Harris, John Heath, Gregg Hendrickson, Benny Hickman, Greg Hogle, Brian Holmes, Patrick Ingram, Brandon Janco, Ryan Jones, Rodney Kinnie, Theo Lamar, George Lee, Cam Mason, Adam McFadden, Bert Moore, Chris Moore, John Moss, James Murray, Russ Nelson, Jeremy Pennamon, Carlos Perry, Cory Quinn, John Richard, Foy Shemwell, Casey Simmons, Alan Skinner, Bryce Smith, Kenny Smith, Sheldon Smith, Antwoine Stewart, Freddie Stewart, George Thomas, Gahmal Walton, Russell Waters, Jamie Wetherton, Jeff Williams, Marc Wilson, Darryl Wolfe.
Softball — Thomas Bills, Anthony Brown, Tonya Cash, Chris Chubb, Lynn Church, Paul Conner, Jimmy Cranford, William Epps, Jeffery George, John Gilleland, David Gilliam, Lee Gray, Kel Grier, Donald Griffin, David Haulman, Powell Hazzard, Henry Hill, Dustin Holton, Kenneth Hopkins, Richard Jenkins, Charles Kuhfahl, Don Maddox, Jay McHugh, Rashaad Mincey, Greg Newell, Stephanie Newson, Jill Poole, Michael Rawlings, Rickie Sexton, Rana Smith, Barry Trammell, Heath Walker, Dexter Williams.
Volleyball — Philip Ackerman, Dion Anthony, Jim Barrow, Herb Benford, Ruth Christian, Cherlie De Jesus, Leslie Dixon, Jackie Eversley, Andrea Hamrick, Sean Harvin, Susan Johnson, Eduardo Kianes, Gary Landon, Glen Lawton, Marilyn Lawton, Jose Lopez, April Ludwig, Khiah Lynch, Chris McArthur, Stephanie McDonald, Bob
McKessey, Roberto Ortiz, Steve Parham, Jennifer Phiel, Danny Rager, Scott Rismiller, Willie Shelton, Billy Shipley, Christie Svenson, Patricia Taylor, Keith Wages, Alaina Walker, Shereitha Wellington, Dwayne Wilson.
Cheer — Kelly Buice, Jenny Caheely, Holly Capp, Brenda Carter, Betsy Chailers, Jamal Childers, Amber Collins, Evan Craig, Erica Dawson, Alison Dollar, Greg Dyer, Blair Eacret, Carrie Edge, Kelly Fields, Dawn Flowers, Heidi Goodin, Barbara Hall, Kayla Herring, Jessica Horne, Carmen Horst, Lin Kerr, Kristen Kirkland, Shawn Manning, Alex Marsh, Kellen Martinak, Tara Miller, Jenny Montjoy, Jennifer Odom, Chastity Rhoden, April Smith, Jenna Williamson, Patrick Wright.
• These officials were assigned by the Louisiana High School Athletic Association to work 2024 fall sports championships: Football — Chris Abadie, Metairie; Michael Barnes, Leesville; Travis Broussard, Lecompte; Kelly Brown, Schriever; Terrell Brown, Baton Rouge; Kent Buller, Lake Charles; Malachi Cade, Monroe; Verlyn Carter, Monroe; Resta Choate, Shreveport; Iggy Christiana, Kenner; Shawn Clark, New Orleans; Kevin Clement, Thibodaux; Anthony Collins, Thibodaux; Cody Crews, Deville; Gregory Davis, Baton Rouge; Jon Davis, Leesville; Chris Ducote, Monroe; Todd Dugruise, Thibodaux; Tim Duncan, Gretna; Brady Dupree, Natchitoches; Percy Fields, New Orleans; Bryan Fontenot, Thibodaux; Torrick Friels, Marksville; Travis Gaines, Baton Rouge; Ken Generoso, Monroe; Codie Granier, Thibodaux; Scott Green, Winnfield; Gerald Frank Hebert, Denham Springs; Gerald Mike Hebert, Greenwell Springs; John Hebert, DeQuincy; Alan Held, New Orleans; Jim Herrick, Pineville; Corey Hill, Haughton; Holly Hobson, West Monroe; Joshua Hobson, West Monroe; Kevin Hoiseth, Leesville; Mason Husmann, West Monroe; Brad Johnson, Plain Dealing; Hayden Johnson, Shreveport; Kinsley Johnson, Baton Rouge; Mike
Jones, Thibodaux; Justin Kees, Pineville; James Kleles, Patterson; Jerome Landry, Ball; Corey Manuel, Lake Charles; Chris Marrero, Leesville; Gary Mayeaux, Ball; Derek Midkiff, Ragley; Eli Midkiff, Ragley; Beau Moore, Harahan; Roger Moore, Baton Rouge; Jess Mullican, DeRidder; Roderic Newton, Baton Rouge; Arthur Ordoyne, Thibodaux; John Parker, DeRidder; Mike Parrish, Baker; Ricky Payne, Springhill; Dustin Percle, Denham Springs; Danzie Pierce, Monroe; Virgil Pratt, Denham Springs; Daniel Robinson, Shreveport; Marcus Ryan, Gonzales; Adrian Saldana, Shreveport; Troy Savage, Metairie; Gary Schexnaildre, Covington; Kendrick Shanklin, Zachary; Ray Slocum, Metairie; Ed Solomon, Donaldsonville; Tyler Sparrow, Monroe; Paul Spencer, Stonewall; Mike Summers, Norco; Earl Thomas, Madisonville; Chris Tuminello, Baton Rouge; Robert Underwood, Ruston; Joseph Vinson, Alexandria; Sean Watson, Marrero; William Wedley, Slidell; Ryan Williams, Ruston; Brian Wynne, Prairieville; Alex Ziegler, Kenner. Volleyball — Alora Allen, Slidell; Lynne Amedee, Abbeville; Jami Brossette, Shreveport; Brooke Champagne, Metairie; Madisyn Clement, Iota; Scott Daigle, Youngsville; Tora Danos, Raceland; Chuck Dorvin, Kenner; Toria Guidry, Lafayette; Jonathan Guillot, Lafayette; Jaime Hebert, Lafayette; Mark Hoff, Mandeville; Austin Jobe, Metairie; Sadi Jones, Arnaudville; Tamikia Jones, New Iberia; Tammy LaCour, River Ridge; Debbie Landry, Broussard; James Landry, Houma; John Marlbrough, Mandeville; Rachel Meaux, Rayne; Everett Odom, Baker; Luke Pousson, Westlake; Lynn Roberts, Marrero; Robin Romar, Opelousas; Madyson Shields, Hammond; Jason Stelly, Natchitoches; Holly Sumner, Baton Rouge; Blaise Talbot, New Iberia; Nedda Taylor, St. Amant; Jeannine Thibodeaux, Marrero; Thelander Tillman, Baton Rouge; Dwight Wise, Elmwood.
• These officials were assigned by the Florida High School Athletic Association
to work 2024 fall sports championships: Football — Alex Acevedo, Tom Becker, Dean Bennett, Brian Bostick, Steven Boyd, Lance Bradford, Brett Brecheisen, Tee Bright, Victor Brown, Rodney Brown, Larry Casher, Mike Conners, Troy Costain, Max Costanzo, Wally DeVries, Clancy Dixon, Mike Dulaney, John Fiore, Dan Fremling, Jeffrey Geller, Mike Gothelf, Destinee Graham, Clifton Hardy, Lorenzo Hatten, Charles Hepburn, Eddie Howard, Walter Howard, Steve Humane, Maria Jackson, Mark Jensen, Maurice Jones, Andrew Joseph, Dale Keneipp, Todd Kerns, Sean Klover, Steve Mazzola, Danny Nelson, Evan Ortiz, Nathan Radcliff, Noel Rego, Wayne Remus, Nicole Rilo, Larry Roorda, Rock Roorda, Rick Sanzone, Tom Schuessler, Jeremy Shamash, Anthony Siplin, Duane Small, Steve Smith, Jeff Solomon, Jeff Sponseller, Doug Stevens, Patty Suarez, Ed Sullivan, Jerome Thompson, John Trach, Waid Tribiano, Cornelius Troy, Adam Weissberger, Darryl Williams, Tom Woodley.
Girls’ volleyball — Emily Bell, Erik Benz, Shay Bethel, Mark Carlson, Christi Ditter, Matthew Dunbar, Sally Ellis, Bob Farroll, Sam Gillespie, Mark Goodson, Angel Guerrero, Eddie Harbison, Ashley Hargiss, Joseph Hernandez, Anna HollisChildress, Kevin Howard, Max Jeanty, Helen Kelchner, Chris Koenig, Craig Malson, Willena McConico, Norma McGraw, Benjamin Miller, Hollisa Miller, Bryan Montanez, Cristina Rexach, Eddie Riffone, Mike Routsong, Francisco Sanchez, Moises Santiago, Dave Skove, Lindsey Sheffield, Rick Turner, Jorge Vales, Jim Wadsworth. Swimming and diving — Bob Bentz, Scott Boggs, Donald George, Joe Glennon, Steven Goldman, Felix Gonzalez, Robert Griffiths, Melissa Hellervik-Bing, John King, Gary Sanderson, Justin Spooner, Beth Stargardt, Matt Stoneburg, Frank Swigon, Tom Ward.
