Officials as part of the Game

Introduction
 
In order to foster a positive relationship between participants the following will provide the reader with a perspective on the expected role of an official and the various issues that are important in the eyes of the “Zebras”. These ideas are extracted primarily from two sources: the Football Canada Officials Certification Program (FCOCP) and the Canadian Football Officials Association’s (CFOA) Policy and Procedures Manual.  A special thank you is extended to the authors of these documents.
 
The Canadian Football Officials Association (CFOA)
 
CFOA will represent at the National level, all football officials duly registered in Canada.  Members may register as a provincial association, regional association, or as an individual (Associate Member).  The CFOA is committed to the promotion of consistently high standards of football officiating by:
 

1. participating in the development and implementation of educational materials.
2. developing programs to support the recruitment and retention of officials.
3. providing a means of communication for membership associations.
4. providing a vehicle of recognition to outstanding service across the country.

With the above in mind, participants involved in football must realize that CFOA is not a disciplinary body.  The executive body of CFOA may be asked to facilitate as mediators, but conflict resolution occurs at the the regional or provincial level.
 
Role of the Official
 
Officials are present to administer the game and to assist in having the game proceed in as smooth a fashion as possible.  Their primary concern is the safety and well being of the players.  A main function of an official is to enforce the rules- to see that the game is played within the rules and within the spirit of the rules.  Enforcement of these rules will not only promote player safety but ensure that one participant does not take “unfair advantage” of another.  In so doing they will carry out their responsibilities without bias and strive for consistency.
 
Preventive officiating is the watchword for a successful official.  Positive actions can often prevent players from committing infractions.  For example, wherever possible, officials will use their voice to give warnings or to diffuse inappropriate interactions amongst ball players.  
 
At all times they will limit their contact with participants to the affairs of the day in a friendly, approachable but foremost business like fashion. 
 
Football Canada Officials Certification Program (FCOCP)
 
A certification program has been developed to provide Officials with the fundamental technical skills, rules and mechanics knowledge, philosophy of officiating, and an appreciation of the interpersonal relationships which are required to become a proficient official.  The program involves four levels of certification. 
Each level prepares officials for different positions and different levels of football.  The aims of the FCOP include:
 

1. standardization of:  positioning, mechanics, rules knowledge, rules interpretation and rules application.
2. strategies to encourage and motivate officials.
3. methods to assist officials in gaining national recognition for their efforts.
4. strategies which will improve the image of officials.
5. strategies to improve individual confidence.

 
Successful completion of any level involves classroom instruction, field evaluations and a written exam.  Officials are encouraged to “be the best they can be” regardless of the field position they take on.  To this end, there is no such thing as a natural progression up the officiating ranks in terms of perceived prestige.  The “TEAM” concept is essential in officiating.  The field position (Referee, Umpire, Linesman etc.) plays no part in discerning equality or superiority.  Responsibilities may differ according to position, but all officials share equally in the respect they deserve from others and share amongst themselves. 
 
Canadian Rule Book for Amateur Football
 
Officials will make every effort to encourage the use of playing rules as set down in the Canadian Rule Book for Amateur Football.  When leagues wish to deviate from these rules it is the expectation that they will do so in consultation and input from the appropriate officials group (local, provincial or national).
 
In order to foster a positive football environment it is essential that all participants of the game:
 

• make every effort to understand not only the rules of the game, but also the philosophy and intent/spirit of the rules.
• are familiar with and adhere to the “Code of  Ethics”  as presented in the rule book.

 
In enforcing the rules, officials need to demonstrate rule knowledge and exercise decision making to discern between what is “legal” and what is “illegal”.  In instances where player safety is not being jeopardized they will often make their decisions according to the rule of thumb, “No harm, No Foul”.  They will also make decisions according to the question: “Was there a real advantage?”.
 
The rule book outlines the equipment players should have and use to assist in preventing injury.    If questions are raised and answers are not directly outlined in the rule book, all participants should err on the side of caution in such matters.  Coaches and administrators should be proactive when it comes to questions regarding player safety and equipment. 


Communication with Coaches, Players and Administrators
 
Whenever possible officials and the other participants of the game should engage in ongoing communication.  Officials should be invited to attend and participate in clinics and/or discussion groups sponsored by other participants within the sport.  Such interaction will provide all members of the football community with an opportunity to share their concerns and to brainstorm strategies to deal with these concerns.
 
Mutual discussion will help non officiating groups understand the “spirit of the rule”, which is often used by officials in making decisions.  Frustration may become the outcome for those who do not understand the rule intent.  For example:  At the “point of attack  (POA)” - the infraction should be called as it is an infraction within the rule book.  However, away from the POA, a verbal warning may suffice.  Objectionable Conduct (OC), Unnecessary Roughness (UR) or Rough Play ( RP) will be called anywhere on the field.  
 
In the development and expansion of leagues it is essential that officiating  organizations be consulted.  Officiating involvement varies greatly from organization to organization and from official to official.  Factors such as official availability and level of experience required must be taken into consideration. Without proper consultation, new or expanding leagues might find themselves lacking the appropriate manpower of officials.
 
Harassment, Abuse and Fair Play Guidelines
 
Abuse and harassment of officials are growing concerns in many sports.  For football officials, there is a strong belief that these acts are directly related to retention of officials and an inability to recruit new officials.  Likewise, these acts also affect an official’s interest or lack of involvement with certain levels of play or leagues. 
 

• CFOA believes in the existence and promotion of a football environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.  Harassment, abuse and discrimination are never acceptable and must not be tolerated.   When entrusted with the welfare of child participants, it is especially important that CFOA members realize that they have special obligations.
• CFOA members have a Policy Document that is to be used to create awareness for all members of CFOA on the topic of harassment, discrimination and abuse.  Whenever possible officials should meet with other participants of the game to discuss these concerns .
• Positive role modeling is a must when it comes to the deterrents of abuse of officials.  The behaviours of all participants must always demonstrate respect and dignity.  Emotions often run high during a football game. A young football player’s ability to deal with frustration is no different than that of any other maturing individual.  If an adult in charge (coach) demonstrates frustration in an inappropriate way then we must question the effects that his/or her out of control emotions/behaviours will have on the younger participant.  In many cases the player will emulate these responses.  Likewise, there exists a need for officials to carry out their responsibilities and communicate with all participants in an emotionally controlled business like fashion.

 
Promotion of “True Sport”
 
Each member, provincial/regional organization, when possible will promote the “True Sport” philosophy and value system.  Officials will promote a philosophy which reflects the core values of True Sport during meetings with fellow officials, the media, coaches, players, spectators and league administrators.
 
 
Technology for Sport and Individual Improvement
 
Individuals should only use technology to promote and educate participants of sport. Technology will not be used in any way that may lead to the belittling or embarrassment of any participant.
 
Fair Play Code for Officials 
 

• I will encourage an environment that is free of harassment and abuse, and promotes the respect and dignity of all participants.
• I will make sure that every athlete has a reasonable opportunity to perform to the best of his or her ability, within the limits of the rules.
• I will avoid or put an end to any situation that threatens the safety of the athletes.
• I will not permit the intimidation of any athlete either by word or by action. I will not tolerate unacceptable conduct toward myself, other officials, athletes or spectators.
• I will be consistent and objective in calling all infractions, regardless of my personal feelings toward a team or individual athlete.
• I will handle all conflicts firmly, but with dignity.
• I accept my role as a teacher and role model for fair play, especially with young participants.
• I will be open to discussion and contact with the athletes before and after the game.
• I will remain open to constructive criticism and show respect and consideration for different points of view.
• I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my officiating skills