Newcastle Coalfields Rugby League Referees Association

Coaching Guidelines for 2010

Produced by John Fahey

Referees Operations Manager

The following Guidelines have been designed for use by the Newcastle & Coalfields Referees Association & are not in any way proposed to replace the applying of the Laws of the Game as required.

The Guidelines have a two fold purpose:

·        Firstly they are intended to assist Referees & Touch Judges applying the rules in a consistent & practical manner, whilst providing Goals to attain. i.e. How to Present Scrums, Control of the Play the Ball, Positioning etc. Also included are notes of advice in the handling of situations that may occur during the course of a game, both on & off the field of play.

·        Secondly to assist Coach Match Officials when evaluating Match Officials performances by following a consistent approach provided through the Guidelines. 

In addition:

1.    Assisting in understanding what the Referee is endeavouring to accomplish.

2.    Evaluating how situations are approached.

3.    Identifying areas that require Coaching. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS                                                                 Page No

Areas a referee’s game is based on......                                                                       3

Starting a Game......                                                                                        3

Scrums....                                                                                                         3

Tackle Identification........        Dominant                                                         4

                                                Surrender                                                        4

Non dominant/ Neutral                                                5                      Separation at PTB                                                5

Standing in Tackle                                           6

Play the Ball                                                                                                    6

Tem Metres                                                                                                      7

Positioning                                                                                                      7

Sin Bin and Dismissal                                                                                      8

Bad language                                                                                                  8

Communication                                                                                                           9

Cautioning                                                                                                       9

Quick Restarts                                                                                                 10

Dangerous Throws                                                                                          10

Kick downfield                                                                                                 11

Interfere PTB                                                                                                   12

Backchat and Sledging                                                                                                12

All in Brawl                                                                                                      13

Blood Bin                                                                                                         13

Trainers Coaching                                                                                           13

Interchange of Players                                                                                                13

Trainers in Scrum                                                                                            14

Coach/ Official verbal abuse                                                                           14

Mini/ Mod                                                                                                        15

Referees Performance Reports                                                                         15

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR AREAS A REFEREE’S GAME IS BASED ON??

There are three major areas that will assist a referee’s performance:

1.    Ability to make decisions on the Laws of the Game at speed.

2.    Communication during the game in all forms – whistle, body language, demeanour, player contact and other officials.

3.    Positioning – the ability to read the game and move effectively at all times.

Having said that, there are areas we can work on as referees whether we are doing Under 7s through to the NRL.

STARTING A GAME:

You are to be at your ground at least 30 minutes prior to your kickoff time. The times listed on the appointments and the program are the KICKOFF time, not the time to get teams out of the dressing shed, not the time to inspect gear or do the toss it is KICKOFF time so ensure the teams are asked out of the sheds with ample time (3 or 4 minutes prior to kick off). This may assist to keep games on time and you spending unwanted time at football.  The Touch Judges should check the gear up to 30 minutes before but as they may already be on field, the referee should fulfil this requirement in accordance with Laws Note 4 (d). This is to be carried out in all ages. 

SCRUMS:

Þ             Stand packs apart (approx. 1 to 1.5m)

Þ             Ensure they are bound correctly

Þ             Have both Front rows bend their backs

Þ             Move the pack with the loose head up, binding with the opposition holding the mark, ensuring near side props have their OUTSIDE leg forward.

Þ             Half back at centre of tunnel & facing square, ball fed immediately as packs lock together with the ball in both hands when fed.

Þ             Time out is not to be called just because any 6 players race to form a pack. If a team is definitely wasting time, then call time out. BE CONSISTENT first minute to 80^th minute.

TACKLE IDENTIFICATION

Note: It is the sole responsibility of the referee to adjudicate on the tackle.

DOMINANT TACKLE DEFINITION

• When the ball carriers momentum is propelled backwards towards his own goal then the tackle is DOMINANT.
• Defenders are permitted to lever themselves up of the ball carrier.

Referee’s Vocabulary – Dominant Tackle

Note: When defenders are required to move off the tackle the referee will call ‘STAND UP’

SURRENDER TACKLE DEFINITION

Note: It is the sole responsibility of the referee to adjudicate on the tackle.

