FCOCP

Level II
Clinic

Level II Football Canada Officials

Certification Program (FCOCP)
Purpose
To prepare Sideline Officials for assignments to the
Umpire position
3 and 4 Official Systems
Minor and High School Leagues
To improve/upgrade understanding of Sideline positions
Encourage further participation and progress in the
FCOCP

Certification Requirements
Participation at all clinic sessions
Minimum of 75% on Level II Exam
Pass practical evaluation of either
Sideline and/or Umpire positions
PASSING MARK 75 %

Be The Best That You Can BE

Watch the Tommy Bell video

Be the Best that You can Be
Complete worksheet Requirements of
a Quality Official

A Philosophy of Officiating
Have a positive attitude
Study and know the rules
Always hustle on the field
Be consistent in your performance
Give and demand respect (earn it)
Have a sense of humour
Be dedicated/committed
Work hard at developing officiating skills
Develop high standards
Show integrity

REVIEWING LEVEL 1
SIDELINE OFFICIALS
LESSON TWO

Control of Timer
Signals
Time Out
Who can wave time out?
Any Official

Time In

Is the Referee the only official who waves time in?

no
If not, who can and when?
An official covering the receiver of a kick off
All Officials and the Time Keeper must know?
Timing Regulations

Control of Ball Boys

1.
2

When should the ball be changed?

Change Ball on every play
Why?
Keep them in the game.

3. Where should the ball boys stand?

10 yards in advance of Line of Scrimmage

4. When should the ball bring the ball in?

After whistle, bring in new Ball, retrieve old ball

Bench Relationships
(Control and Communications)
With Players
1. You Gain Respect through?
(click for answer)

Knowledge
Consistency

2. Why different strokes for different folks

Role towards different age groups

3. Why and should you communicate through
Captains
Respect
Utilization of Captains as Leaders

Bench Relationships
(Control and Communications)
With Coaches
1.

Communication. When and how is direct communication

needed?
Use courteous and knowledgeable manner
Relaying messages to/from bench for Referee
Relaying foul information
When gates are up
2. Maintain Composure
Calmness, self discipline
Leadership role models (Officials/Coaches)

Bench Relationships
(Control and Communications)(3)
With Spectators
1. Should the official communicate with spectators?
No communication Do your job disregard spectators
Gaining respect of Spectators

2. Crowd Control, who is responsible?

Fans not to interfere with Game

Home Team management responsible for controlling the Fans
Fan removal from site

Duties and Positioning

Side Line Officials
LESSON THREE

Operation of Chain and Downs Box

1. When should the Head linesman review the Chain Crew procedures ?
30 minutes pre-game

2. On first down, where should the downs box and rear picket be placed?
The rear picket and Downs box together at the forward point of the ball, with the Downs box in
front

3.

Where is the downs box placed for second and third downs and when
should the down on the downs box be changed?
DB FWD PT change on HL s Signal after signal from Referee

4.

How should the chain be kept?

Tight

Operation of Chain and

Downsbox(2)
5. Where is the clip placed?
On the back of the back line

6. a) What should the yard stick crew do if the play comes

Drop Sticks

b) Why?
Prevent Injury

7. Does the chain move on 2 D & 3D

No it does not move

toward them?

Operation of Chain and

Downsbox(3)

Change of Quarter Reverse chain

Hustle
No discussion with Players, Coaches
After TD - 1 stickman setup KO (tee, ball)
- 1 Stickman retrieve convert
After Game Wrap Chain and Thank Crew

Duties and Positioning Pre-game

Field Duties-Head linesman
Measurements
1.Where is the clip placed?
Back of back line

2.Who picks up the clip and carries it in?

The rear picket

3.What does the Downs Box do during a measurement?

The Downs box holds PLS

4.Where should the Head Linesman position himself?

Place foot at the location of the front picket

Duties and Positioning Pre-game

Field Duties-Head linesman
Yard Stick Locations
1. Where are the yard sticks located if the
a) benches are on the same side of the field ?
Opposite team benches
b)

benches are on opposite sides of the field?

Alternate Home Team 1st half,
Visiting team 2nd half

2.Change of Quarter
Reverse chain

Hustle
No discussion with Players, Coaches
After TD 1 stickman setup KO (tee, ball)
- 1 Stickman retrieve convert
After Game Wrap Chain and Thank Crew

Duties and Positioning

Pre-game Field Duties (3)
Line Judge
Check Game balls
Check field conditions 30 minutes pre-game
Look for heavy taping, bandages, casts, etc
Advice Referee of your findings
Take game ball and kicking tee to Timers Bench
Both
Proceed to Timers Bench 5 minutes pre-game

Duties and Positioning

Kick-Off Duties (1)
Head Linesman
Position yourself on Sideline, at restraining line opposite
Team benches. (Opposite Timers bench if Team benches
on both sides).
Check Stick Crew is ready.
Count Home Team.
Check sideline is clear, Signal Ready to Referee,
holding arm aloft.
Direct nearest Captain's attention to Referees call for
Ready signal.
Watch for offside and possible short K.O., know if ball
went 10 yards

Duties and Positioning

Kick-Off Duties (2)
Be ready to signal time in on short K.O. only when
touched by Player.
Move down field protecting sideline. Do not go to
center of field, Be prepared to go out of bounds for
safety.
Watch for fumbles, laterals, or accidental forward
passes.
Watch for K.O. out of bounds in your area. Be
prepared to mark spot. Throw Flag, Sound Whistle
Watch Players going out of bounds
1st marking of downs box and rear stick should be H.L.

