Referees (whether they are Head Refs, Back Umpires or side line Judges) and Players are not much different in many respects:
Fear of Screwing Up - We don’t want to “drop the ball” that negatively affects the game’s outcome. For example, a player drops the touchdown pass. The same applies to referees. The referee who missed a tag or missed seeing a foul on the game winning play. As player or referee, we all want a good game and feel we did our best.
Same Action Viewed Differently - Unlike the NFL with 20 to 30 camera angles, every individual has a different view of the action with no intricate slow motion review. The more referees watching from different angles, the higher chances that the action will be seen correctly. Conversely if only two referees are doing the game, there is a high chance the spot or the in/out-boundary will be incorrect. Even a player 40 yards down field might not see the same as a teammate 5 yards away from the action.
Just Seems that Way - Why is it that when a rusher’s tag is missed and not called, it results in a big play for the other team? Why is it when the one time the QB doesn’t snap the ball in time, it is the referee’s fault for not calling out the 10 second warning?
Nobody is Perfect - I don’t know any person or team that has a perfect game – every throw is completed or every foul is seen.
Everyone is Human - Judgement decisions are constantly being made. Again, we cannot go “upstairs” for the replay.
Understanding of the Complete Game - A player or a referee who has performed both roles has a more comprehensive understanding of the game. A player understands that he might or might not get a favourable call or spot. A referee recognizes he cannot see everything all of the time. Have some tolerance. The correct call might not be made. Also, just because a player is not refereeing doesn’t mean he does not know the rules. Players who have been around have a good understanding of the rules and its application. They might just need to be aware of any new rule changes but don’t under-estimate their knowledge.
Work Life Balance - When you think about it, we are out on the field for fun. In comparison to your personal challenges in your life, how important is a missed tag or a dropped ball?
Develop through Experience – Players want to improve their game and that’s why they practice and strategize plays. The more they play the game, the better they get. The referees too study their playbook called the Touch Football Rule and Casebook and continually encounter new situations during the game. As the referee becomes more experienced, they are better prepared to deal with those situations. We hustle because we impact the game.
Treated with Respect – In most sports, you shouldn’t embarrass the referee by a big confrontational tantrum. Rather than berating the ref in front of all, sometimes a conversation to the side is more effective in getting your message across. The referees do not criticize the quarterback when he or she overthrows his receiver or a defender dropping a sure interception, do they?
Enjoy the Game – As much as players like making great plays, I think the referees equally enjoy watching fantastic catches and defensive plays; they have the best seat in town.
Lifelong Sport – I have been playing this game for over 30 years and reffing for over 20 years. I know I have lost many steps over the years (it’s called “aging”) but I still come out and give it my best against today’s younger, faster, taller and skilled players. Why? Because I still enjoy the game. For how long? The current Rulebook includes Wheelchair Football so, who knows? There are many players in our League who have been playing for most of their lives. They must be doing something right.
Touch Football is a great game! Have Fun! Respect each other!