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Minimising Assault.

1. Introduction:

The majority of Referees who officiate at 'grass roots' level are not accompanied to games, and neither are they provided with any form of protection. It is therefore vitally important that Referees minimise the risk of being assaulted. There are a number of recommendations that a Referee can consider, to minimise the chances of violence being committed against them. Although some of this advice may seem excessive, Referees should not feel paranoid about the way they go about their business ........The advice is here for Referees to carefully consider those recommendations that suit their own personality. There is no 'fool-proof' method for eliminating violence against Referees completely - nevertheless, the main duty of anyone, is to protect themselves from aggression. There are many situations when a Referee may 'himself' develop (or foolishly get involved in) confrontation that will actually instigate (or increase the likelihood of) violence being committed against himself - and it is these instances that an experienced Referee will avoid like the plague. It must be emphasised that the Referee is not there to project himself as a 'macho hard-man figure', his responsibility lies with protecting himself and the players, and not becoming involved in petty face-to-face confrontations. 

The ultimate solution in preventing serious violence from being taken out on the Referee, is (before the violence occurs) for the Referee to remove himself from the scene immediately, and move into a safe environment, rather than concern himself unduly with the result of the game - this can be sorted out later by the proper authorities, pending receipt of the Referee's match-report. 

"Football is not the keystone to life - life is the keystone to football."

Sadly, there will inevitably be occasions where a Referee will need to use physical force to protect himself - this must only be used as a last resort when being attacked - and when there is no other escape outlet. Referees should not be castigated for using sensible protective measures. The Referee must try to retain his composure, and not react aggressively. He should remove himself from the situation as quickly as possible, and seek a safe environment, or the nearest police or security officer for protection.

2. So exactly what is violence against Referees?         Take me back to the top of this page

Violence occurs when an individual (or a group), attempts to impose their will on the Referee, physically forcing the Referee to do what they want. This includes any act that inflicts physical bodily harm such as punching, pushing, head-butting, slapping, spitting, beating up. Verbal abuse such as offensive, abusive and insulting language can also be felt as strongly as having a physical act committed against you. Anyone guilty of the above will have behaved violently. Verbal abuse is usually the precursor to physical violence being committed, and the Referee will need to distance himself from such confrontations. Although the Referee is not esteemed, or respected in such high regard as he once was, most potential acts of violence are thankfully 'nipped in the bud’ by the more reasoned and experienced players. Experienced Referees can also ‘nip’ potential outburst in the ‘bud’ before they reach the uncontrollable stage. But this is not helped by the increasing examples of mass confrontation towards Referees being witnessed on television and on the local playing fields in many countries. This is a very damaging image against the 'Spirit of the Game'; and if not curbed, will have a drastically negative effect on our young players.

Racial harassment is also considered to be assault, which may be a verbal, or a physical attack on yourself or your property.

Although being physically assaulted can be damaging and sometimes life threatening, some non-physical actions can also produce the same, or even greater psychological harm to the victim. For example, threats to your family and children, or being threatened with a broken bottle will not easily be forgotten.

An assault on a Referee, can very often begin with a verbal confrontation, where a player has tried in vain to influence the Referee's decision, or when a player totally disagrees with the Referee's decision. It is when the player realises that the Referee is not going to change his mind, that physical assault is an option that the player may suddenly take. A Referee must always be on the lookout for this change in emphasis from the player. If the Referee can anticipate this moment, he can take steps to back further away, or use alternative methods of man-management.

One factor that may be considered, is as follows: When admonishing players, Referees will generally ask all of the other players to move away, whilst  the perpetrator is being dealt with. This allows the Referee to concentrate on the task in hand, without being interrupted by the other players.  This works well in most cases; but when a player looks as tough he may potentially use violence, it is more prudent for the Referee to have other players nearby.  Players (particularly team-mates) very often intervene very quickly, when a colleague, or an opposing player, make physical moves to confront a Referee.  Having players nearby, will greatly assist the Referee from coming to any harm. In situations such as this, the Referee should allow other players to remain nearby, until such time that the irate player has clamed down enough, for the Referee to feel confident, that violence will not be used. It is then, that the Referee can ask the other players to move away, whilst he talks to the perpetrator. In short, the Referee should not always ask players to move away immediately, when disciplining a perpetrator; the Referee needs to assess each situation, and use all the help available to minimise assault.

"Being prepared.......is much better than being repaired!"

 The more prepared that a Referee is before each game, the more enjoyable and safe he will be.