Duties and Positioning

Kick-Off Duties (3)
Line Judge
Position yourself outside deepest Receiver on side opposite
H.L.
Count Visiting Team.
Check End Zone is clear. Signal Ready signal.
When kicked ball is legally touched by Player, give time in
signal
Watch for fumbles, lateral, offside passes on hand-offs, or
accidental forward passes.
Watch for K.O. out of bounds. Mark spot. Throw Flag. Sound
whistle. Watch players going out of bounds.
Be ready to blow your whistle if kicked ball strikes goal post
assembly in flight

Duties and Positioning

Kick-Off Duties (4)
Both
Know last possession/touching of loose ball.
Watch for infractions behind and beyond
runner, if another Official has ball carrier.
If calling penalty, now if ball is in possession
or not, know point ball held or point of
possession and continue to officiate until
play is dead.
Kick off
chart

Duties and Positioning

Scrimmage Duties
Held and Free Signals and Positioning
Prior to Snap
Check side lines are clear.
Check for substitution.
Raise Gates when 2 or more Team A players
break huddle until Team A is set over ball.
Check Eligible receivers numbers
Check flanker and slot-back are back of Line of
Scrimmage
Watch for off sides and illegal procedure

Running plays side line officials duties

Click to start

If not covering
ball carrier, after
ball crosses line
of scrimmage,
angle in towards
play
Watch for fouls
behind Referee if
ball goes to
opposite side.

Start of play watch for possible crack-back blocking

Side
official
Watch for out of bounds. Sound whistle.
Signal Time Out. Mark spot. Watch
Players

Chart 4
man
running

Sideline coverage to end

zone
Hold out-of-bounds spot until
ball is retrieved and spotted.
Place ball on side line if
measurement is required

Duties and Positioning

Scrimmage Duties (3)
If play comes directly toward you, step toward attacking teams goal line and let
play go by and then try to stay even with the ball carrier, to mark forward spot.
Do not turn your back on play.
Watch fumbles and lateral passes. Know team in possession when ball is dead.
Be prepared to mark forward point of advance with out-thrust foot, with toe in
line with forward point of ball.

Pass Plays
Watch for pass interference, holding and
illegal use of hands
Watch for blocking down field before pass is completed.

4 man
chart
passing

Duties and Positioning

Scrimmage Duties (4)
FREE Official:
Be prepared to cover all deep passes.
Move off line on snap with Receivers.
Watch your sideline all the way to dead line.
Watch receivers for key as to when pass in
anticipated. Ensure Defender is playing ball.
Try to be in best position to judge the play.
Watch for Players going out of bounds.
Dont walk away form close decisions on pass
interference. Act quickly and convincingly

Duties and Positioning

Scrimmage Duties (5)
HELD Official:
Be prepared to cover short flat zone on your
side.
Must not move downfield unit pass is thrown.
Read play.
Forward pass completed behind Line of Scrimmage,
hold arm in air to signal Screen Pass

Be prepared to cover your sideline to dead line

Assist referee in locating former Line of
Scrimmage on incomplete passes.

Duties and Positioning

Scrimmage Duties (6)
Both
Watch for first touching or catching by ineligible Receiver.
Throw flag.
Note ball tipped by Eligible Receiver.
After pass is complete, watch for offside or lateral pass.
If pass is incomplete, give incomplete signal, and retrieve
ball.
On complete pass when 1st down is clearly gained, after ball
is dead, signal Stop the Clock and then signal completion.
Concede call to Official that Receiver is facing.
After pass interception, after the ball is dead, signal Stop
the Clock and indicate direction of play.

Duties and Positioning

Goal Line Plays (1)
FREE
Move to goal line on snap.
Still responsible for legal formation numbering,
etc.
On snap of ball, know where ball is and follow
ball carrier.
HOLD
Normal position on line of scrimmage.
Responsible for whole line.

Duties and Positioning

Goal Line Plays (2)
BOTH
If ball touches goal line in possession of Team A,
even in air, signal TD.
Watch for fumble into End Zone.
If penalty is called which would nullify TD,
ensure Referee knows immediately. Do not
signal score.
Assist in pileups where ball is not visible.
If another Official has a more advantageous
points, defer to him/her.

Duties and Positioning

Kick from Scrimmage (1)
FREE
Free man (short side) covers entire width of field
5 yards in front, 10-12 yards towards sideline of punt
Receiver
Stay well outside the play in its entirety.
Restraining zone point of possession.
Watch for illegal hand off pass, fumble, etc
Know point ball held if penalty is called.
Be prepared to cover goal line and/or dead line and to
rule on 1-point or 2-point score
Whistle play dead if ball hits goal post assembly in flight.

Duties and Positioning

Kick from Scrimmage (2)
HELD
Line of Scrimmage entire line of play.
Wait until ball crosses Line of Scrimmage,
blocked/deflected kicks
After ball crosses line, move downfield, stay
wide, watch for illegal action in front of or beyond
the ball carrier.
Be alert for possible pass or running play.

COVERAGE ON PUNTS
Read and answer questions.
Click or press n to see
movements
HL

3.a)The
LJ is the
free or
held
official?
b) When
does the
LJ leave
the LS?
c) What
does the
LJ
watch
for?

U
L
J
R

2.a)What side does

the Umpire favor?
b) When and where
does the U move?

1.a) The HL
is the free or
held
official?
b) Where
does HL
position
prior to
punt?
c) What does
the HL
watch for
when the
receiver gets
the ball?

Duties and Positioning

Kick from Scrimmage (3)
BOTH
If ball goes out of bounds, signal Time Out: and
mark out-of-bounds spot.
If the ball bounces out of bounds, or if it goes out
of bounds in fight, assist the Referee in marking
the out-of-bounds spot by following his/her
directions/. Retrieve ball
Penalty know if ball in possession, point ball
held or point of possession
Punt 4
man

KICK OUT OF BOUNDS

1. What signals will the down
field official give the
Referee?
2. If the ball goes Out of
Bounds (OB), in the air, how
does the side official help
the Referee locate the point
where the ball went OB?

Duties and Positioning

Field Goals and Converts (1)
Outside 10 yard line
FREE Under goal posts
HELD Same as kick from scrimmage

Inside 10 yard line

FREE Same as kick from scrimmaged. Cover
dead line and sideline in
End Zone.
HELD Same as kick form scrimmage.
- Watch for contacting kicker or holder.

Duties and Positioning

Field Goals and Converts (2)
Converts
FREE Same as a scrimmage if 2-point
try, otherwise same as kick from
scrimmage. Referees signal.
HELD Same as scrimmage play.
Watch for contacting kicker or holder.