Do you have any rosters, assignments or awards that warrant mention?
Send info to us at ForTheRecord@referee.com
ROSTERS
2025 MLB Crews
The 2025 MLB umpiring crews. The first name listed on each crew is the crew chief.
ROSTERS
2025 UFL Crews
The 2025 officiating crews for the United Football League. Order is referee, umpire, down judge, line judge, field judge, side judge, back judge (conference/league worked during the regular season is in parentheses).
27 Adam Savoie, Colleyville, Texas (ACC)
80 Daniel Gautreaux, Scott, La. (SEC)
35 John Braun, Ogden, Utah (Big 12)
2 Quentin Givens, Los Angeles (Big 12)
25 Nicole Randolph, Farmington Hills, Mich. (Big Ten)
48 Michael Kennedy, Chesapeake, Va. (AAC)
42 Peter Buchanan, Fairfax, Va. (ACC)
72 Bryan Banks, Champaign, Ill. (Big Ten)
15 Amanda Sauer, Pittsburgh (Big Ten)
85 Stephen Ray, Frisco, Texas (SEC)
50 Marcus Allen, Lewis Center, Ohio (Big Ten)
53 Josh Aragon, Rocklin, Calif. (MWC)
73 Justin Larrew, Olivette, Mo. (SEC)
86 Brett Toney, Collierville, Tenn. (SEC)
16 Kole Knueppel, Milwaukee (Big Ten)
54 Ian Malepeai, Boise, Idaho (Big 12)
51 Chad Green, Columbia, Mo. (SEC)
4 Jim Wharrie, Aliso Viejo, Calif. (Big Ten)
10 LaShell Nelson, Irving, Texas (Big Ten)
88 Phillip Hicks, Van Buren Township, Mich. (Big Ten)
37 Joe Johnston, Missoula, Mont. (Big 12)
5 Jason Autrey, Holt, Fla. (SEC)
9 Tutashinda Salaam, Denver (Big 12)
26 Andy Warner, Gilbert, Ariz. (Big 12)
71 Monique Washington, Ellerslie, Ga. (Pac-12)
55 Glen Fucik, Richmond, Texas (SEC)
70 Milton Britton, Boston (ACC)
19 Justin Staehr, Fargo, N.D. (Big Ten)
84 Chris Coyte, Santa Ana, Calif. (Big Ten)
20 Scott Walker, Mount Pleasant, S.C. (NFL)
95 Brian Perry, Houston (NFL)
71 Brian Sakowski, Penn Township, Pa. (NFL)
92 Jose Martinez, Albuquerque, N.M. (Big 12)
41 Jeff Shears, Charlotte, N.C. (NFL)
17 Jake Kemp, Rockford, Mich. (Big Ten)
22 Jeff Heaser, Gallatin, Tenn. (SEC)
59 William Thomas, Reading, Pa. (ACC)
62 Cravonne Barrett, Lancaster, Calif. (Big 12)
14 Jeremiah Harris, Frisco, Texas (SEC)
4 Conor Clougherty, Raleigh, N.C. (ACC)
97 Gabrel DeLeon, Phoenix (Big 12)
94 Donnie Aultman, West Monroe, La. (Big 12)
8 Michael Vandervelde, Mandeville, La. (Big 12)
21 Krystle Apellaniz, Oviedo, Fla. (ACC)
99 Rod Ammari, Fullerton, Calif. (Big Ten)
38 Josiah Ford, Parker, Texas (ACC)
13 Justin Nelson, Layton, Utah (Big Ten)
45 Kendal Smith, Harris Township, Mich. (MAC)
75 David Ross, Mesa, Ariz. (SEC)
79 Francisco Villar, Los Angeles (Big Ten)
32 Ron Turner, Monroe, La. (SEC)
12 Kristopher Loving, Noblesville, Ind. (Big Ten)
18 Cat Conti, Agoura Hills, Calif. (Big 12)
76 Eric Hartman, West Palm Beach, Fla. (Big 12)
10 Michael Griffith, North Canton, Ohio (ACC)
6 Fred Dimpfel, Baltimore (ACC)
LAW ISSUES AFFECTING OFFICIALS
Disciplined Discipline
By Alan Goldberger
To be sure, the best officials among us are surprisingly good at sorting out what the players can and cannot do under the rules of their sport. Competent officials routinely penalize that which is “illegal” under the rules. But are the same officials, cast in the role of association officers, as adept at sorting out the rights of their association and fellow officials when negative information about an official may cast doubt on the official’s character and ability to call a fair game?
When officials are characterized as bad actors — either in media accounts, internet posts or other forums — the game changes. And, while association officers may think they can lead their associations based on their sense of propriety and decency alone, that is where the trouble starts. Association management is not a game; but it has
Association officers who disregard bylaws and rely on their personal moral barometer are asking for trouble. Legal trouble.
its rulebooks. For most associations, the “rules” applicable to member officials are contained in a document known as “bylaws,” or sometimes “constitution” or “operating code.”
Legally speaking, the “rules” of the association game reflect the purpose of the organization and are tacitly or explicitly assented to by officials who qualify for membership. As such, membership in an organization is the rough equivalent of a contract between members and the organization itself. Everyone involved agrees to follow the bylaws established with the consent of the members.
When the question of official discipline comes up, a successful resolution depends on the answers to a number of questions: Do your officers act in a manner consistent with the association’s stated purpose, bylaws and procedures? Or do association
officers make impulsive conclusions based on whatever “information” they have at hand? Are news accounts, emails or letters complaining about an official’s behavior justification for an association to immediately impose discipline relying solely on whatever happens to land in the association’s inbox?
If the association is like most officials’ organizations, likely its officers are given to swearing up, down and sideways that its officials are “independent contractors.” Still, many association officers persist in treating officials as they would employees of the association. This is risky business, especially if your association is membership-driven and not a college conference or a professional sports league. When officials associations act in haste on speculation or unexamined and unverified data, someone needs to say, “Not so fast.” Association officers are often unaware that members of nonprofit associations, who more often than not pay dues and subscribe at least tacitly to an organization’s bylaws and policies, have some legal rights! Whether the information garnered relates to involvement (past or present) with the criminal justice system or media accounts alleging bad acts, or complaints regarding an official’s work on the court or field, those rights are not well served by the “Bang! You’re suspended” method of association management. In fact, some state laws provide those members of nonprofit organizations to be entitled to a trial or similar proceeding to adjudicate charges. Association officers who disregard bylaws and rely on their personal moral barometer are asking for trouble. Legal trouble. As many association officers have learned, feelings are not a substitute for facts. Consequently, when an official loses assignments and seeks legal redress in the courts, an unprepared association may be in for a costly, time-consuming and unpleasant diversion from the business of officiating.
Alan Goldberger is an official and attorney from Fairfield, N.J. This column is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. *
Do’s and Don’ts of Discipline
DO make sure your association bylaws are kept current and consistent with the way the association operates.
DON’T suspend a member without affording the member an opportunity to be heard and submit a defense.
DO remember that officials have rights that do not disappear simply because allegations of wrongdoing are made.
DON’T share any details of allegations, findings, bylaws violations or other wrongdoing with anyone outside of the association officers or other designated people within the group.
DO consider that officials are entitled to an opportunity to present facts refuting allegations that association bylaws were violated.
DON’T publish or repost newspaper articles, media posts or accusations against a member in any way, shape or form.
DO remember that, when considering sanctions against an official, the question is not whether the officers disapprove of the conduct. Rather, the question is, did the official violate the bylaws or established association policy?
DON’T issue any public statements regarding the issues unless authorized by association counsel.
DO document any action taken in the appropriate committee minutes, or as directed by your association’s counsel.
DON’T assume that the association has an obligation to pass along details of any information received to anyone outside of the association.
DO provide a member accused of violations notice of the charges, the documents received and time to prepare to defend those charges.
DON’T discuss or exchange emails and texts discussing anything related to an official’s discipline or lack thereof.
DO maintain a current roster of members in good standing and eligible for assignments.
DON’T discuss a member’s guilt of culpability, in any association meeting or in writing, except with association counsel.
DO provide flexibility in your bylaws for hearing timing and procedures.
SOURCE: ATTORNEY ALAN GOLDBERGER
CLASSIFIEDS
CAMPS/CLINICS/ SCHOOLS
* ATTENTION ASSOCIATION LEADERS! Are you holding a camp or a clinic? Do you know of a camp or a clinic coming up? Referee can help get the word out! Call our sales department at 262-6328855 for more information.
LEADERSHIP RESOURCES
* Association Advantage Membership to Association Advantage provides officials, associations and their leaders the tools to conduct wellrun meetings, education resources for officiating training and access to years of association
management articles. Member associations also receive 12 issues of Referee magazine, monthly Advisor newsletters, e-newsletters, massive discounts on training materials and optional insurance coverage exclusive to membership. For additional membership information, contact Ken Koester at 262-632-5448 or visit the Association Advantage website at nasoadvantage.com.