There is only one chance for a Referee to make a first impression; and the stronger the impression is, the less chance there is of a player attempting to challenge the Referee's authority.

It is therefore important for a Referee to create a strong impression when arriving at the ground, and

to build on that impression by demonstrating a unassuming confident authority throughout the game. The aim for the Referee, is to leave the ground after the game, satisfied that he has maintained an image that players will respect, and slightly fear! If a Referee shows any sign of weakness, no matter how small, players will increase their attempts at manipulating the Referee to suit their team.

3. A wise Referee makes his own decisions:         Take me back to the top of this page

Call home regularly. Keep in touch! The more that other people know about your movements and whereabouts, the better protected you will be as a Referee. Let your loved ones, family or friends know where you have gone, and what time you are expected to arrive back home. Leave important telephone numbers at home - such as your Referees' Appointment Secretary, or the Home Team contact (secretary or Home Ground contact numbers). The mobile phone is an excellent way of contacting help should the need arise. Taking a mobile phone to games, will increase the confidence and security of a Referee - and will alleviate any concerns of waiting relatives who can make contact with you should you not arrive home on time for genuine reasons. 

Travelling alone: Referees face greater risks when travelling alone. Travel as a team when you can. If you decide to travel alone, female Referees in particular should take extra precautions such as locking all car doors when on the road, having a mobile phone available at all times, and considering any other legal protective devices that are available on the open market. 

Parking your car: On reaching the ground, try and park your car in the best possible position, to enable a quick getaway. Do not park where there is a chance of your car being 'boxed' in. When violence occurs against a Referee, the easiest way to lessen the impact, is to make your escape as quickly and as gracefully as possible - and parking your car will have a big effect on the success of this, should a quick getaway be needed.

Dress smart, and be smart to be safe.

Dress sense: Referees should arrive at matches dressed neatly. Of course, this depends on the level of game. There may be the odd occasion when due to lack of changing rooms at local park grounds, a track suit is a better alternative than a suit and tie. The smarter you are, the more authority you will have in the eyes of the players - this all adds to lessening the level of abuse Referees may receive. Aim to dress 'professionally' - wear a shirt and tie if you can. A Referee arriving in a pair of jeans and ''T' shirt, carrying his kit in plastic shopping bags will do nothing to help lessen conflict. Try and think what others may feel about your appearance. Politicians are always dressed smart, and stride confidently into a room. This gives a strong impression to onlookers. If a politician shuffled into a room to give a speech dressed in jeans and a cardigan, he will not get many votes at the next election. Referees are no different! 


To help avoid unwelcome attention, Referees should take care to cover up their Referees uniform when travelling to games. Leaving exposed Referee equipment on view in the car during games, will also increase the likelihood of damage being inflicted on your vehicle whilst you are officiating. It will also serve to make your car stand out 'like a sore thumb' should anyone wish to confront you alongside your car after the game. Keep your valuables well concealed. 

"If you want the wheels of your car to be stolen whilst officiating a game, park it at the rear of the player's changing rooms, where it cannot be seen!"

4. Knowing the Laws:               Take me back to the top of this page

Knowing the Laws of Associated Football inside-out, will greatly lessen the chance of a Referee being assaulted. There are many instances in every game, when a Referee's judgement and decision making will be called into question. A Referee who learns to apply the Laws consistently and correctly, will have far less trouble to contend with, than a Referee who constantly makes mistakes. Players are very quick to criticise wrong decisions, and constant wrong decision making by a Referee will inevitably lead to a greater degree of confrontation. The Referee should therefore keep abreast with the latest Law developments, and refresh his Law knowledge on a regular basis - this is one of the easiest ways for a Referee to lessen confrontation and assault. A Referee who is strong in his decision-making, and who knows the Laws and their interpretation, will be les likely to generate argument. 

Attending local Referees' Societies and reading the many books of guidance will also build up a Referee's knowledge of football and its constantly changing Laws. Many of the Laws are mandatory, and must be carried out by Referees. Failing to take mandatory Law actions will undoubtedly upset players - and this may lead to violence taking place. Referees should also look closely at the individual League Rules in which they are officiating. Rules can vary considerably, and it is not unusual (for example) for the number of persons allowed within a technical area to differ between different League competition Rules. Knowing the appropriate Rules before each game will ensure that the Referee is aware of the boundaries of his responsibilities for each particular competition; and can apply them confidently. 