Duties and Responsibilities

Developing Zone Coverage,
Box in Play, Looking through the
Play

LESSON 4

Developing Zone Coverage

Know your positioning for play situations (i.e.
Run, Pass) and don't overstep your area of
responsibility.
Look off the ball, you have other responsibilities.
Dont follow the ball too closely let it come to
you and then stay up with it.
Welcome support for other Officials .

Box in Play
Dont be over anxious.
Dont turn your back on the play or Players
(i.e. pick up the spot).
Containment is the key.
Step out of bounds if necessary.
Dont get trapped by overrunning your area
of responsibility.

Looking through the play

Use your eyes to cover a play, not always your feet.
Be willing to give way to other Officials.
Look for help (who has the best view?)
Key situations; fumbles, competed catch, forward
progress, Q.B. Lateral pass

Out-of-bounds Coverage After

Ball is Dead (1)
Positioning

Sideline responsibility,
dont get blocked out,
make sure you can see
the sideline.
Step out of bounds
if necessary.

Sequence
Whistle, stop the clock, follow ball carrier out
of bounds using eye contact (especially on side
of benches)

Continue
watching
the action
of the
player as
the ball
carrier
runs out
of bounds

Mark spot
in your
mind and
with your
feet not
your eyes

Sideline Coverage

Is the ball carrier in or out of bounds? Explain

44

Out-of-bounds Coverage After

Ball is Dead (2)
Eye Contact

Know where sideline is and be sure you can see it if

necessary.
Be sure to physically follow ball carrier out of bounds if
necessary.

Potential Situations
1. Sideline Official: Mark the spot with your foot not your eyes,
or make a mental note of out-of-bounds spot until you get
there.
2. Another Official marks spot team work, he/she get spot, you
watch dead ball action.

Out-of-bounds Coverage After

Ball is Dead (3)
Player Action after the Play is Dead
Cheap shots, intimidation
Move in quickly, send Players to the
huddle.
Use voice.
Trail play which is away from your area.
Officiate between downs.

Mental Preparation for Play

Situations
Be aware of game situations, i.e. time left, down,
yardage required.
Be aware of previous tendencies by Teams.
Expect the unexpected.
Develop a consistent pre-play mental check list.

Review of General On-field

Mechanics For Side Line Officials
LESSON 5

Review of General On-field

Mechanics (1)
Fundamental Skills
Use of Whistle
Loud and Sharp

Throwing of Flag

Throw high to be clearly visible

Throw to spot when required
Get Players number
Continue to officiate until end of play

Review of General On-field

Mechanics (2)
Use of Signals
In Teamwork with other Officials
Examples
1. HELD/FREE
2. Relay signals, long complete/incomplete pass
3. Control of the clock
Spotting, Retrieving and Relaying the Ball
Pick up spot when required but be willing to give up to other
Official (i.e. Umpire at hash mark) in order to retrieve ball
Dont move ball if there is doubt measurement will be needed
Work as a unit triangle system, chain action, short underhand
passes.

Review of General On-field

Mechanics (3)
Count of Players
4 Official
H.L. Home team
L.J. Visitors
count every play
if too many men,
Re-count
check with other official
Signal too many,

Minimum of two flags

Reporting Penalties

LESSON 6

Reporting Penalties Use of

Penalty Card (1)
Procedure

Release Official who has penalty from spot

Use format CINS or TINS
Provide all formation needed i.e. first
down made before foul, foul after change of
possessions, point where ball held at time of
foul (PBH), point of possession (PP), etc.

Reporting Penalties Use of

Penalty Card (2)
Penalty Card information (as per Local
Associations)
All Officials should aid H.L., who in turn will notify
minor Official (i.e. downs box)
In some cases, where the minor Officials are
inexperienced or unreliable, the penalty card may be
kept by a field Official. The same accurate reporting
is required.
Accuracy is essential if the information is of any use
to Coaches, or for league statistics.
Use correct abbreviations on the card

Umpire
Special Communication Factors
LESSON 7

Communication with the

Referee (1)
Before the Game
1. Meeting with Coaches
Proceed with Referee to meet Coach
On the game card, record numbers of:
Captains
Quarterbacks
Kickers
Holders
Punters

2. Meeting with Other Officials

Review any special play situations
Review HELD/FREE procedures
Review ball relay

3. Meeting with Captains

Proceed with Referee to meet Captains
Record choices

Communication with the

Referee (2)
During Penalty Options
Clock Stopped?
Get a Ball
Direct Captains to Referee
Know circumstances of play and foul
Stay by Referee
Remind Referee to give pre-signal
Know options assist Referee if he/she needs help
Mark off yardage and place ball
Confirm penalty application with Head Linesman
Remind Referee when time will start

Communication with the

Referee (3)
Time Outs
Make sure clock is stopped
Time the Time Out
See Time Out is recorded against proper
team
Stand together as a crew
Notify the Referee when 50 seconds elapsed
Remind Referee Time In on snap

Communication with the

Referee (4)
Half Time
Timing of Half Time responsibility
Get game ball
Proceed to dressing room
Discuss problems
Note Team choice for second half
Proceed to field with 5 minutes left

Communication with Sideline

Officials
Indicate responsibility for deep/short pass coverage
Take position when Players huddle
Determine who is HELD? Who is FREE?
Usually HELD Official is on wide side of field
You may wish to hold short side Official on the LS because of formation that offence takes.

When Referee blows ball ready, indicate who will be HELD by extending arm and
pointing with open hand
Check for his/her response signal (pointing to ground) and responses signal of other
Official (salute)
As offence breaks huddle, count defensive team and check for legality of offensive
formation
Prepare for next play

Developing Positive Player

Relationships

Will reduce disputes

Enhance respect for Officials
Show that you care
Facilitate administration of game
Use comments like
let him/her up easily
watch your hands
keep your hand in
Blue, youve got two Players coming in
ball, please, followed by thank you

UMPIRES
MEETINGS

LESSON 8

Meeting the Coaches

General Duties
The Referee and Umpire will meet with the coaches 30 minutes
prior to the start of the game.
Meet with each coach for the same amount of time.
Generally meet with visiting coach first.