EQUIPMENT/APPAREL
* Purchase Officials Supplies — Everything for Life Inside the Lines. Call 800-767-2233 or visit the website purchaseofficials. com for the best products and prices in the market.
QUIZ ANSWERS
BASKETBALL
1 — All – a (NFHS 10-1-2b, 10-4-6, 10-4-7, 10-5-1; NCAAM 10-2.2.b, 10-3.1, 10-3.2; NCAAW 10-12.1, 10-12.2.b.2, 10-12.4.a, 10-12.5.a)
2 — NFHS – c (3-5-4a, 3-54b); NCAAM – a (1-24.1); NCAAW – b (1-23.3)
3 — All – a (NFHS 9-5; NCAAM/W 9-7)
4 — NFHS, NCAAW – c (NFHS 4-36-1; NCAAW 4-23); NCAAM – d (4-28)
BASEBALL
1 — All – c (NFHS 8-3-3; NCAA 8-3g1; pro 5.06b4B)
2 — All – d (NFHS 8-2-8; NCAA 8-3; pro. 5.06a1)
3 — All – c (NFHS 7-1-2 Pen. 4; NCAA 7-11a3; pro 6.03b7)
4 — NFHS – e (6-1-2); NCAA, pro – d (NCAA 9-1a; pro 5.07a1)
FOOTBALL
1 — NFHS – b (2-26-3, 4-3-3); NCAA – a (4-1-3a, 8-2-1a)
2 — Both – d (NFHS 5-1-4, 6-2-1, 6-2-3; NCAA 5-1-4b, 6-3-1a)
3 — NFHS – a (2-17-1, 2-172, 9-3-2); NCAA – c (2-34-1, 9-1-6a)
4 — NFHS – b (9-4-3h Pen.); NCAA – a (9-1-8)
SOCCER
1 — NFHS – c (3.1.3A); NCAA, IFAB – b (NCAA 3.2.1; IFAB 3.1)
2 — All – c (NFHS 12-1-2; NCAA 12.3.2.12; IFAB 12.1)
4 — All – a (NFHS 12-5-1f11; NCAA 12.4.7; IFAB 12.3)
* Ump-Attire.com — The #1 website for officials’ sporting goods. Now serving free returns to go along with more brands, product reviews, same-day shipping and world-class service.
TRAINING RESOURCES
* Referee Training Center — The largest library of officiating training materials in the world. Rules study, mechanics updates and materials on important topics can all be found in one location 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with sample chapters and video samples. Discover it all at store.referee.com.
JUNE
FLASHBACK
40 YEARS AGO … 1985
• Big Ten basketball official Jim Bain is awarded $12,230 in his suit against John and Karen Gillispie of Iowa City, Iowa. The jury ruled the Gillispies had placed Bain in a false light, invaded his privacy and profited from his likeness when they sold “Jim Bain Fan Club” shirts three years earlier.
2 — All – b, d (NFHS 3-36d-1; NCAA 8.2.4. 8.2.5.2; USA Softball 4-3D-1, R/S 15; USSSA 5-4D)
3 — All – c, d (NFHS 3-3-6d; NCAA 8.2.5.1, 8.2.5.2; USA Softball 4-3D, R/S 15; USSSA 5-4D)
4 — All – a, b (NFHS 3-1-3; NCAA 8.3.2, AR 8-10; USA Softball 4-1A-1; USSSA 5-1B)
VOLLEYBALL
1 — All – c (NFHS 6-5, 6.5.2B; NCAA 13.2.4.2.4; USAV 12.5.2)
2 — All – a (NFHS 9-4-4b; NCAA 15.1.1; USAV 10.1.1)
3 — NFHS, NCAA – b (NFHS 11-4-1; NCAA 11.3.5.1); USAV – e (17.1.1)
4 — NFHS – c (10-4-3d); NCAA – e (12.3.1.2); USAV – d (19.5.1)
MISSION
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.
• A report in The Milwaukee Journal indicates the NBA is considering hiring Dee Kantner as its first female referee. Two years later, the NBA would hire Kantner, already a decorated college official, alongside Violet Palmer. Officially the second woman to referee an NBA game, Kantner remained with the league until 2002.
20 YEARS AGO … 2005
• Former MLB umpire Nick Colosi dies. An NL umpire from 1968-82, Colosi worked two World Series (1975 and 1981), three NL Championship Series (1970, 1974 and 1978) and two All-Star Games (1971 and 1980). After retiring from the field, he served as an umpire supervisor from 1990-94, sat out the umpires strike in 1995, and then was rehired from 1996-98.
10 YEARS AGO …
2015
• Longtime NBA referee Bennett Salvatore retires. An NBA official for 33 years, Salvatore worked nearly 1,800 regular-season games. He also worked 25 NBA Finals games, including the last game of the NBA Finals in 1997, 1999, 2004, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
Gonna Miss You When I’m Gone
What are the odds the only magazine dedicated to sports officiating would be located in my adopted hometown? And that as a part-time sportswriter for the local daily newspaper, I would be assigned to write a story about its 20th anniversary? And because of that task I would be introduced to the management?
Retirement beckons and I have answered.
To lengthen the odds even more, what are the chances the magazine’s editorial staff would have an opening a month later and I’d be invited to fill it?
Right place, right time? You better believe it. Timing is everything, and now is the right time for me to leave it behind. Retirement beckons and I have answered.
What a ride it’s been over the last 29 years. This job took me to places I could only have imagined. Innumerable games at pro and major college stadiums and arenas. The Super Bowl. Both the Women’s and Men’s College World Series.
But more than that, it’s been the people. Oh, the people! I got to meet and pick the brains of so many incredibly talented officials from the pro, college and amateur ranks. Their ability was exceeded only by their generosity and graciousness. No two of their stories were alike, but they did
share one characteristic I picked up on very quickly. The truly best officials are also the most humble. They share their knowledge and the keys to success; they don’t flaunt them.
I leave behind memories galore. I’m extremely proud of the hundreds of books, newsletters, videos and other projects I helped produce. There is no thrill like seeing your name on the cover of a book you toiled over for months.
I’ll always remember Monday mornings during football season, when the officials in the office gathered in the hallway to swap stories from their weekend games. I will never forget when a bunch of them surprised me on a freezing November night to attend my final game at Camp Randall Stadium. They were there for me on the three worst days of my life — when I lost my mom, my dad and my daughter. When times were at their worst, my co-workers were at their best.
I’ll miss finding my work station festooned with confetti, balloons and other decorations on a milestone birthday. I’ll miss the company potluck lunches at Christmas and the parking lot tailgate parties when spring finally arrived to southeast Wisconsin.
There is now and has been some impressive officiating horsepower on the staff. I’ve worked with a Triple-A baseball umpire, a FIFA World Cup soccer referee, a Big Ten football replay official, an NCAA Division I softball umpire, an NCAA Division I basketball referee and two NCAA Division I baseball umpires. A great many state championship and tournament officials have worked here as well.
The current editors are all experienced referees and umpires. They live the officiating life every day. The content they churn out smacks of expertise because they know the subject matter. Their passion for the craft extends beyond the games they work.
Same with our freelance writers. I was lucky enough to have a cadre of
prolific writers outside the building with impressive officiating resumes whose work enhanced the magazine’s pages all these years. The quality of photography we get from freelancers also improves each year.
Our graphic artists, client services representatives, sales force, office managers, data analyst, comptroller, video producer and marketing specialists are tireless workers and team players. Not all of their efforts show up in print, but without them there would be no Referee and NASO.
Some people who were very important and dear to me left us far too soon. I think of them often and am grateful they assisted me in various ways. I pray they have found peace.
I’ve avoided naming names here for fear I’d omit someone. The one exception I’ll make is publisher Barry Mano. Thanks to his ingenuity in creating Referee and NASO, I was able to put down roots after years of bouncing from one unsatisfying job to another. Barry’s vision and stewardship continue to leave fingerprints not only on this company but on the industry as well. He’s been more than an employer. He’s been an advisor, support system, collaborator and colleague. My appreciation, respect and admiration are boundless.
Officiating is more difficult now than at any time in history. So many people are trying to find any flaw or weakness in our work. It takes a special kind of human being to do what we do. You need all the help you can get. I can assure you Referee and NASO will be here to give it to you.
Alas, the time of our parting has arrived. Thanks for sticking around, not just for this column but for the last 29 years.
I leave you with a verse from a song by Randy Newman. “I’m a better man than I was before. Knowing you has made me strong. And I sure am gonna miss you when I’m gone.”
Jeffrey Stern was Referee’s senior editor. He officiated high school and college football and high school baseball. *
Do you have a personal officiating story to tell?