5. Keeping up with play:                Take me back to the top of this page

During the award of free kicks, and after instances where the Referee has admonished a player - he should move away quickly towards the anticipated play area. Hanging around will only increase the chances of harassment from players. Irate players will always try and undermine a weak Referee. Referees should therefore never justify their decisions to players - doing so will only lead to further trouble. In such instances, the Referee should move away quickly from the trouble spot (or strongly warn the perpetrator to "stop moaning and move away"). 

6. During Play:                      Take me back to the top of this page

If players spot any weaknesses in the Referee, they will be very quick to try and exploit this to their advantage. It is therefore vitally important for Referees to impart an aura of authority. 

"The greater the aura the Referee can build up around himself, the less trouble he will have."

A Referee needs to project an authoritative image, at the same time as having a sense of humour; and he needs to be able to show genuine concern for injured players. It is a difficult thing to do - but players must get the message, that the Referee will not be easily intimidated by bad behaviour. To be convincing, the Referee will need to officiate in a manner dictated by a good knowledge of the Laws and their interpretation; interspersed with a large dose of common sense.

The reaction of the team players, substitutes, managers, spectators, and how the Referee himself feels on the day, will also effect how his authority will be accepted (or not). Authority can be imparted in several ways: (a) dressing smartly: (b) standing erect: (c) looking players in the eye: (d) punctuality: (e) fitness: (f) experience: (g) reputation: (h) being polite BUT firm: (i) working as a team with the Assistant Referees: (j) making fair decisions: (k) compassion: (l) humour: (m) using common sense: (n) not being over-officious: and most of all, being human. These are only just a few areas that the Referee can consider - for lessening the chances of being assaulted. 

One of the greatest problems for the modern Referee, is how to control the amount and severity of dissent shown towards them. Although it is impossible to act on all cases of dissent shown on the field of play, the Referee will need to use his man-management skills to quickly curb any growing dissent. A Referee who ignores early dissent will undoubtedly be building himself further trouble as the game progresses. Look for an incident early in every game, and make a big deal about it, by publicly admonishing the perpetrator. This sends out a clear message, which more than often, prevents further trouble in the game.

"Ignore all dissent at your peril".

It has been argued that the growing dissent towards Referees witnessed on television at the top levels, make it very difficult for the 'grass-roots' park Referee to control players. But - it may be that the Referee in the top-level match cannot hear the dissent due to the crowd noise! Or the camera has 'panned-in' to witness the dissenting player - but the Referee has turned away to run towards his new position. These are two factors that can make dissent on television look much worse than that experienced at park level. After all, a good Referee when making a decision, does not hang around inviting dissent. Remaining on the scene of minor infringements will only lead to players haranguing the Referee. The Referee will of course need to remain in close proximity following serious infringements of the Laws.

Touching, pushing, pulling or intervening between fighting players may lead to the Referee being abused himself. The Referee should use his whistle, and impart strong words to desist warring players. In situations where players are fighting, the Referee needs to witness events from a nearby safe stand-off point - and not get 'sucked' into the maelstrom of confrontation. This way, he can see the inevitable irate goalkeeper who has run some 50 yards to barge aggressively into the back of an unsuspecting opponent! In situations where a melee of players ensues, the Referee must observe proceedings carefully, and calm players down from a short distance, and not get involved himself by using any physical means. Taking a safe stand-of point will also allow the Referee a few moments to consider what disciplinary action he needs to take. Getting embroiled in situations will not allow the Referee any breathing space to calm players down immediately following a violent confrontation between players.

In situations where a melee of fighting players occurs, and the violence is such that intervention by the Referee is impossible, the Referee can consider abandoning the game. In such circumstances, it is not advisable for the Referee to hang around obtaining the names of the many perpetrators. It is impossible to remember all that happens when a violent melee ensues. If the Referee abandons the game, he should inform anyone who is reasonably well behaved, that the game has been abandoned. He should then retreat to a safe distance to witness any further serious acts of violence. Following this, the Referee should make his exit from the ground as soon as possible. Do not hang around in the hope of obtaining names. A report to the appropriate authorities can be along the lines of:

" I wish to report an incident that occurred at (time of incident) during a match played on (date) at (venue) between (Home team) v (Away Team) in the (name of competition).
Numerous players from both teams converged on the scene and a mass brawl followed.
I witnessed many players grappling with each other and exchanging violent punches and kicks.
The situation was further confused by players (and team officials) from both sides entering the fracas in an attempt to restore order. I blew my whistle loudly several times to no avail.
In the total confusion, it was impossible to be certain of the identities of all the individuals who behaved violently. Rather than attempt to dismiss a large number of players, which would have resulted in further problems, I had no alternative but to abandon the match. It would have been impossible to restore order and calm after such total violence. The facts are therefore reported to you for this misconduct charge against the clubs to be investigated".