63

Meeting the Coaches

64

Meeting the Coaches

The Referee

- - Introduce yourself and the Umpire

- Allow the Umpire to request the coach sign the coachs certification
form
A-Ask the coach to identify captains, punter, kicker and holder and any
other players the officials should know about( eg. 3rd down centre )
A-Ask if there are any concerns or special plays the officials should be
aware of.
-Advise the coach of any special pre game happening, field conditions
etc.

65

Meeting the Coaches

The Umpire

Serve as the eyes and ears of the Referee after being

introduced.
- Request that the coachs certification be signed.
- Record the numbers of the captains, punter , kicker holder
and any
other player officials should know about
- Listen to the coachs concerns/plays and be able to relay this
information to the rest of the officials.
- Accompany the referee back to the timers bench to meet
with the rest of
the crew.
-

66

Game Card and Coaches Declaration

Umpire
records captains
place kicker
holder and punter
given by the
coach

Umpire
gets the
coach to
sign the
Coaches
Declaration

If the team with

the choice at the
start of the game
chooses to defer
mark a D by first
half

The Umpire and All

members of the
crew should record
time outs

67

MEETING THE CAPTAINS

JU
D
G

LI
N
E

JU
DG

SI
DE

FI
EL

UM
PI

JU
DG

RE

G
AN U D
D
M
A S
J
HE INE CK
L
BA

INTRODUCTION
CAPTAINS
OFFICIALS

FIRST CHOICE
WILL THE TEAM WITH FIRST CHOICE TAKE
IT NOW OR DEFER TO THE SECOND
HALF
REFEREE
STANDS WITH BACK TO PRESS BOX SO WHEN
HE TURNS THE ANNOUNCER CAN SEE HIS
SIGNALS

Mechanics for Deferring

1) Stand beside the deferring Team
2) signal incomplete pass

68

MEETING THE CAPTAINS

OPTIONS TO THE TEAM MAKING THE CHOICE
-Kick or Receive
-Choice of End
Mechanics for Identifying and Recording Choices
Referee Signal choice of the Team making the FIRST choice
Umpire - record choices deferred or not
- selections made
Referee comments to Captains
Prior to choices- any questions/concerns
- field conditions or information teams should know
After choices - have a good game
- get Teams out for the Kickoff start in _ minutes
69

Choice at the Start of the Game

How high did he
flip it?

Referee will allow the visiting team first choice at start of the game
To make choice in first half or defer their choice to the second half
Can be decided by a coin toss.
How else can the choice be decided?

70

Meeting the Captains

Start of the Game

Waiting for captains

Captains greeting each other

Introducing the crew and making the choices

Umpire recording choices

Switching sides after choice

71

MEETING THE CAPTAINS TO START

SECOND HALF
Umpire - Advise referee whose choice it is
Referee - Ask the captain of the team who has a
choice
-Ask the other team for their choice.
-Signal choice of the team that had the
first selection

72

Pre Game Meeting with Officials

After the Meeting with the Coaches
-Go over numbers captains punter, kicker ,holder
-Review any special plays that the coaches have stated
-Review any problems with numbering of players
-Review how you will interact with other officials

Done before Meetings with the Coaches

-4man crew- review when you will give Free and Held signal and the
response required.
-Review how kicks from scrimmage will be covered
-Review coverage when ball goes out of bounds
-review the relay of the ball after it becomes dead

73

Communication by the Umpire

Lesson 9

Communicating with the Referee

During Penalty options
-Be sure that the clock is stopped
-Obtain a ball from the Head Linesman/Line Judge /ball boy
-Direct the captains to the Referee
-Know as much as possible about the circumstances of the play
and foul as you can( e g. Where was the exact PLS on left
or right hash or centre of field
-Stay by the Referee
-Remind the Referee to give a pre signal
-Know what the options should be , to assist the referee IF he
needs help
-Once an option has been chosen, mark off the distance and put
the ball down
-Confirm with the Head Linesman that the correct distance
penalty has been assessed
Remind the Referee when time will start on the next play

75

Communication with the Referee

TIME OUT
NOTIME OUT

The head coach or

designated coach may
call a time out from the
sideline
Players on the field may
76
call time outs

Developing Player Relationships

Create a positive relationship with players
Will reduce disputes
Enhance respect for officials
Make players aware that you care
Facilitate administration of the game
Use comments like:
* Let him up easily

* Good work

* Watch your hands

* Blue, youve got two players coming in

* Keep your hands in

* Hard running

* Ball, please, followed by thank you

77

COMMUNICATION WITH THE REFEREE

Half time

78

Hurry Up Offense
WITH BALL UNTIL REFEREE IS READY
BALL AWARNESS
CONTINUE NORMAL RESPONSIBILITIES
BEFORE PLAY
DURING PLAY
BETWEEN PLAYS
PLAYER MANAGEMENT AFTER PLAY

79

TIMING AND CLOCK AWARNESS

KICKOFF-SIGNAL-TIME IN
-TIME OUT

DURING THE GAME

-STOP CLOCK WHEN NESCESSARY
-ASSIST REFEREE IN CONTROLLOING THE CLOCK
-KEEP THE REFEREE INFORMED

BE AWARE OF TIMING AND CLOCK CONTROL

80

COUNTING PLAYERS
FOR 4 AND 3 OFFICIAL CREWS THE UMPIRE WILL:
COUNT PLAYERS IN GROUPS
SCRIMMAGE PLAYS
COUNT THE DEFENSE
WARNING RE: SUBSTITUTIONS
TOO MANY MEN-SECOND COUNT
KICKOFF COUNT DEFENCE
PUNTS- CHECK TEAM ALIGNMENT
- 10 12 YARDS BACK , TURN AS PLAYERS PASS YOU
- FAVOUR SHORT SIDE (COVER THAT SIDE)
HURRY UP OFFENCE- COUNT WHILE GETTING READY