Send your story or queries to lastcall@referee.com
IT’S OFFICIAL
June 2025
Officiating Industry Leaders Highlight Summit Program
For the first time ever, the Sports Officiating Summit is headed to the state of Alabama. This year’s event, to be held July 27-29 at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, features a theme centered around leadership. Attendees will hear from some of the brightest minds in the industry and explore better ways to develop, direct and defend officials in all sports at all levels.
The program features something for everyone. Whether you’re a governing body administrator, a supervisor or coordinator, an association leader or an official at any level, this is an event you will not want to miss.
The sports officiating industry event of the year kicks off Sunday night, July 27, with the Grand Opening and social gathering. Attendees will hear from NASO Board Chair and 11-time NCAAW Final Four referee Lisa Jones. Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) leaders will also welcome attendees to the host site, led by AHSAA Director of Officials Ken Washington.
All attendees will benefit from the opportunity to participate in Monday morning workshops exploring narrowly
focused hot topics in officiating. Small group conversation rooms will be led by NASO board members, governing body leaders, officiating supervisors and coordinators. Discussions will be directed into a clear picture of how to lead in developing, directing and defending officials in today’s climate.
Some of the most innovative and forward thinking organizations in the officiating world will be featured during the Innovation by Invitation session, which has become the “Shark Tank” for officiating. Education, training, assigning, and technology will be among the topics featured in the fast-paced, information-rich presentations. Each organization/ company is making an important contribution to the officiating industry and dreams are fleshed out in detail at this session you will only see at the Summit.
One of NASO’s key benefits provided to members is the Member Information & Consultation Program (MICP) and it will come to life on stage at the Summit. Real-life situations, all broken down by sports officiating legal and liability experts, will highlight critical issues in officiating and provide guidance to officials and
leaders alike. Alan Goldberger, sports law attorney; Don Collins, retired commissioner of the California Interscholastic Federation-San Francisco Section and legal expert; and Jina Doyle, American Specialty Insurance senior vice president, will field questions and topics voted on by attendees and break down legal and liability situations and solutions.
New to this year’s Summit is a professional presentation by experts Randy Novak and DeLano Morgan all about respect. Leadership in officiating hinges on how individuals treat themselves, their crewmates, staffs, participants, leadership and associations. Measuring the character of a person is most revealing during times of challenge and controversy, and
this session will help attendees appropriately reflect about their attitude toward respect.
The always popular “Referee Voices” returns to the Summit stage Tuesday afternoon. This session can tug at the heart strings as officials and leaders share their personal stories under the bright lights. These stories will give attendees insight and allow them to share, think deeply and connect on what is important in officiating.
The Summit wraps up with the Celebrate Officiating Gala, sponsored by Fox 40 International. It’s a night to celebrate those who have given so much to the officiating industry. Debbie Primeaux Williamson, the Southeastern Conference Football Officials Association and Patrick Kepp
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, Je rey Stern, Brad Ti rington, Sco Ti rington, 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, DeWi , 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 Foxcro , Hamilton, Ontario, Special Adviser
*Barry Mano, Racine, Wis., Special Adviser
*Non-voting members
NASO MISSION STATEMENT
e mission of NASO is to:
• Serve members by providing benefits and services.
• Improve o ciating performance through educational programs.
• Advocate opportunities for o cials and engage in programs to recruit and retain o cials.
• Create alliances with organizations that benefit from healthy o ciating programs.
Whether you have participated in every Summit in the past or have never had the opportunity to attend, this year’s event will be a must-see experience.
will accept the Gold Whistle, Mel Narol Medallion and Inspire Award, respectively, the evening of July 29.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude and so humbled because of the great respect I have for NASO and the good work done by many in and through this organization,” said Williamson. “The definition of grace is unmerited favor and much grace has been extended to me over many years by my Lord and yet again with this
amazing honor. Thank you, NASO, for the impact you continue to have on my life and that of thousands like ‘us’ who just want to serve well.”
Whether you have participated in every Summit in the past or have never had the opportunity to attend, this year’s event will be a must-see experience. Sign up today and learn more about the sessions, the speakers and all there is to do in Montgomery at sportsofficiatingsummit.com.
Mel Narol Medallion Awarded to SECFOA
The Southeastern Conference Football Officials Association (SECFOA) has been selected by NASO to receive the Mel Narol Medallion, awarded annually to a person or organization who has made significant contributions to NASO, the betterment of sports officials and advancing the officiating profession.
The Medallion is named after longtime officiating legal advocate and NASO leader Mel Narol. The award was created in 2000 to recognize an individual or group who contributed to the betterment of officials and the profession and it was awarded posthumously to Narol in 2003 and renamed in
his honor. Criteria was changed to emphasize contributions to NASO specifically.
Contributions considered in the selection process include organizational leadership, education, training, promotion of officiating, service to NASO and sponsorship.
SECFOA joins Fox 40 International (2004), Marriott Corporation (2012), California Basketball Officials Association (2014), American Specialty Insurance (2017), and the National Football League Referees Association (2023) as the only organizations to receive the Mel Narol Medallion. In addition, 18 individuals have received the award.
Over 100 individual officials, all of whom are NASO members, are part of the SECFOA. The association represents, educates, trains and celebrates football officiating for the Southeastern Conference. In 2011, NASO offered group membership to college football conference staffs for the very first time and the SECFOA was the first college conference staff to enroll its members. It has done so every season since.
“The SECFOA represents the best of what college football officiating is all about,” said Bill Topp, NASO president. “Since day one, SECFOA and NASO have stood together to provide conference officials the premier membership package and benefits. We look forward to celebrating with the group in Montgomery and to sustaining a strong partnership for years to come.”
The Mel Narol Medallion will be presented by NASO to representatives of the SECFOA at the conclusion of the Sports Officiating Summit in Montgomery, Ala., during the annual Celebrate Officiating Gala sponsored by Fox 40 on July 29.
“Many years ago, as the officiating landscape began to change, the SECFOA saw the perfect opportunity to team up with NASO to provide liability protection for our members while, at the same time, promoting sports officiating and developing sports officials nationwide,” said Randall Kizer, SECFOA president. “These last 15 years have resulted in a great partnership that we look to continue into the future. We are honored to be the 2025 Mel Narol Medallion recipient and look forward to joining our colleagues from across all sports in Montgomery this summer to accept this award.”
Mel Narol Medallion Award Recipients
In chronological order, here are the previous Mel Narol Medallion recipients:
2001: Jerry Seeman
2003: Mel Narol (posthumously)
2004: Fox 40 International
2005: Dick Honig
2006: Marcy Weston
2007: Bill Kolbe
2008: Ed T. Rush
2009: Ronnie Carter
2010: David Dodge
2011: Alan Goldberger
2012: Marriott Corporation
2013: Gary Whelchel
2014: California Basketball Officials Association
2015: Patty Viverito
2016: Don Collins
2017: Drew Smith and American Specialty Insurance
2018: Bob Kanaby
2019: Mike Pereira
2020-21: Steve Shaw
2022: Jim Host
2023: NFLRA
2024: Ernie Yarbrough
By Bill Topp, NASO President
The 2024 Annual Review allows us to reflect on and share the important happenings with your association.
The National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) is a 501(c)(3) Wisconsin not-forprofit corporation. We are headquartered in Racine, Wis. NASO’s mission is to:
► Serve members by providing benefits and services, ► Improve sports officiating performance through educational programs and training materials,
► Advocate opportunities for sports officials and engage in programs to recruit and retain officials,
► Create alliances with organizations that benefit from healthy sports officiating programs, and
► Enhance the image of sports officials.
We ended 2024 with 29,927 members, an increase of 918 members from 2023. One of the key drivers for growth over the last decade has been group memberships. In 2024, we ended up with 109 groups. The most heartening aspect of group membership is that it reflects NASO as a whole. The groups come from all sports and all levels, just like our individual members. We have groups as small as 25 and as large as 9,000 and everything in between. We have become the melting pot for all officials and go beyond what some would consider “mainstream” sports.
You need no greater example than the sports of tennis, sailing, pickleball and rowing coming into the NASO family via group membership. Welcome!
We are also proud of our partnerships with college football officiating groups. All BCS college officials — and some FCS conference staffs — are part of NASO group membership. We were able to be creative and present some unique offerings to them. We are grateful for their continued support.
Groups get the benefit of ensuring that all their members are well educated and well protected, with the added bonus of reduced membership prices. NASO gets the benefit of a larger pool of people coming into the association, with less attrition and lower renewal costs. Win-Win-Win for the group, individual officials and NASO.
NASO continues to be at the forefront of combating the nationwide officiating shortage and advocating for increased legislative efforts. We provided support for and contributed to dozens of media requests last year. Legislative activity is robust, with more than 10 states proposing protection bills in 2024. New Hampshire passed a law aimed at protecting sports officials from assault, becoming the 22nd state with such current legislation. (Years ago, it would not be uncommon to have little to no activity for a calendar year.). NASO engages in all of them. We provide data, local association and state association support, written testimony, video testimony and even attend and participate in in-person hearings when necessary. It is
State of the Association 2024
worthwhile work for the entire industry.