• A SURRENDER tackle will be called if:

1.    The ball-carrier surrenders his run IN or AT the line.

2.    Spears in at the hips of the defending player.

3.    Spears into the space between two defenders.

Note: If a SURRENDER tackle is called the defender/s may:

1.    Lay on and spin to the front of the tackle.

2.    Move to a position known as the "Bear Hug".

3.    Work the player on the ground

When working the player on the ground defender/s are not permitted to do this by using the ball carriers head or neck as a lever. This will be deemed a GRAPPLE TACKLE.

       Referee’s vocabulary – Surrender

Note: When defenders are required to move off the tackle the referee will call ‘STAND UP’

NON DOMINANT or NEUTRAL TACKLE DEFINITION

Note: It is the sole responsibility of the referee to adjudicate on the tackle.

• If the attacking player's momentum is still moving towards the opponent's goal line when a tackle is being performed then the tackle is deemed neutral. 
• The referee will allow more time for a low defender to release the legs of the ball carrier. This tackle is still classified as non dominant and the defender MUST release on the referee's call of Movement.
• The ball carrier may be penalised if he commences to kick out with his legs.                 Referee’s vocabulary - “MOVEMENT or Move”

NOTE: When a referee calls on a defender/s to move the intent of this movement is to immediately move away from the ball carrier.  The defender cannot:

a)   Spin on the ball carrier to an advantageous defensive position.

b)   Multiple defenders “peeling” off the ball carrier.

c)   Climb back over the ruck.

d)   Use any other tactic or means to attempt to slow the play-the-ball

SEPARATION AT THE PLAY THE BALL

Note: It is the sole responsibility of the referee to adjudicate on the tackle.

• Once a tackle is deemed to have been effected, the player in possession has the right to play the ball without interference.
• The defender similarly has to be afforded the right to remove himself from the tackle without being handled by the player in possession.
• At the time prior of the playing of the ball, the referee may call “hands” or “separate” which will advise players involved that there is to be a clear and total separation whilst the ball is played.

STANDING IN TACKLE

§  Once the Referee has called “HELD” the attacking player is to be released immediately to play the ball.

§  If the ball-carrier is then pulled to the ground or another defender joins the tackle after the tackle has been called, a penalty is to be awarded to the attacking team.

§  If the ball carrier offloads the ball after the tackle has been called a penalty is to be awarded to the defending team unless the referee deems it to be simultaneous in which case he will form a scrum.

§  Once the ball carrier has one leg off the ground and is lifted and carried the referee will call “Held” immediately.

§  The referee will take momentum into account when the tackle consists of HIT and DRIVE as opposed to a lift and carry.

NOTE: It will be deemed that the ball carrier has succumbed to the tackle.

Referee’s Vocabulary – Held or Release

PLAY THE BALL:

Þ             Stand apart [no contact after completion of tackle & while ball is played] so there is actual SEPARATION.

Þ             Player must pick up ball & face square.

Þ             Foot must make contact with the ball [not rolled].

Þ             Need to take action on:

·                leg pulling

·                laying on the ball carrier

·                holding neck of jersey

·                late flops

·                placing hand on ball as carrier is rising.

TEN METRES:

Þ             Good ten metres

Þ             Do not allow players to move forward until ball clears ruck.

Þ             Watch for umbrella style defence.

Þ             Cut down penalties by moving smartly to trouble areas & communicate with players.

POSITIONING:

Þ             Scrum:

·                   When setting a scrum stand approximately a metre & a half from centre of tunnel.  Use your voice for control.

·                   Follow the play around behind pack NOT IN POSSESSION of the ball.

·                   Make sure your touch judges play a role in all scrums re positioning of defensive line.

Þ            Play The Ball:

·                Go to the ruck if you need to clear up problems.

·                When play is near the try line [approximately ten metres or closer] position yourself on the blindside of the ruck or on the try line past the 5/8 on the open side.  [It is important you display more urgency in this area as you need to be well positioned with a good view of ‘the short pass’ & ‘the offside’].