81

COMMUNICATION WITH SIDELINE

OFFICIALS
TAKE POSITION WHEN PLAYERS HUDDLE
4 MAN CREW
DETERMINE FREE AND HELD
- FREE OFFICIAL IS ON THE SHORT SIDE OF FIELD
- MAY WANT TO HOLD FREE OFFICIAL ON LS BECAUSE OF
FROMATION THAT THE OFFENCE TAKES
- WHEN REFEREE BLOWS BALL READY, INDICATE WHO WILL IS
FREE AND HELD BY EXTENDING ARM AND POINTING TO HELD
OFFICIAL
- CHECK FOR RESPONSE SIGNAL (HELD POINTING TO GROUND;FREE OFFICIAL
POINTING DOWN FIELD
THREE MAN CREW
THE UMPIRE ASSUMES THE DUTIES OF THE FREE OFFICIAL OF A 4 Official CREW
SO HE NEEDS THE HEAD LINESMANS HELP,PARTICULARLY ON PASS
AND PUNT PLAYS

82

Positioning of the Umpire

Lesson 10
The importance of
positioning and
mechanics
3 Official Crew
4 Official crew

READING KEYS
UTILIZE PRE GAME INFORMATION
PRIOR TO PLAY
-KEY PLAY FACTORS
-SPECIAL FORMATIONS
-SPECIAL SUBSTITUTIONS
DURING THE PLAY
NOTE PLAYER ACTION
-GO WITH THE FLOW
-WATCH PLAYER PATTERNS
-LOOK THROUGH THE PLAY
-NOTE DEFENSIVE FORMATIONS
SHORT YARDAGE PLAYS
-KICK OFFS
-PUNTS
-CONVERTS
84

UMPIRE SURVIVAL TACTICS AND MOVEMENTS

- AGGRESSIVE FORWARD MOTION
- STEP INTO POCKET OF PASS PLAY
- STEP FORWARD ON PUNTS
- PLAY AWARNESS
-SIDE STEP AND TURN TACTICS
- REACT TO INSTINCTS
-

DONT PILE ON

COMMUNICATION WITH PLAYERS

- VARY INITIAL POSITIONING

How could have the Umpire

avoided this?

- UTILIZE PRE GAME INFO

- LOW PROFILE ON PASS PLAYS
-

LATERAL MOBILITY
85

UMPIRE Starting Position

Position behind the defensive team (10-12)
yards. Vary initial position. Do not be static
(The offense will use the umpire as an extra
blocker when staying in the same position.

Observe blocking and use of hand and arms of both teams on L of

S from tackle to tackle, and on line backers in that area.
Should not be concerned with the ball until it enters your

Umpire
Positioning- primary Positioning and Coverage
continued
Do not block the view of the defensive backs or impede their movement
Count the Defensive team and be aware of eligible receivers numbers and
watch for illegal procedure.
Know the number of the down (check downs box correct) and yards to be
gained.
Designate and signal the HELD Official
Assist side men on crack -back infractions
Avoid getting caught up in traffic
(do not become a blocker).
Make certain you see the ball before blowing your whistle

Umpire
KICK OFF DUTIES
Downfield on side of HL, about the 10 yard line outside the
deepest receiver.
Signal the Referee when end zone is clear and 12 players on
the receiving team
Signal coverage responsibilities with the Line Judge
Signal Time in when the ball is first touched by a Player, in
your area, or repeat time in signal from another official.
If the ball carrier is not in your area, observe blocking ahead
of the ball carrier. for BBW, BR etc. .
BE alert to sound whistle should the ball strike the goal post
assembly.
Do not look for the ball if it is not in your area of coveragecover the blocking in front of the ball carrier

COVERAGE ON KICKOFFS
Template - field
What
is the
LJ s
duty?

LJ

U
What signal should the U
give the LJ?

5
10

What is the Us duty?

15
20
25
30
35

Watch U and LJ

40
45
50

HL

C
50

(R and HL also move)

R

Click (or press n) to

start (to see again
touch p and then click
or touch n)
Answer the three
questions

COVERAGE ON KICKOFFS
Be prepared for a short kick off,
fumbles, offside passes on hand offs
etc..
Watch for K.O. going out of bounds,
especially in the end zone (flag,
whistle and signal).
Cover dead line
and goal line on your side of the field,
and be prepared to rule on 1-point or
2 point score.
Keep your 4-official box in shape; do
not over run your field position.
Know who last touched a fumbled of
lateralled ball.
Watch for infractions, in your area of
coverage, and know if the ball is in
possession or not, and where ,when a
foul is called.

Umpire-Scrimmage
Running Plays
Watch Linemen for illegal procedure and 1 full second pause
Split the line with the Referee
Watch defensive line charge: holding, illegal use of hands, butt tactics etc.
Then watch the game behind the L of S as defense penetrates, to cover behind
the Referee .
Look through the action to cover behind the Referee.
Pick up ball carrier on short plays through the line
When a man is coming at you step aside and forward and let the play pass you.
Do not back up you may get caught between a ball carrier and a tackler.
When a play has passed you ,or gone around the end, drift with the play,
continuing to watch the line play and the linemen as they proceed downfield
watching for late block, roughness, etc. after the whistle.
Do not be too anxious to spot the ball( you have two side men to help with that).
Move to hash mark, or to point when a ball is dead to spot for the next play
Take a position for next play-assist Referee re :timing if necessary

Pass Plays
The umpire will:
Watch the 5 interior linemen for illegal use of hands and
for being down field illegally.
As the pass defenders back up , MOVE FORWARD, to stay close to the play.
DO NOT CROSS THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE
TURN on ALL passes to ASSIST coverage
Concede the call to the Official who has the view facing the ball (eye
contact)
Look through to the other Officials to make sure they have seen the playthey may have seen something you didnt (i.e. a trapped ball).
Watch for ineligible Receivers attempting to catch the ball
After a pass is complete or incomplete, keep Players under observation
Box the play in.
Spot the ball for the next down if no measurement is required.
Do not be over anxious to signal an incomplete pass. Hold the signal until
assured the ball has touched the ground