The 2024 Sports Officiating Summit in Atlanta was a success. The numbers are impressive: 100 Summit Support Organizations, more than 425 Summit attendees, 73 different speakers and presenters, covering 14 educational sessions, breakout groups and social events, and 1,700 officials registered for Officiate Georgia Day. The work does not end on that final day. The educational content gleaned is disseminated throughout the industry via the magazine, the websites and social media throughout the year. And equally heartening is knowing the professional relationships developed at the event also grow and evolve throughout the year. The demanding work by our staff and host state association proves worth it for years to come. It has truly become the industry event of the year. We are well on our way planning and executing the 2025 Summit in Montgomery, Ala. We are looking forward to bringing the spirit and energy to a first-time host state!
We entered into a unique partnership with the NCAA DIII Commissioners Association. The goal is to provide resources and support for D-III conferences, coordinators and officials to grow the ranks of D-III officials. We are especially excited about it because we have nine staffers that either currently officiate or have officiated at the D-III level (some in more than one sport). The D-III experience is personal to us and we look forward to helping them.
Some of that help is related to our Say Yes to Officiating campaign and content, coupled
with our Game Savers program. Both provide resources to help people get started in officiating and help navigate the officiating pathways. Game Savers is our direct-contact mentoring program. When someone contacts us for help, we put them in contact with one of our Game Savers — an NASO member and/or local association that will contact the person directly to help get them started. That individualized touch helps with retention. We could use more
organization is done by REI at its headquarters, utilizing every one of its full-time employees, plus many freelance writers and photographers.
Last year REI’s management fees hovered close to 27% of revenues. Industry averages run from a low of 30 percent to a high of 40 percent of revenues. It is easy to see that our management team and support staff provide NASO with unique, effective and efficient service at a cost well below industry standards.
“We wake up every day for you and the officiating industry. We take considerable pride in it.”
Game Saver mentors around the country. If you are interested in helping, please visit the Say Yes to Officiating website and click on the Recruit & Retain tab.
Our NFHS relationship continues to thrive, strategically and spiritually. With most of our members officiating at the high school level, it is imperative that NASO and the NFHS remain closely aligned to better serve high school sports. We are doing just that on a regular basis. In fact, we appreciated the opportunity to speak at the NFHS Summer Meeting, highlighting our joint efforts. The state associations and high school sports officials benefit directly from this relationship and we are grateful for it.
NASO is managed by Referee Enterprises Inc. (REI) under the direction of the NASO Board of Directors. NASO has no employees, equipment or offices. The work of running the
The relationship between NASO and REI continues to be a true partnership.
Our balance sheet strength at the end of 2024 made strides after some challenging years due to the pandemic. We have no lenders’ debt. Our current assets are 120% greater than current liabilities. Our cash position has remained solid.
Our preliminary-audited Profit & Loss Statement for 2024 showed a gain of $22,231 against revenues of $3,172,462. That was an increase of more than $11,526 from 2023. We had an excess of dues revenue over direct membership costs of $94,085, while indirect membership expenses totaled $542,624. In summary then, membership dues covered all direct membership costs and a portion of indirect costs. The remaining indirect costs were covered by other revenue sources including proceeds from the Summit and
the association’s reserves. Note: NASO board members and special advisors serve without compensation. That has been a policy approved by our board at the very founding of the association in 1980. (And it is pretty cool when one of your board members is the white hat for the Super Bowl! Congrats, Ron Torbert!)
We are a non-profit association. While the goal is not necessarily to put a lot of money in the bank, we strive to increase revenue and opportunities so that we can invest more into our membership via benefits and services. It takes a healthy bottom line to do that. We are charged with finding additional revenue sources to help us accomplish those goals. Our mission reinforces those efforts. The cost of doing business has rapidly increased over the last few years with not much end in sight at this point. In trying to keep membership dues manageable while maintaining and growing our industryleading benefits and services, we must find additional resources to make it all work for you and for us. We recently hired Teall Property Group, experts in revenue generation, sales and fundraising, to meet and exceed our goals. TPG already works with many national groups (such as the NFHS and NIAAA) and state associations, so we hope to see synergistic opportunities in our future.
We wake up every day for you and the officiating industry. We take considerable pride in it. We thank you for your continued support and your confidence in us. And, as always, if you need anything from our dedicated staff, board members or me, please reach out. We are here to serve.
From the Chair Why You Should Attend the Summit in Montgomery
By Lisa Jones
An unforgettable experience in my officiating journey occurred in 2009 when I attended my first NASO Sports Officiating Summit in Tucson, Ariz. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I quickly discovered I was surrounded by some of the most passionate, dedicated and knowledgeable officials from across the nation. I met people from various sports, levels and backgrounds — all united by a common goal: to improve/elevate officiating.
A major highlight of that Summit was meeting Mike Carey, former NFL referee #94, who made history as the first African American to serve as the referee (or “white hat”) in a Super Bowl. I had read about him in Referee magazine, so when I found myself sitting next to him in a session, I was beyond excited. Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable, but he was also kind, approachable and encouraging. That moment left a lasting impression on me — it inspired me to keep growing, learning and striving to be the best official I could be.
Fast forward to today, and I now have the honor of serving on the NASO board, sitting next to another Super Bowl referee, #62 Ron Torbert, the white hat of the most recent Super Bowl. This full-circle moment reminds me just how impactful the Summit
can be. I hope my experience encourages you to take advantage of this opportunity and join us in Montgomery, Ala., from July 27-29 for this year’s industry event of the year. Why should you attend? Here are just a few reasons:
1. Learn From the Best
The Summit gathers some of the greatest minds in officiating — legends who have worked at the highest levels of their sports. Whether you officiate high school, college or professional sports, you’ll have the chance to participate in sessions led by the best in the industry. Their insights, experiences and lessonslearned can help you grow in ways you never imagined.
2. Be Inspired
There’s something powerful about hearing firsthand accounts of what it takes to succeed at the highest level. The stories you’ll hear from top officials will educate and inspire you to push yourself further. Whether you hope to move up to the next level or refine your craft, the motivation you gain at the Summit can be a gamechanger.
3. Network for Success
The officiating community is a close-knit group, and relationships matter. The Summit provides a unique opportunity to connect with officials from all over the country — people who can offer guidance, share experiences, and open doors to new opportunities.
Whether you’re just starting or have been officiating for years, networking at the Summit can be invaluable to your growth and success and the growth of your officials association.
4. Invest in Yourself and Your Career
As officials, we often focus on developing our rule knowledge, mechanics and judgment. However, true growth comes from engaging with others who share our passion. Attending the Summit is an investment in yourself, your career, and the future of officiating.
5. We Want You There
You are the present and the future of officiating, and we want to connect with you. The relationships you build, the knowledge you gain, and the inspiration you take away from the Summit can shape your officiating journey in ways you never expected.
We look forward to seeing you in Montgomery, Ala., for an incredible experience. Make the commitment to be there — you won’t regret it.
Lisa Jones, of Salt Lake City, has been a women’s Division I college basketball referee for more than 20 years, including 11 Final Four assignments, and a former WNBA official. She is also a retired Deputy Chief of the Phoenix Fire Department and retired Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at the Phoenix office.
Bylaw Rules for Business
By Scott Tittrington
If you have ever been involved with an officiating association, you have certainly attended an association meeting where there has been a mention of bylaws. How should we conduct this vote for officers? According to the bylaws. How should we determine the process to increase dues? Consult the bylaws. How do we amend our way of doing business? Check the bylaws.
secretary or treasurer? That should be in the bylaws.
There are several rules that need to be presented and followed within a group’s bylaws to address association business. Here are some of the “musts,” according to charitylawyerblog.com, that associations should include in their bylaws to function properly.
Structure of governance: Is your association a for-profit business, or a nonprofit entity? That needs to be spelled out in the bylaws. Also, is the association board driven, with the general membership holding limited rights, or is it member driven, with the membership having voting privileges to elect and remove those who are on the board?
Directors’ terms: Most associations are member driven, meaning elections are regularly held to elect a board. How long is the term of office for leaders? Are all of the terms successive or staggered? Staggered terms offer some continuity on the board, allowing it to continue to effectively function while new directors are getting up to speed.
Officers: It is important to clarify who the officers are, whether they are elected or appointed, the length of their duties and how they are replaced. What is the role of a president,
Voting procedures: Your bylaws must say how votes are to be handled. Is the board, elected by the membership, the only body that will vote? Or will the general membership vote on all items? Is a majority of the membership all that is needed to make an amendment? A majority of the members who actually voted? A super-majority of more than 66 percent instead 50 percent? Are votes conducted in full view of the association or by secret ballot?
Committees: Associations must determine how committees can be created and abolished, and what degree of authority they hold. What type of business may committees conduct versus actions that must be performed by the board? If a committee is created to look into increasing pay for the group’s officials, is the committee’s conclusions a recommendation or a mandate?
Amendments: Bylaws are a living, breathing document, just as with any constitution. Therefore, the bylaws must spell out how they can be amended, whether
ASSOCIATION
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it’s through the board or the membership, and again, what voting procedure must be used. This is where the concept of a super majority comes into play — rather than allowing a majority to be enough to amend bylaws, a two-thirds vote is needed.
