USL COC Newsletter 3/20/06

[Sonny]

US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER 3/20/06

From Warren Kimber:

Having observed a dozen or more games it is necessary that we all pay strict attention to our mechanics in the following situations. During face offs, the official putting the ball in play when he brings the players together and says "Down" is to stand so he is looking straight down on the ball with one hand up in the air and the other at his side and then blow his whistle starting the play. The other two officials are to be up to the restraining line on the center line, if possible looking straight down the line. The players should establish their positions first then you yours. If one player from each team is right up to the center line you may step back several feet to look down the line. Once you have assumed your position you are to remain there without moving. When the play starts you are to assume your next position depending on where the ball goes.


If you are the lead official in settled play you are to be on the goal line extended. If the ball goes toward the sideline behind you, you are to remain facing the goal and the trail official is to cover the plays that might occur behind you. From the far side as well as the goal line, if a player with the ball goes to the goal with the ball in his possession follow him. When you are the goal line official and a shot is taken run toward the end line to be sure you have the correct positioning to make the call. If the ball becomes loose behind the cage and is being contested by both teams the goal line official is to cover the play and the far side man is to move to cover the goal line. When you are the far side man and a player with possession of the ball goes toward the goal line, follow him quickly and be in position to cover whatever may occur in the goal crease area.

Another important point to always think about: when the ball is loose and a number of players are attempting to gain possession of the ball, get the ball up.

Eric Evans
Secretary
Collegiate Officials Committee

[laxfan25]

All good things to cover in your pre-game. I know there is some grumbling about the insistence on all refs being up on the line at the faceoff. On a real fast break it can leave you woefully out of position. Of course, there are always Warren's e-mails, and then there's the reality.