Þ            Ten Metres:

·                Position yourself past at least the 2^nd player [never in line with the ruck].

·                Be prepared to move smartly alongside players who need to be encouraged back to the ten.

·                You must move forward smartly at least one or two paces when the ball clears the ruck.  This is very important to the players as it gives them a guide when to move forward.

·                Stand one (nearest) foot forward at the ten using your peripheral vision while watching the ruck.

·                Use your touch judges to assist with defensive lines should you decide to go to the ruck.

SIN BIN:

To be used for:-

Þ             Professional Fouls

Þ             Minor Infringements

Þ             Dissent

Þ             Continually breaking the rules

·Procedure

*             First Penalty ... caution player

*             Second Penalty ... caution player with captain

*             Third Penalty ... Bin

Not to be used for send off offences i.e. Foul play like High tackles etc.

DISMISSAL:

Do not over react in this area.  However if you have determined player/s have committed a serious breach under the Misconduct rule they are to be dismissed immediately.

BAD LANGUAGE:

Action is to be taken immediately against players who express their feelings with a loud outburst of obscenities.  Spectators and their children are NOT to be subjected to this unnecessary behaviour.  Penalise the player in the presence of the Captain.

On that basis, at all times be aware of your own actions in this area.

COMMUNICATION:

It is most important you earn and retain respect from players and officials.  Along with consistency you must communicate and treat them at the same level you expect to be treated.  Always exhibit a non-threatening manner.

Þ             NEVER talk down to them

Þ             Always state why a penalty has been given

Þ             If a Captain asks about a decision [in a proper manner] then explain it to him, but don’t get into extended discussions or allow him to use this as a time wasting or rest getting period for his players.

Grid for when players approach us:

Authority –            Make sure we are aware of how we come across – body language, breathing, how we gesture, posture.

Listen -                 Focus on person and show respect.

Acknowledge -      Gesture and body language show you understand.

Reinforce -            Position captain around what the problem is.

Move On -            Position yourself on the field where play is going to restart and end conversation.

Grid for when we call out players:

Deliver -                Preparation, tone, breathing, speed of conversation.

Objective -           Make topic clear and concise.

Position -              Make captain aware it is his problem to deal with.

Enforce -               Follow up consistently on objective you set.

CAUTIONING PLAYERS:

Referee

When you have reason to caution a player or players the following steps should be adhered to:-

Þ            Ensure you call the players/s concerned to you (Do not go to them)

Þ            Do not allow them to bend over or walk away while you are issuing the caution.  They must stand up and face you.

Þ            Do not wave your hands around when speaking to the player/s.

Þ            When you award the resulting penalty THEN indicate clearly what the penalty is for.

Þ            Most important do not hold a conversation with the player/s concerned, get straight to the point, award the penalty and get on with the game.

Þ            Ensure players do not interrupt your Touch Judge during his/her report.

Touch Judge

If you are adjudicating on the Touch Line and need to give a report to the Referee, the following procedures should be followed:-

Þ             Do not go on to the field until the advantage has been played out.

Þ             When you have the Referees attention and he has stopped play, inform him why you are there and who are the player/s involved (this action gives the Referee early warning).

Þ             When the Referee has the player/s and Captain/s concerned together, then give accurate, BRIEF as possible and straight to the point report to the REFEREE, not the players.

Þ             IMPORTANT - Do not emulate any actions i.e. swinging arm, high tackle etc.  Keep your arms and hands still.  The Referee will give the appropriate signal when he determines what the decision will be.

Þ             When you have completed your report do not wait for the Referee to deliver the caution.  When he has acknowledged what you have reported immediately return to the touchline or if the Referee advises you, stand where the incident occurred.

QUICK RESTARTS OF PLAY:

Þ             From a Penalty, do not allow players to take this kick while you are still in the process of signalling what the penalty is for or cautioning.  However be alert and allow play to continue without undue delay.

Þ             Twenty Metres.  When a ball is kicked over the dead ball line, allowing the opposition a twenty metre restart, ninety percent of the time the ball is thrown back so quickly to restart the opposition are still up in the vicinity of the try line.  Referees are expected to use commonsense in allowing a reasonable amount of time for them to retire the ten metres, however ensure you are in position before allowing the restart.