PASSING PLAY
UMPIRE MOVEMENT
Umpire first step (s) is
forward toward L Of S

Dont cross the L of S

Move with the Line

Following the pass turn and

provide support for catch or not

c
QB
Click for motion

Pass Plays

Umpire turns on
pass plays
Provide support to
back officials .Watch
if the ball skips or is
dropped. Do not
worry about Pass
Interference must
see the whole play

Note the Umpire stays near the hash

to insure the boxing in of the play

94

Short Yardage

The first step should

be forward
Click for motion

Side line official

When it is third down and less than two yards and Team A is going for the first down:
- The Umpire shall position himself outside the tackle on the wide side ,
and step up into the neutral zone as the ball is snapped.
the

- The Umpires duty is to help the side line officials get the primary spot by boxing in
play and having a good side view of the forward progress

Measurements
ENSURE THE BALL IS NOT MOVED
CONTROL FORWARD STICK
CHECK CHAINS AND DOWNS BOX

Umpire
will get
forward
picket

Back official
holds back
picket

96

Change at the End of a Quarter

WHERE, WHAT, WHO
READY TO CHANGE ENDS
CHECK FOR CORRECT BALL PLACEMENT
- POSITION
- DOWN
- DISTANCE
ON BALL UNTILL REFEREE SIGNAL

97

BALL CONTROL
COORDINATE WITH REFEREE
WET DAY PROCEDURES

STAND OVER THE BALL

UNTIL THE REFEREE IS
READY AND FOR HURRY
UP OFFENSES

TOWEL FOR WET DAYS

98

Ball Retrieval
PROPER POSITIONING KNOWLEDGE
- PLAY ORIGIN
- PLAY COMPLETION
- POINT OF NEXT DOWN

USE OF SHOVEL PASS

99

Umpire Penalty
Administration
LESSON 9

Administration of Penalties
Introduction
The placement of the ball on penalty situations is a
primary responsibility of the Umpire.
When a penalty is being reported the Umpire must be
with the Referee, and remain with the Referee while the
penalty options are being given and until the umpire has
been instructed to apply the penalty.
The Umpire should be aware of the infraction being called
to ensure that the Referee has given the correct penalty
options.
In effect the Umpire must assist the Referee in
administering all penalties

Administration of Penalties
Knowing infractions(s) and option
Carry the ball distance given by Referee
Avoid pacing off distance if lines are
available
Check distance with the Referee and
Head Linesman
Assist Referee with time (Hold/Go)

Umpire indicating penalty application

1)JOIN THE REFEREE

2) OBTAIN BALL

3) INFO TO THE REFEREE

4) BE PREPARED TO ASSIST REFEREE
5) ENSURE PROPER PENALTY APPLICATION

103

APPLICATION OF PENALTIES
POINT OF
PLACEMENT

30

POINT OF PLACEMENT

15 YARD
PENALY

25

20

10 YARD
PENALTY

CROSS TWO LINES

CROSS
THREE
LINES

PONT OF APPLICATION
15
POINT OF PLACEMENT

10
POINT OF APPLICATION

Note distance to the next field line

FIVE YARD
PENALTY

POINT OF
APPLICATION

CROSS ONE LINE

Note distance to the next

field line

104

Points of Application of
Penalties
1. Point of Last Scrimmage (PLS)
2. Point Ball Held (PBH)
3. Point of Foul (PF)
4. Point of Possession (PP)
5. Point Ball Dead (PBD)
6. Point of Pass (POP)
7. Point of Kick Off (PKO)

Classifying Fouls
See SUPPORT MATERIAL-Signals or
RULE BOOK-summary of Penalties

1.

5 Yards Procedural Fouls

2.

10 Yards Unfair Advantage Fouls

3.

15 Yards Major Fouls

25 Yards + Disqualification R.P.

4.

Loss of Down

5.

Special Circumstances
Illegal interference on loose ball
Unauthorized participation

Rules Study
LESSON 10

Rule Study
The opportunity is presented
here to identify the sections of
the Rule Book that should be
read and reviewed carefully in
terms of how they are
implemented by the Umpire

Code of Ethics
Rule book: Introduction page v to viii
Purpose
Protect and promote interests of Football
Purpose and value of Football
Primary Focus Officials
Competence
Cooperation
Discharge of responsibilities
Courtesy
Success Coaches, Players
Administrators
Officials cooperation

Tie Game
Rule 1 section 3 article 6
1. Tie Game
Need for a winner
Accepted methods
Variations (requirements)
2. Captains
Sole Communicators
Penalties
Measurements

Time Starts
Rule 1 section 5 article 1
Ready for scrimmage
1. Ball snapped time count
Time out
2. After the 3 Min warning
On snap
Carried O.B.
Kick-off
Punt
Penalty application
Change of Possession
3. After the 3 Min Warning
Foul before ball snapped

Time Stops
Rule 1 section 5 article 2
Score
Ball out of bounds
Incomplete forward pass
After Penalty
Substitution (mass)
Injury
End of period/
Ball Dead (3 min warning)
Time out
Referees Discretion
End of Quarter
Extra Play
When

Possession
Rule 1 section 6
1.
2.
3.
4.

Definition
Disputed
Simultaneous
Change
Scrimmage play
Forward pass
Scrimmage kick
Return kick
Kick off
Loose ball
In flight

Live Ball
Rule 1 section 7 article 1
1. Strike an Official (except on forward pass)
2. Lying loose
3. Held for place kick
4. Interception in E.Z.
5. Offside pass
6. Dribbled ball
7. Dribbled bal hitting G.P.
8. Kicked ball hitting G.P. (not in flight)
9. Injury stoppage of play
When
Treatment/personnel
bleeding

Dead Ball
Rule 1 section 8 article 1
1.

Whistle blown
Normal
Inadvertent
2. Out of Bounds
3. Score
4. Forward progress stopped
5. Incomplete forward pass
6. Possession by Player lying on ground
7. Striking G/P. Assembly in flight
8. Ball carrier touches ground (exceptions)
Exceptions
Holding ball K.O., F.G., convert
Catching kicked ball
Catching centre snap

In/Out of Bounds
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

7.

8.