The goal of writing strong bylaws is to ensure they never become the center of controversy. It’s human nature that members are never going to be in complete harmony. Actions are going to be taken and business is going to be conducted in a manner that is not preferred by 100 percent of the association.
So, how are conflicts going to be handled? The answer will be found in the bylaws, and will allow any good association to operate smoothly by focusing on the content of the discussion (higher fees, meeting/testing requirements, a change in the the board) rather than the mechanics of the decision-making process.
Scott Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee and officiates college and high school baseball, as well as high school basketball and football.
a focus on training, assigning, legal issues and best practices specific to local officials association management.
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NASO’s newest group member is the National Association of Collegiate Rowing Officials (NACRO), whose members referee regattas for college crews during both the spring sprint season and the fall head race season.
The initial signup comprised 110 members but Laura Kunkemueller, president of NACRO and commissioner of the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA), says the Boston-based group continues to grow.
“The whole purpose is to provide trained referees for the collegiate space, because the collegiate context is a little different from juniors or masters,” Kunkemueller said. “The IRA invested in (NACRO) to get it started. There was a need for an organization independent of the IRA or NCAA to provide referees for the collegiate level.”
As with most sports, rowing referees are charged with ensuring safety, fairness and good athlete experience. “We’re always trying to enhance those,” Kunkemueller said. “There are eligibility questions, safety aspects of equipment, and procedural elements of our role, but our primary job is to ensure that each athlete has the opportunity to have their best race”
Kunkemueller said the benefits of NASO membership were obvious. “NASO is the clear leader in the areas of insurance and support,” she said. “I don’t know the percentage, but most of the referees I work with on a regular basis were NASO members on an individual basis and have been for years. For me, it’s been a couple of decades.”
Rowing Referees Join NASO
“I think adding another group that’s not from a mainstream sport shows the reach of our organization,” said Ken Koester, NASO chief business development officer.
“It shows we have coverages and benefits that go beyond ‘normal’ sports. To work with another national governing body is a huge feather in our cap.”
Make a Difference!
Become an NASO Game Saver
There’s an urgent need for sports officials in this nation. By becoming an NASO Game Saver you are helping to get and keep new officials in the games we all love.
NASO Game Savers lead officiating prospects through the beginning stages of becoming a sports official in their local area. Getting started can be overwhelming without proper guidance. Game Savers make it easier by connecting recruits with the right people, groups, leagues and assigners, and
guiding them through the process toward becoming an official and working games.
Go to naso.org/gamesaver to participate. Fill out the available form and when NASO is contacted by someone interested in becoming an official in your area for the sports you selected, we will reach out via email. We won’t share your information — unless you tell us to.
Your support can make the difference between someone giving up and someone thriving as a new official. Step up today!
Studies prove that the best way to get and keep o cials is through one-on-one contact with other o cials. Sports o cials who are willing to help recruits are needed.
NASO Game Savers are established o cials who are willing to help guide o ciating prospects through the process of becoming a sports o cial in their local area and chosen sport(s) by pu ing them in touch with the right people, associations, leagues and assigners, and leading them through the necessary steps toward becoming a registered o cial.
sports section What Now, Mr. Popular?
By Scott Tittrington
We spend a lot of time as officials pontificating about how to handle the many troublesome hurdles we encounter in this avocation: low pay, sub-standard locker rooms, abusive fan behavior, etc.
But just as important is knowing how to handle a good problem. Case in point — how do you navigate the issues that come with being an official who is in demand? Specifically, how do you keep assigners happy when everyone wants you to come work for them, but there is only one of you to go around?
Perhaps never before in the history of sports officiating have the officials themselves enjoyed the type of leverage they do now. It’s no secret there’s a shortage of officials across all sports. This has, in turn, created a growing pool of officials who have multiple assigners fighting for their services. If you’re one of these officials, what should you be doing to make sure you work the best schedule to suit your own personal needs, while also trying to keep all of your various suitors happy?
The first key is open and honest communication. Whether you are a strictly high school varsity official being tugged in more than one direction by competing assigners, or an aspiring college official having to tap dance with your availability
at both levels, you need to make sure all parties understand who you are working for and where your priorities lie.
Are you reserving certain days of the week for certain assigners? Will you only work college games on weekends? Make sure your assigners understand your own personal assignment parameters, and then if something changes with the ground rules you have established, immediately communicate with the affected
Also, what happens when you need off on a specific Tuesday for your child’s school play, or a particular Saturday because you and your spouse have planned a weekend getaway? Give assigners the information and tools they need to make their job easier. Nothing creates greater peace of mind for an assigner and greater trust between an assigner and an official than the former knowing that when he or she makes an assignment,
Perhaps never before in the history of sports officiating have the officials themselves enjoyed the type of leverage they do now.
parties. You should always work to mitigate the types of surprises that create extra work for the people who control your schedule.
The next important piece of the puzzle is making sure your availability calendars are accurate and up to date. Yes, you’ve already told Assigner A that he can have you on Tuesdays and Fridays, and Assigner B that she can use you on Thursdays and Saturdays. But remember, your assigners have had conversations and correspondence with dozens, if not hundreds, of officials who have shared similar information.
it will be accepted and fulfilled without the official causing any headaches.
A third important factor is actually making yourself available to work and not stringing along a particular assigner if there is no interest on your end. Maybe you don’t want to travel 75 miles on a weeknight to work in their conference. Maybe their conference pays significantly less than the others in which you work. Maybe you have conflicts of interest with certain teams or coaches who you might run into.
Again, this is where honest communication comes into
IT’S OFFICIAL - JUNE 2025
play. Rather than hemming and hawing and perhaps providing false hope that this will be the year where you take some games, you owe these assigners an explanation for why you are not a good fit for their needs and no longer want to be considered. They will appreciate you saving them the work of trying to find a way to fit you into their schedule.
A final important factor to consider is understanding which of your assigners have your best interests as an official in mind.
Just as there are good and bad officials, there are also good and bad assigners. The good ones will recognize you are in demand and will work with you to make sure your schedule works for all parties. The good ones will also do everything they can to enable you to work a higher-level assignment if the opportunity comes calling, understanding that nothing makes them look better than cultivating officials who are in demand.
Conversely, you will run into assigners who are only concerned about their needs. They try to guilt you (or even worse, threaten you) if they know you are working for anyone else. They don’t care that a college assigner wants to give you a shot — you agreed 12 months ago to work their game and they are going to hold you to it.
Even under the best of circumstances it’s sometimes a struggle to keep multiple assigners happy. But once you run into the type of assigner listed above, you have a choice to make: Do you continue to work for that person or not?
If you make the decision to cut ties and focus elsewhere, do so the correct way. Inform the assigner that you wish to
no longer work for him or her. Honor your commitment to any assignments to which you have already agreed to work for that particular assigner. And avoid the temptation to badmouth that assigner on your way out the door. Word travels fast in the officiating business, and while you may not be the person at fault for the deterioration of that particular official/assigner relationship, you don’t want to get a reputation as an official who is difficult to work with. Scott Tittrington is an associate editor for Referee. He officiates college and high school baseball and basketball, and high school football.
Ignoring proper mechanics creates unnecessary confusion. In one College World Series game, an umpire failed to rotate correctly, leaving the play at home plate to be called from 90 feet away. In another case, a veteran umpire refused to rotate to third base because he didn’t want to run, which forced the younger umpires into incorrect positions. These situations hurt crew effectiveness and can damage an umpire’s credibility.
BASEBALL
Out of Position, Out of Luck
By Jon Bible
Mechanic breakdowns happen at every level of officiating. When umpires are out of position or unsure of their responsibilities, it leads to confusion, missed calls and credibility issues. This guide aims to help umpires recognize and correct common mechanics mistakes while reinforcing the importance of following prescribed mechanics.
Common Issues Leading to Mechanics Breakdowns
1. Lack of Awareness or Willingness to Follow New Mechanics
Some umpires don’t know the proper mechanics, while others refuse to use them. The reasons vary:
• Some umpires are set in their ways and resist change.
• Others find new mechanics physically demanding.
• Some believe their way is better and refuse to adjust.
2. Inexperience in Larger Crews
Many umpires primarily work two-umpire crews. When they suddenly switch to three- or four-umpire crews, mechanics mistakes are more likely to occur. The challenges include:
• Learning new positioning and responsibilities.
• Adapting to crew rotations that aren’t second nature.
• Working with unfamiliar partners.
Mechanics breakdowns happen when umpires have to think about their positioning instead of reacting instinctively. The more complex the system, the harder it is to execute without extensive practice.
Solutions
for Common Mechanics Issues
1. Simplifying Mechanics for Better Execution
In high-pressure situations, simplifying mechanics can improve execution. For example, in a three-umpire crew:
• Keep U1 (first-base umpire) stationed at first base.
• Have U3 (third-base umpire) shift to the C position with runners on base.
