Referee Duties

Below is a list of proactive duties for referees to ensure the proper gameplay and decorum

Pregame

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before the game start

• Verify that the pool setup is correct - this includes goal height, goal-line/2M/5M/6M/half-line markers, any lane lines, etc.

• Ensure that goal netting has no holes and that the game balls (minimum # of 3 for each game) are properly inflated

• Provide yourself with a clear area to walk during the game from goal-line to goal-line

  • • 1. • This means team benches and chairs should be behind the goal-line to allow a good angle for the referee to call a goal

  • Perform a nail check on players

  • Briefly introduce yourself to each coach in a professional manner

  • Confirm duties of the score table - Game Clock / Shot Clock / Score Sheet / Exclusion Flags

    • 1. • Make sure that the game secretary has populated the scoresheets with the rosters of the teams involved

  • Discuss areas of coverage with your partner referee (see Game Fundamentals), e.g.:

    • 1. • How is P4 being covered?

         • On a 6-on-5, who is covering the post (2, 3) positions?

This proactive effort will prevent headaches during the game.

During Gameplay

• • Apply the rules as written and interpreted

  • Maintain focus on play

  • Collaborate with your partner

  • Look and act professional

    • 1. • As a rule, a referee should not be using their cell phone on deck at any time during or immediately after a game. You are being paid to oversee the entire game, so your time should not be divided between the game and being distracted by your cell phone. Cell phones may only be used for contacting a partner referee who is running late, contacting PAWPRA officers about issues, or looking at the NFHS Rule Book app, e.g., but overall, use good judgement.

Between Quarters/During Timeouts

• • Check in with your partner

    • 1. • Discuss how the game is going, areas to focus on in the pool, safety concerns, etc.

  • Verify that the scoresheet is in order

    • 1. • Pay particular attention to (e.g., counting) the goals scored by each team and the number of personal fouls for each player. If necessary, delay the start of the next period to correct errors on the score sheet.

Player Safety

• Keeping players safe is the most important responsibility for referees.

• Watch the players carefully as they exit the pool after each period, when a timeout is called and at any stoppage of play.

• Watch the players when they shake hands at the end of the game.

• At least one referee should have “eyes on the pool” at all times. If one of the referees is busy taking care of other matters (e.g., checking with the table), the other referee must be watching the pool. 

Postgame

• • Remain on deck for 5 minutes after the game, for any protests and incidents that fall under referee jurisdiction.

  • Review the scoresheet and confirm final accuracy by signing (example)

  • Report any incidents using the reporting form

    • 1. • Yellow cards, red cards, misconducts, protests, serious injuries