Rule 1 section10 articles 1 to 8

Definition
Carried out
Kicked out
Thrown out
Last touched
Into End Zone
Not touched by opposition
Touched by team mate
Touched by opposition
From End Zone
To O.B. in E.Z.
To O.B. in F. P.
Player out of bounds

Table of Scores

Rule3 section 2 articles 1 to 5

Definitions
Touchdown
Field Goal
Safety Touch
Rouge (Single)
Convert

Definitions
Rule 4 section 1 article 1 to 3
Line of Scrimmage
Neutral Zone
Close Line Play area
Line vs Backfield

Requirements for Legal

Scrimmage
Rule 4 section 3
Numbering
eligible/ineligible receivers
Inappropriate numbered (any number)
Player Requirement
7 man line (minimum)
5 consecutive ineligible (by number or reporting to
Referee)
eligible each end (by number or reporting to Referee)

Stance and Motion

Rule 4 section 1 article 4

Line Players
Centre
Backs

Interference
Rule 4 section 5

Definitions
1. Interference
2. Blocking
3. Blocking below the waist
4. Delayed Knee Block
5. Crack Back Block

Kicking Definitions
Rule 5 section 1

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Kicked Ball
Drop Kick
Place Kick
Punt
Dribbled Ball
Return Kick
Quick Kick
Open Field Kick

Kick Off
Rule 5 section 2 articles 1 to 5

1. Points of Kick Off

2. Neutral Zone
3. Legal Kick Off
4. Offside
5. Interference

Blocked Kick
1.
2.

Rule 5 section 3 articles 1 to 5

Definition
In Bounds
Recovered by B
Recovered by A YG YNG
3. Out of Bounds
Last touched by A
Last touched by B
4. Blocked through EZ
Last touched by A
Last touched by B
Without touching
5. Pyramiding

Scrimmage Kick
Rule 5 section 4 and section 5
Restraining Zone
Restraining Zone Violations

Goal Post Assembly

Kicked ball striking in flight
Kicked ball striking after hitting ground
Kicked ball striking kicking Teams goal post assembly

Interference

Scrimmage Kick Receiving team

Return Kick Receiving team
Kicking team
Recovery of Kick

In/Out of Bounds
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Rule 1 section 10

Definition
Carried out
Kicked out
Thrown out
Last touched
Into End Zone

Not touched by opposition

Touched by team mate
Touched by opposition

7. From End Zone

To O.B. in E.Z.
To O.B. in F. P.

8. Player out of bounds

Rule 1 section 6
1.
2.
3.
4.

Possession

Disputed
Simultaneous
Change
Scrimmage play
Forward pass
Scrimmage kick
Return kick
Kick off
Loose ball in flight

Definitions
Rule 6 section 1 to 3

1. Lateral or onside pass

2. Hand off pass
3. Offside pass

Forward Pass

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.

Rule 6 section 4

Definitions
Eligible receivers
Ineligible Receivers
Completed forward pas
Incomplete pass
Deliberate grounding
Interference
Illegal interference
Illegal Contact
Interception in End Zone
Fumble
Pass or fumble
Broken play
Screen Pass

Mechanics and Positioning

Mechanics refers to the routine procedure surrounding what the official does.

The two primary areas of mechanics are signaling and positioning.

When more than one official is involve Teamwork becomes a third area of mechanics, where
in additional signaling and positioning responsibilities are necessary.
The mechanics of positioning, signaling and teamwork are all of the essential importance to a
professional performance.
Good positioning, is necessary if you are to see what you are supposed to see.
Sharp, unhesitating and un-hurried signals are necessary to communicate your decisions and to
build the confidence of everyone regarding your officiating ability
Commonly recognized teamwork procedures are necessary to ensure to the greatest extent that
(a) every conceivable action is covered and ruled upon and
(b) disagreement is eliminated or minimized
When proper mechanics are performed precisely, the game progresses without confusion of
unnecessary delay.
Good mechanics are not too difficult to develop if correct habits are established early in the
officiating career.
130

POSITIONING CHARTS
4 OFFICIAL CREWS
3 OFFICIAL CREWS

3 Official System Kick Off

G

5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40

HL

45
50
C

3 Official System Scrimmage Play

G
5
10
15
20
25

30
35
40
45
50
C

HL
R

3 Official System Goal Line

G
5
10
15
20
25
30
35

HL

U
R

3 Official System Punt

G

5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
C

HL
R

3 Official System Field Goal Outside 10 Yard

Line
U
G
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50

HL
R

Convert 3 Official System Convert and Field

Goal inside 10 yard line
U

G
5

HL

10
15

20
25
30
35
40
45
50

To return
to umpire
positioning

4 Official System Kick Off

G
5

10

LJ

15
20
25
30
35
40

HL

45
50
C

Sideline
officials

Scrimmage Play Running - 4 Officials

G
5
10
15
20
25

30
35
40
45

50
C

Scrimmage Play Passing - 4 Officials

G
5
10
15
20
25

30
35
40
45

50
C

Goal Line Stand - 4 Officials

G
5
10
15
20
25
30
35

F
R

Punt - 4 Officials
G
5

10
15
20
25

U
H

30
35
40
45
50
C

Field Goal Outside 10 Yard Line 4 Officials

F
G
5
10
15
20

25
30
35
40
45
50

H
R

Field Goal Inside 10 Yard Line 4 Officials

F

5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50

Convert 4 Officials

G
5

10
15

Return to
Umpire
positioning

20
25
30
35
40
45
50

Return to
sideline official

Officials Signals

GROUPED INTO RELATED CATEGORIES

5 YARDS-PROCEDURAL FOULS
10 YARDS- UNFAIR ADVANTAGE FOULS
15 YARDS-MAJOR FOULS
25 YARDS- ROUGH PLAY
-DISQUALIFICATION
POINT OF FOUL
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
146