• Keep the plate umpire home as much as possible.
This system minimizes movement while ensuring all plays are covered. Yes, it’s not
by-the-book mechanics that take umpires years to master. But it is a simplified adjustment that can serve as the fundamental premise for a crew of three working with umpires unfamiliar with three-person mechanics. The important part is that the crew has to communicate before the game to be on the same page.
2. Handling Trouble Balls in the Outfield
Umpires in two-person crews rarely go out on fly balls, but with three or four umpires, they must adjust. Problems arise when:
• Multiple umpires hesitate, leading to no coverage in the outfield.
• Two umpires commit at the same time, causing overcoverage.
To prevent confusion, crews must designate a “quarterback” who makes the call on whether to go out. The rest of the crew adjusts accordingly. Knowing who the quarterback is before the game helps avoid last-second uncertainty.
3. Avoiding Over-Hustling
Umpires often feel the need to show effort, but unnecessary movement can create problems.
In a three-umpire crew, U1 doesn’t need to charge in on a routine base hit — just take a few steps and stop.
Over-hustling can lead to poor angles, collisions or interference with play.
The key is to move with purpose rather than running aimlessly. Trust the mechanics and focus on being in the best position instead of moving just for the sake of movement.
4. Using Signals to Prevent Confusion
Clear communication is crucial to successful mechanics
execution. Umpires should use prearranged signals to:
• Indicate who is covering third base on potential plays.
• Clarify which base umpire is taking responsibility for an outfield fly ball.
• Remind each other of their responsibilities between pitches.
Pregame discussions should emphasize these signals so that the crew reacts smoothly and confidently when a tricky situation arises.
Final Thoughts
The best umpires are those who commit to following prescribed mechanics, communicate effectively and adjust their movements based on the game’s needs. When mechanics are followed correctly, the crew functions as a well-oiled machine. By focusing on consistency, communication and smart positioning, umpires can reduce breakdowns and make more confident, accurate calls.
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.
SOFTBALL
Take Your Time
By Referee editors
It’s funny. We have heard so much lately about games taking too long and how do we help speed them up. We’ve even written guides on ways to speed up your game and keep a good pace. But in reality, a lot of the complaining comes from the higher levels because games aren’t fitting nicely into the two-hour window a certain four-
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IT’S OFFICIAL - JUNE 2025
letter network wants them to fit into.
However, at the lower levels, where games aren’t constrained by advertising dollars, there isn’t necessarily a “rush” to get games finished in a certain amount of time — except in travel ball tournaments where tournament directors expect games to stay on schedule. So while the majority of time we preach about moving games along and keeping a good pace of play, this article is going to explain one situation where you don’t want to speed things along and where you need to take your time — tracking conferences.
terrible job by the plate umpire, but there is no repercussion since the plate umpire didn’t do their job.” Needless to say, the defensive head coach was not happy and was given a long leash to vent her frustrations.
Because of scenarios like this, the NCAA recommends and some conference assigners require all umpires on the crew to track conferences so there are no mistakes and there is no confusion that could potentially lead to a protest.
write down the better, so if there is a question about when a conference was taken, you can quickly look at your card and explain to a coach all the details.
It doesn’t matter which code you are working, you are responsible for tracking charged conferences. The reason for doing so is you want to make sure no team is gaining an advantage by being allowed to have extra conferences in excess of what the rules allow. Failure to accurately track these conferences can lead to some chaotic things.
For example, one time in an NCAA D-III Regional tournament, a team took backto-back offensive conferences in the same half-inning. The plate umpire did not write either conference down on his lineup sheet and did not notify the head coach of the offensive team that she had been charged a conference. By rule, she should have been ejected for holding a second offensive conference in the same inning. The other team’s head coach protested, saying the offensive team’s head coach should have been ejected. A phone call was then placed to the secretary-rules editor for the NCAA and it was explained to her that the plate umpire did not write down the conferences and never notified the coach. She responded, “Well, that is a
At the non-NCAA level, the plate umpire should be tracking all conferences. If the base umpire(s) wants to as well, there is no harm in it. Some base umpires like to do that so it keeps their focus. Either way, the umpires who are tracking conferences must do so either on the lineup card or on a conference tracking card. Never try to keep track of them in your head.
The one thing all umpires who are tracking conferences must do is take their time. Often, a base coach may quickly call their batter down to give a sign or relay some information and it only takes a few seconds. However, umpires need to make sure all pertinent information is written on the lineup sheet or conference tracking card before putting the ball back in play. It is imperative we take a few extra seconds to mark which team took the conference, what inning, was it offensive or defensive. At some levels, we also are required to write down the jersey number of the batter, how many outs there are and the location of runners. At the college level, we also track player-to-player conferences so it is important to know which players were involved in those. Remember, the more information you can
We’ve all been in situations when the players are ready before we are and we feel like we are holding up the game to write the information down. So we may either not write it down on our card right away and think we will at the end of the half-inning or we don’t write all the information down and just jot a couple of notes. Then the half-inning takes a while to end and we forget to notate everything. This is why it is so important to take your time in the moment, clearly and legibly write down all the information and then make the ball live again only when we’ve completely filled out our paperwork. Remember, you may end up having a halted game and whatever information you write down may get passed on to another umpiring crew who finishes the game at a later date. Make sure they have all the correct and accurate information to do so.
Many umpires don’t think tracking conferences are that important. However, they should be treated the same way you treat lineup changes. They all can have an impact on the game and failure to do so properly can lead to major problems and potentially lead to protests. It is better to delay the game an extra 10 seconds to write everything down than to rush to get the game going again and forget to accurately handle these situations. The players, coaches, fellow crew members and your assigner will appreciate the extra delay to make sure you are diligently filling out your paperwork.
SOCCER
No
Time for Advantage
By John Van de Vaarst
“The referee shall refrain from penalizing in cases in which they are satisfied that by doing so an advantage would be given to the offending team” (NCAA 5.4.3). This is a clear definition of applying advantage which is part of the game of soccer. So, if this defines when to apply advantage, when should a referee not use advantage and stop play? There are several scenarios when advantage would not be appropriate. The following examples are not all inclusive but provide a guide for a referee when deciding whether or not to apply advantage.
The referee allows play to continue when an offense (foul, handball, etc.) occurs and the non-offending team will benefit from the advantage. The referee should not apply the advantage. This may include any of the following: in situations involving an ejection (red card) offense; serious foul play; violent conduct; and/or offense requiring a second yellow card, unless there is a clear goalscoring opportunity for the nonoffending team.
Play 1: A1 is moving forward with the ball. Approximately five yards from the play, B2 strikes A2. Ruling 1: Although A1 retains possession, the referee should stop the game and eject (red card) B2 for the violent conduct offense.
Play 2: A3 is approximately 35 yards from the goal when B2 grabs A3’s shirt. A3 retains possession but is moving toward the touchline, not the goal. Ruling 2: In this case the referee should not apply advantage and stop the game and caution
(yellow card) B2 for the shirt grab. There is no real advantage since A3 is moving toward the touchline. Also, by stopping play, the referee will eliminate the potential of retaliation on B2 by A3 or a teammate.
For safety, security or game management, for example when: a player is seriously injured; there is a risk of a reaction/ confrontation; and/or the match atmosphere means the referee should take immediate disciplinary actions.
As a game progresses, the referee realizes that there are more fouls being committed. Both teams are becoming aggressive and the referee can sense that the situation will escalate and there could be potential for serious fouls or injuries. The referee should lessen the use of advantage and call more fouls to let both teams know that the behavior will not be condoned.
Play 3: B2 appears to be injured. Team A retains possession and begins to move forward. B2 does not attempt to get up. Ruling 3: In this case, the referee should stop play and have the athletic trainer attend to B2. There is a potential for a concussion and the referee should not continue play during this type of injury.
Play 4: B4 recklessly attempts to trip A3 who stumbles but retains possession. The referee observes A5 running toward B4 and it appears there will be retaliation. Ruling 4: The referee should stop play, award the direct free kick for the trip and caution B4 for the reckless attempt. This will eliminate the retaliation and assist in game control.
When there is no real benefit for the non-offending team (position of the offense/ball/ teammates/opponents etc.), for
example: the non-offending team is in or near their own penalty area and/or under pressure; an opponent starts fouling (holding, pulling, etc.) a player inside their penalty area and the foul continues outside the penalty area; and/or when a free kick in an attacking situation (e.g. close to the opponents’ penalty area) is more beneficial than allowing play to continue.
license to commit fouls and not be penalized.
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.
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At lower levels (younger ages) there is no real advantage to allow play to continue when a player is fouled near their own penalty area. They still have over 90 yards to go to get to the goal. It is unlikely that a scoring opportunity will develop as a result of the advantage being applied. The referee should stop play and award the free kick for the foul. This will greatly assist in game control. This type of play should not result in advantage until the game is being played at a very high level and the players expect advantage and the ability to continue play.
