Sportsmanship

1. Sportsmanship

2. Sportsmanship   It’s unfortunate that we ever have to be “police” on the field – but it does happen.  A game with bad sportsmanship can sometimes make for the worst games to officiate.  I believe that sportsmanship should be a required class for parents, athletes, coaches and officials.   In my opinion playing  and/or winning with respect for yourself and the other team is really how sports should be played.  Behind player safety – sportsmanship is key for officials to monitor. • Sportsmanship should start with • players • parents • coaches • Many times we see and hear coaches and parents pushing the thought that ‘winning is everything’.    I am not saying that this is always the case – but if coaching staff does not control their players when these situations happen, the officials will have to keep a tight lid on this or it will cause issues during a game.  I agree that a team should always try their very best to win each and every time they participate – however having respect for other players is also very important. • Bad sportsmanship is one thing that can cause a game to get out of control.  So as an official it is very important to watch for actions that can lead to issues on the field: • Taunting – celebrating after a score or long play • Late hits – in or out-of-bound plays – but especially out-of-bounds plays • Possible fighting, physical contact or name-calling • Keys for officials • Excessive celebration:  control this by flagging celebration when it happens.  Flagging it sends a message to players that it will not be tolerated. • Out of bounds play:  Communication before the game, and during the game and worked in a wedge.  The back judge is always helping the line judge or head linesman – by angling in to a play to help control any activity on the sidelines; especially when a single player goes into the other sidelines’ bench area – help get the player out of that situation and watch all activity as a group of officials.

3. In bounds play:  watch for the late hits and control this right away.  Do not tolerate this ever.  Keeping this controlled can help keep a game in check. Communicate to the captains and  coaches if you have any late hits.  Give a coach a player’s number and ask the captain and coaches to help control their players. Side line warnings:  many officials tend to let this go.  If you have a problem with your sideline/coaches – be firm but fair.  Warning  and flagging the sideline early in a game can usually make for a better sideline. Parents out of control:   – yes parents have the right to ‘get into the game’ and yes we do make mistakes as officials.  But if a parent is way out of control – ask the coach or inform the AD that a parent needs to be controlled or removed.  Do not be afraid to do this.  This is typically not an issue at a varsity game – but at lower level games it can be many times. Lastly:  fighting of any kind can never be tolerated.

4. Officials Safety • These guidelines apply to all levels of football • When ever possible, meet in the parking lot prior to the game and ALWAYS park near each other. • When ever possible, walk onto the field together and ALWAYS walk off of the field together. • ALWAYS make sure that your brother official gets into his car and his car starts before leaving each other. • ALWAYS make sure there is an EMT / Trainer present and dedicated to the game you are working, an EMT / Trainer being split between games is not acceptable. This is a violation of MIAA Ruling 69.2 • If the EMT / Trainer Leaves the field the game MUST be STOPPED until they return or a qualified replacement is in place.