Officials' Signals

DOWNS

First

Second

Third

147

SCORES

Touch Down

Field Goal

Convert

6 points

3 points

1 or 2 points

Safety Touch
2 points

Rouge
1 point
148

GAME ADMINISTRATION

START CLOCK

INCOMPLETE PASS

STOP CLOCK

NO MOUTH GUARD WARNING

PENALTY DECLINED

MEASUREMENT
149

5 YARD FOULS
PROCEDURAL FOULS

ILLEGAL PROCEDURE

Time count prior to 3min

OFFSIDE

ILLEGAL
EQUIPMENT

No yards (bounce back)

150

10 YARD FOULS
UNFAIR ADVANTAGE FOULS

HOLDING

ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION

TIME COUNT AFTER 3MIN 3RD D

INELLEGIBLE RECEIVER
DOWNFIELD
OTHER

ILLEGAL BLOCK

BLOCK BELOW THE WAIST

ILLEGAL CONTACT
ON A RECEIVER

OBJECTIONABLE CONDUCT

CONTACTING THE KICKER

ILLEGAL FORWARD
PASS

TRIPPING
CROSSING ONE FOOT
151
OVER THE

15 YARD FOULS
MAJOR FOULS

UNNECESSARY

ILLEGAL PASS

BLOCKING FROM

ROUGHNESS

INTERFERENCE

THE REAR

UR + PILING ON

UR+ FACE MASK

UR + SPEARING

UR + CRACKBACK

152

25 YARD FOULS

DISQUALIFICATION

153

POINT OF FOUL FOULS

PASS INTERFERENCE

INTENTIONAL

OFFSIDE

LESS THAN 15 YARDS

GROUNDING

PASS

154

Loss of Down Fouls

Offside Pass

Time Count 1st

and 2nd Down last
3 minutes of a half

Team A
penalty on
own 1 yard
line
Applicable
penalty signal

Intentional Grounding

155

Special Circumstance Fouls

Illegal interference on a
loose ball

Unauthorized participation

156

No Distance Penalty
No mouth Guard Warning
at one time was one hand behind the head signal removed
from rule book
Improper Registration
Player (s) sent off until properly registered with the
scorer
Restraining Zone Foul-short kick falling )into a group of
players
No signal as play whistled dead no foul has occurred

157

Point of Last Scrimmage

(PLS)
The majority of penalties are applied
from this point.
The PLS is the point of application used
for penalties occurring
Prior to the 1st down distance being
gained

Point Ball Held

(PBH)
This is the point where the ball is held at
the time of the foul
It is the point of application for penalties
that occur after distance gained and/or
after a change of possession

Point of Foul
(PF)
This is the point where the foul
occurred
It is the point of application on loose
ball fouls affecting the possession
It is the point of application for pass
interference less than 15 yards from
the line of scrimmage

Point of Possession
(PP)
This is the point where possession is gained
It is the point of application for fouls occurring
while the ball is in flight

Point where the Ball is Dead

(PBD)
This point is used on dead ball fouls, in some UR
and RP situations, and for Objectionable Conduct

Point of Pass
(POP)
This is the point from which the pass is thrown
and is the point of application for offside
passes, and deliberate grounding of a forward
pass

Point of Kick Off

(PKO)
This is the point of application for fouls
occurring on a kick off, offside on the kick
off, kick off out of bounds, etc.

Back Umpire Pass Coverage

165

No Yards ?

166

Kickoff Positioning

167

Ready for Kick Off

After counting your Team
and checking the your zone ,
the Official raises his arm
vertically in the air and
holds it up until
acknowledged by the
Referee
The kick off should not take
place until both teams have
twelve players on the field

168

Field Goal Attempt

169

Goal Line Coverage

What is the official watching ?

170

Whats the Call

A

1. What foul is shown?

2. a) Are both A and B fouls?
b) Explain your answer
171

Getting it Right

172

REFEREE
KEEPING THE PEACE

What would the Referee act and talk to the player he is

holding back?
173

PASS INTERFERENCE

When either team is guilty of illegal interference on a forward

pass.
By Team A -- 1,2,3,4,D L15 DR
By Team B Behind the L.S. 1D PLS
Across the L.S.
1D at point of Foul, if less than 15 yards from PLS
1D plus 15 PLS, if PF is more than 15 from PLS

174

PASS INTERFERENCE

Once ball in the air, neither

receiver nor defender can
interfere with each others
attempt to catch the ball

What penalties can be applied to Team B?

What penalty is applied to Team A?
175

Pass Interference
1. Exam the photo ,why is
this a classic example of
illegal pass interference?
2. What is the penalty if the
interference was caused
by Team B is
A) 7 yards across the Line of
scrimmage

3.What if Team A
was charged with
illegal pass
interference.
What is the
penalty for this
Team A foul?

B) Twenty five yards down

field
C) In the Team B end zone
with the ball and Team A
2nd and 8 @
i) B 17 yard line
ii) B 23 yard line
D) On a potential team A
receiver 5 yards in the A
back field

176

Whats the Call?

What is the official indicating with all his new

found officiating friends

177

Whats the call?

Same or different fouls?

What is (ARE) THE
PENALTY APPLICATIONS?

178

Whats the Call?

Offensive player blocking
on a punt return with
the ball
a) at the Team A Twenty
five yard line
b) In the Team A end zone
, with block in the end
zone and ball dead in
the end zone
c)

Same play as (b) , but

the the block is at the
Team A 10 yard line.

d) Same play as ( c ) but

Team A returner gets
the ball out to the
Team A 2 yard line.
179

Unauthorized person interference

If an unauthorized person enters the field while play is in progress and interferes
with a player of Team A, Team A shall be awarded half the distance to the goal line
from PBD or PLS, whichever is to their greater advantage. If the foul is pass
interference in the end zone, Team A is awarded the ball at the B 1, or Team B is
awarded the ball at the B 10. Team A shall also be awarded three additional downs,
regardless of time remaining in the half.
Where it is obvious to the Referee that a touchdown would have been scored, he
shall award such a touchdown.
If the unauthorized person is a player, coach, trainer, equipment man. Or any other
person permitted a place on the team bench, an automatic touchdown shall be
awarded and that person is disqualified.
If an unauthorized person enters the field while the play is in progress and interferes
with a player of Team B, Team A shall be penalized for illegal interference from PBH
when the foul occurred.(1-13)