If by chance there happens to be a couple of players showing no interest in hurrying back, then start the game ensuring those not retired do not interfere with play. In that instance, make a clear reference to the players involved and advise them to remain out of the play.

THE DANGEROUS THROW:

Many refer to this rule book terminology as a Lifting or Spear Tackle.

It does not matter what you call it, the real fact is, it is Dangerous.

If a player or players are responsible for executing a Dangerous Throw, whether or not the recipient is injured, it does not matter whether the receiver is driven into the ground, or released, or the tacklers hands are between the legs or not.

It is not acceptable that a player is dropped to the ground when tacklers have been asked to separate.

NOTE: Referees and Touch Judges should be alert in identifying this type of tackle at an early stage & attempt to take preventative action. This action includes loud clear communication not to lift.

KICK DOWNFIELD:

When the ball is kicked downfield, do not watch the flight of the ball.

You must:

Ø  ensure the kicker is not interfered with (especially theTJs),

Ø  observe the position of the players,

Ø  focus on the player attempting to catch the ball.

Ø  Referee is to enthusiastically make it to an area very close to the tackle of the catcher.

INTERFERENCE - PLAY THE BALL:

1.    When a player is effectively tackled, it is expected that the tackler/s release the ball carrier & allow him to rise without any assistance. Referees are to be alert to the overzealous defender who attempts to physically pull the ball carrier to his feet.

If a player is slow in rising to play the ball, there may be many reasons, one of which could be an injury. Interfering with a player if this is so, may compound that injury. If for any reason the ball carrier is not rising to his feet after being tackled, it is the Referees responsibility to initiate the appropriate action NOT the players.

2.    After a tackle has been completed, by one or more players, be alert for      attacking players rushing in to physically pull the tackler/s off the ball carrier. Here again it is NOT up to the players to determine whether or not they are slow in getting off the ball carrier it is the Referees. This in most cases has a tendency to further slow the play the ball.

3.    The ball carrier is to play the ball and in no way touch/interfere with the markers for the same reasons the marker does not touch/interfere with the ball carrier. They need to assist in SEPARATION at the PTB.

BACKCHAT:

Action must be implemented quickly on players who continually Backchat.

You cannot give the game your complete attention when players repeatedly chew your ear. Stop the game call the Captains over, advise them this type of behaviour will not be tolerated. Place the responsibility on their shoulders.

If you need to take further action, be FIRM but show respect.

SLEDGING:

Players sledging each other is an area that needs monitoring. Do not confuse this behavior with the general banter that goes on between players during a game.

The sledging in question is the type that may be of a personnel nature & has the tendency to become vicious & unmanageable if action is not taken early.

ALL IN BRAWL:

There are a couple of very important points Referees should observe if unfortunate enough to be officiating in a game involving an all in-brawl.

Firstly do not step in between players in an attempt to prevent further hostility.  Blow your whistle hard & step back allowing you to view all the proceedings. It is not only significant for you to identify the instigator/s, it is very important you watch for players who rush in & become involved escalating the circumstances. Touch Judges also must give support in these situations by observing intensely from an advantageous position, ensuring an accurate report can be delivered.

When the state of affairs is in control, be alert of any attempt to Interchange players, this is not permitted until you have made your decision.

BLOOD BIN:

If you need to send a player to the ‘Blood Bin’, ensure he leaves the field for treatment.  Do not hold up the game allowing the trainer to treat him on the field.

TRAINER’S COACHING:

Trainers on the field standing behind play issuing instructions to their respective teams is not acceptable.  Referees are advised to action this type of behaviour immediately by sending the offenders off the field of play.  If by chance it happens again then they are to be dismissed from the playing area.

INTERCHANGE OF PLAYERS:

·        Touch Judges are responsible for the Interchange. Ensure replacements are reporting to the Touch Judge prior to entering the field, do not allow trainers to make the decision on entry point and time

·        Ensure the player being replaced has left the field of play and the replacement enters the field in an onside position.

