Game Day Resources

Pre-Game Preparation

Officials are expected to arrive prepared and professional.

Before Leaving Home

• Confirm assignment in Assignr

• Check weather and field location

• Pack full referee kit (primary + alternate jersey if applicable)

• Bring whistle, watch, cards, coin, flags (if AR), and match report materials

Arrival Standard

• Arrive 20–30 minutes prior to kickoff (youth)

• Arrive 30–45 minutes prior (high school)

• Introduce yourself to partner(s) and site supervisor

Pre-Game Conference (Crew Discussion)

Center leads a brief pre-game discussion:

• Signals and mechanics

• Foul recognition expectations

• Offside responsibilities

• Bench and sideline management

• Substitution procedures

• Communication expectations

Professional Appearance

• Official uniform clean and tucked

• Black socks pulled up

• Black shoes

• No visible jewelry

• Confident body language

Consistency builds credibility.

Game Management Priorities

Control

• Set tone early

• Address dissent calmly and directly

• Use voice before cards when appropriate

Positioning

• Anticipate play

• Maintain optimal viewing angle

• Stay mobile

Communication

• Clear signals

• Strong whistle presence

• Professional interaction with coaches

Sideline Standards

The Third Team expects:

• Respectful communication

• Immediate response to irresponsible behavior

• Zero tolerance for abusive language

• Proper documentation of cautions/ejections

If an issue escalates:

1. Address coach directly

2. Issue warning

3. Remove individual if necessary

Be decisive and calm.

Weather & Safety

• Monitor lightning and severe weather

• Follow league suspension guidelines

• Player safety always supersedes schedule

When in doubt: Stop play.

After the Match

• Confirm final score

• Submit match report (if required)

• Log incidents promptly

Professionalism extends beyond the final whistle.

• We will continue to add match materials in this area. 

• IFAB's Laws of the Game: Link to the Laws which keep the game fair – this is a crucial foundation of the ‘beautiful game’ and a vital feature of the ‘spirit’ of the game.

• IFAB's Laws of the Game Changes Link: IFAB's changes to the Laws of the Game for the current season.

Additional Resources