Play 5: B3 fouls A3 inside their own penalty area. A3 retains possession and moves outside the penalty area in an attempt to create space for a pass or possible shot on goal. Ruling 5: There is no real advantage here since if the referee called the foul the result would be the awarding of a penalty kick for team A. A greater advantage is allowing team A to take the penalty kick.
The proper application of advantage allows the game to flow and the players to exhibit their skills. It makes the game much more enjoyable for the fans. However, misapplication of advantage or allowing too much advantage will result in retaliations and loss of game control. Advantage is not a
and play is resumed at the point of interruption, which is team B’s original throw-in (4-10.1.c.1, 4-10.2, 9-4.3, 10-4.1.i). In NCAAW, the result is a player/substitute technical foul charged to A2, and team B shall receive two free throws and the ball for a throw-in at the division line (4-9.1.g, 4-9-2, 10-12.4.g).
BASKETBALL
Touching Ball During a Throw-in
Play: In the first half of the game, team A receives a warning after A1 reached through the boundary plane, but did not touch the ball, during team B’s throw-in. Later in the game, during team B’s throw-in, A2 reaches through the boundary line and touches the ball while thrower-in B3 is holding the ball. Does this result in multiple technical fouls, since a team A player reached through the boundary line after team A had been warned, and a team A player touched the ball while it was out of bounds during team B’s throw-in? What kind of technical foul(s) shall be assessed and how many free throws result? Ruling: Although team A had already been issued a warning for delay, when A2 reached through the boundary plane and touched the ball while B3 was holding it during team B’s throw-in, the infraction is a single act, and only one technical foul for A2 touching the basketball shall be assessed. In NFHS, the result is a player technical charged to A2, and team B shall receive two free throws and the ball for a throw-in at the division line (4-471, 9-2-10, 10-2-1c, 10-4-10, 10.4.10D). In NCAAM, the result is a class B technical charged to A2, team B shall receive one free throw,
BASEBALL
Right Turn, Right Call
Play: B1 beats out a slow roller down the third-base line and turns to his right after overrunning first base. He is tagged by F3 before returning to first. Ruling: B1 is not out unless he does not return immediately or attempts to advance or feints to second (NFHS 8-2-7; NCAA 8-5i Exc.; pro 5.09b11).
Running Into No Trouble
Play: With R2 on second and running on the pitch, the batted ball gets by F5, who was playing in to defend a possible bunt, and contacts R2. F6 is not in a position to make a play on the ball. Ruling: The ball stays live and in play (NFHS 8-4-2k; NCAA 8-5k; pro 5.06c6).
Stay or Return
Play: There is one out, and Abel is on second base. Charles is the proper batter, but Daniel is batting in his place. Daniel reaches first base on an uncaught third strike that gets by F2. Abel advances to third. The defensive team appeals the batting out of order. Ruling: Charles, the proper batter, is called out. Daniel is removed from first base and becomes the proper batter. Abel remains at third since he advanced on a passed ball (NFHS 7-1-1, 7-1-2 Pen 4; NCAA 7-11a2; pro 6.03b 3, 4).
FOOTBALL
Receiver Out of Bounds
Play: A1, an eligible receiver, is pushed out of bounds by B2 while running his pass route. A1 runs 25 yards down the sideline out of bounds before returning to the field of play and catching a legal forward pass by A3. Ruling: In NFHS, A1 must return to the field of play as the first opportunity after being blocked out of bounds by B2. Since he delayed his return and advanced 25 yards before coming back to the field of play this results in a foul for illegal participation. The penalty will be enforced 15 yards from the previous spot and team A will replay the down (9-6-1). In NCAA, eligibility is lost by going out of bounds, unless the offensive player immediately returns inbounds after going out of bounds due to contact by an opponent. The contact by B2 caused A1 to go out of bounds, but A1 did not immediately return to the field of play so he commits a foul for illegal touching. The penalty is enforced as a loss of down at the previous spot (7-3-4).
Free Kick Formation
Play: Team K is lining up for a free kick. K1 places the ball on the tee and backs up seven yards behind the ball. K2 is standing right next to the ball when K1 begins his approach. K2 then kicks the ball off the tee with three teammates to his left of the formation, six to his right and K1 directly and five yards behind the ball. Ruling: In NFHS, team K commits a free kick infraction for two reasons. First, it is illegal for any player except the one who is more than five yards behind the restraining line to kick the ball. Second, at the time the ball is kicked, team K must have at least four players on either side of the kicker (6-1-3b, 6-1-4). In
NCAA, team K commits a foul for illegal formation for the same two reasons (6-1-2b, 6-1-2c-3). In both codes, team R may elect to enforce a five-yard penalty before rekick or add five yards to where the dead ball belongs to team R (NFHS 6-1 Pen.; NCAA 6-1-2 Pen.).
SOCCER
In the Way
Play: A1 is moving toward the goal and pushes the ball forward and attempts to move around B2 to regain possession of the ball. B2 then moves in front of A1 and slows to almost a stop. The ball was not within playing distance since it was played forward. Ruling: The referee is to stop play and award an indirect free kick for team A. B2 impeded A1 since the ball was not within playing distance (NFHS 12-3-4; NCAA 12.3.2.2; IFAB 12.2).
Foul From Behind
Play: A1 is moving the ball forward within team B‘s penalty area and has an obvious goalscoring opportunity. B2 comes from behind and uses excessive force to tackle A1 from behind.
Ruling: The referee stops play and awards a penalty kick for team A. B2 is ejected for using excessive force when making the tackle. The penalty is not lessened to a caution for DOGSO within the penalty area. The more severe misconduct is the punishment (NFHS 12-6-1f1; NCAA 12.7.9 Violent Conduct I; IFAB 12.3).
Barely Offside
Play: A1 has the ball in the defensive third of the field. Team B players have all moved up in attempt to gain control of the ball and move on an attack. A2 is standing on the halfway line and their upper body is leaning into team B’s half of the field. A1
plays a long ball and A2 breaks to gain possession. Ruling: The play should be stopped for offside. A2’s body was in the opponent’s half of the field and the time the ball was played (NFHS 11-1-1; NCAA 11.1.2; IFAB 11.1). NOTE: It is imperative that the assistant referee be in proper position in order to make the proper decision on this incident.
SOFTBALL
Two Conferences?
Play: In the top of the second inning, the third-base coach requests time to talk to her batter and runners. During this time, the defensive pitching coach comes out of the dugout to relay a quick message to her pitcher at the pitcher’s circle. Both coaches end their conversations at the same time and return to their respective positions. Ruling: In all codes, a conference shall be charged to the offensive team only. The defense should not be charged a conference, provided they are ready to play and don’t delay the game once the offensive conference concludes (NFHS 3-7-3; NCAA 6.12.4; USA Softball 5-7, R/S 9; USSSA 4-8c-3).
Look Back?
Play: With a runner on second base, the pitcher has control of the ball in the glove in the pitcher’s circle. The runner returns to second base. The pitcher then steps to the back of the pitcher’s circle and her left foot completely steps outside of the circle, but her right foot remains within the circle. The runner on second runs safely to third base. Ruling: Legal play in all codes. Once a pitcher’s foot is completely outside of the pitcher’s circle, runners may advance at their own risk and are not guilty of a look-back violation (NFHS
Play: Team B has used both of its timeouts for the first set. Late in the set, team B’s coach requests another timeout, which results in the team’s third timeout for that set. Ruling: NFHS rules assess an unnecessary delay sanction in that situation, whether or not the second referee acknowledges the request (11-2 Pen. 2). There is no automatic penalty point associated with that sanction unless an unnecessary delay warning has already been assessed to the team. In NCAA and USAV rules, provided the second referee has not whistled to recognize the request for a timeout, an improper request
will be assessed to the team during the next dead ball (NCAA 6.2.2.8; USAV 15.11.1.4). However, if the request is recognized with a whistle, a delay sanction must result (NCAA 6.3.2.2; USAV 16.1).
Playing Ball in Bench Area
Play: A1 passes a ball poorly, and it sails toward the team A bench. A2 attempts to save the errant pass. A team member seated on the bench stands up and moves a chair so that A2 can make the save without running into the chair. A2 contacts the ball while standing within the bench area where the chair was located. No part of A2 is touching the playing area when the ball is contacted. Ruling: A2 is out of bounds since the bench itself, as well as the area between the bench and score table, are nonplaying areas. A2 could have legally played the ball, even if it
was above the team bench, if A2 was in contact with the playing surface at the moment the ball was played (NFHS 2-3g, 2-4-2; NCAA 1.1.3.2, 4.1.2; USAV 9).
Legal Centerline
Play: The referees review the court and playing area upon arrival at the facility. They notice that the centerline is not a continuous, uninterrupted line. The middle portion of the centerline passes through a logo painted in the center of the court. In that area, the centerline is shadow-bordered and is not the same color as the rest of the line. Ruling: Legal in NFHS and NCAA as the rules permit a shadowbordered line provided the centerline is clearly visible (NFHS 2-1-4 Note; NCAA 1.2.2.2.3). USAV rules require that the centerline must be a solid, uninterrupted line (1.3.1, 1.3.3).
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