Players are not to be interchanged when you have ordered a scrum to be set.  Referees must take action and not allow replacements at this time.  Touch Judges should be alert to this situation and not allow players to take the field when the referee is setting a scrum.

TRAINERS IN SCRUM:

When you are setting your scrum do not allow Trainers to interfere, i.e. running in water while you are in the process of putting your scrum down.  Order the trainers away well before they get near the packs.  Also if a player goes to ground wanting attention and does not have a serious injury then move the scrum and get on with the game.

COACHES/OFFICIALS VERBAL ABUSE:

Coaches and Officials who choose to sit in the designated place within the playing area are NOT allowed to coach or verbally criticise Referees or Touch Judges.  If this happens you are expected to take the appropriate action, which is:-

Þ             Stop the game.

Þ             Have the Ground Manager report to you.

Þ             Inform him of the problem.

Þ             Advise him to remove the person/s responsible outside the fenced or roped off area.

If the Ground Manager cannot be found then you as the Referee should take the above action.  Remember you have complete control of the playing area.

Having said all the above, I remind you commonsense must prevail when evaluating these types of situations.  Do not over react and most of all do not let it interfere with your control of the game.

NEVER allow for a situation where your own actions can be scrutinised in these instances.

LEAVING THE FIELD

Ensure the Referee and Touch Judges meet up and exit the field together.

MINI /  MOD

Wait until first receiver GETS the ball before allowing defence and marker to move. Ensure in Mod marker is immediately and directly in front of PTB player and is SQUARE (not facing the way he intends to go)

The 5 metre rule is in place for International football up to and including Under 14s.

RULES

Read the rules (International and Mini/Mod) regularly

NOTE:  When you arrive at your appointed venue, contact the Ground Manager and introduce yourself.  This gives you the distinct advantage of knowing who he is and where he will be should you require his services. You ARE NOT TO start a fixture without a ground manager.

Referees Performance Report

As another part of taking up the role as Referees Operations Manager, I am also looking to put a simplified report in place which will provide clear areas of attention being required and competence achieved.

Referee Performance Assessment

Referee                                                Date

Match                          V                                             Overall Rating   

Grade                                                  Venue

Legend                       A         Excellent                                 B         Acceptable

                        C         Improvement areas noted     D         Unacceptable

Comments to be made for all marks below a B.

Rulings in General                          

Play the Ball / 10 Metres

General Play/ Communication       

Notes / Coaching Areas – markings of C or below numbered above and itemised here.

This is the major part of the process, and will be used along with a run sheet for points of discussion and a penalty grid which will be handed to the referee on the day.

Actual Assessment Sheet

You will notice that it is a simplified form.

·        We will come up with an overall rating in 3 areas of Rulings, Play the Ball/ 10 metres and General play/ Communication then an overall rating at the top of the form.

·        We move to an A-D format with A excellent and D unacceptable.

·        Comments need to be made at the bottom of the sheet if rating is a C or D, as clearly we need to assist/ work with the referee in this area.

·        Each category has an area for each half of football then an overall rating for the game.

·        Obviously, the overall rating remains at your discretion. The ratings for the 3 overall areas needs to reflect the marks given for the 5/6 categories in that area.

·        Separation in the PTB is a massive focus which will be outlined in referee download. Clear onus is on BOTH players to ensure this eventuates.

Run Sheet

We need to move away from these being simply a recording of what happens when in a game. The form has been designed mainly for comments. This is the form the Assessor will be concentrating on during the game with the Assessment Sheet filled in on the basis of information recorded on the Run Sheet.

Penalty Sheet

This document will take away the need for penalties to appear on a Run Sheet unless discussion is required OR patterns are emerging in a game. The Penalty Sheet will allow a referee to see where penalties are being given on the field and stat’s on what they are for.

Touch Judge Performance Report

Whilst we will continue to use the current forms, focus needs to be communication and teamwork being effective.

Discussion points should be noted on report and dealt with on the day in the debrief where possible.

I look forward to working with each and every member in 2010 and beyond in making NCRLRA the best Association we can be.