The appropriate authorities (AND NOT THE REFEREE) are responsible for investigating the facts.

When controlling games, the Referee should be an example to those watching - of how to behave under impossible circumstances.

There are several views on whether a Referee should show the yellow or red card or not before taking a player's particulars. Common sense dictates that at park level, if you are cautioning a player, it is better to firstly tell that player that you are cautioning him. This way, the player knows that he is not being sent-off, and this can have an effect in calming that player down. It also tells the player that any further misdemeanours may lead to a sending off - this may stop the player from committing another offence. Conversely, before sending a player off, the Referee should ask the name of the player before showing the red card. This way, the Referee obtains the name before the inevitable backlash of incredulity. Showing the red card before taking a player's particulars will only make that player even more angry, and he may possibly leave the field of play without having given the Referee his name - and 'more fool' the Referee who tries to obtain the players name after this!
Of course, Referees will need to read their local League or Football Association stipulations, and local area/Country advice on the procedure for 'showing cards' before deciding how to deal with players themselves. In higher competitions, Referees are provided with team-sheets listing all of the players and their respective team numbers. And at the very top of the Referee profession, they are provided with a video of the game itself. This makes if far more easier when disciplining players whose names are already well known by everyone because of their constant media coverage. Top Referees only need to note the number of any infringing player - whereas park Referees will certainly need to take more details. 

Those Referees (the majority of us) who officiate at grass roots will have to rely on good old 'man-management', memory, and the trusty old Referees notepad! Whatever system you use, be careful how you apply it, and certainly do not apply it in a 'showy' way that will further incense an already angry player. The card should be shown at an arm's length above the Referees head, away from, and to the side of the player, in a calm and un-provocative manner - and not shoved right up under the player's nose! Hold the card there for 2 or three seconds to allow all concerned to witness the disciplinary action you have taken.

The advice from the FA England, on how to show cards is shown below. This can be found in the FA booklet, 'Advice on the Application of the Laws of the Game':

(4) Use of red and yellow cards

The Law requires referees to use these cards at all levels of the game. The mandatory use of the cards is merely a simple aid for better communication. Referees should not use either card in an aggressive or provocative manner likely to inflame an already emotive situation. Neither should the cards be used in an over-demonstrative manner, which may humiliate a player and perhaps cause him to over-react. The sequence of action approved by The Football Association and which should be followed is:

i) State that the player is being cautioned;
ii) Enquire his name;
iii) Warn him about his future conduct;
iv) Show a yellow card as described above.

Obviously, a red card will be used for a dismissal, unless that dismissal is for a 'second caution in the same match', in which case a yellow card will be shown immediately before the red card. However, referees operating at International and some National levels have the option to show red and yellow cards immediately after offences or as above, but only in exceptional circumstances such as to defuse a possible flash point or to prevent an act of retaliation. If a player is about to be sent from the field of play for sending off offences 1-6, it is advisable to enquire his name prior to the sending off.

If a player commits either a cautionable or a sending off offence during the half time interval, he must also be shown the appropriate card(s) but, once the final whistle has been blown, similar offences will be treated as misconduct, reported as such and red or yellow cards must not be used.

If a named substitute commits an act of misconduct, he will be treated as a player, including being shown a yellow card or a red card depending on the offence. If he, at a later stage in the match, commits a further cautionable offence, he shall be sent from the field of play and shown a yellow card followed by a red card. This will apply even if he is acting as an assistant referee.

Although the Law requires a referee to show a yellow card to a player as part of the cautioning procedure, failure to do so does not mean that a caution has not been administered and the player concerned will be dealt with in accordance with the laid-down disciplinary procedures.

End of the advice from the FA England, on how to show cards.

Arrogance is a stance that Referees should never take, as this will undoubtedly inflame players and lead to further problems. Nobody likes being humiliated in front of their friends. No mater how disgusting a player's behaviour is towards you, the Referee must retain his dignity, and deal with players as you (the Referee) would wish to be dealt with. Players have been known to have very long memories, and an act of arrogance by the Referee will not be easily forgotten - and stored in the memory of players for future use on (or off) the field of play. 

Maintaining his authority, even when all those around him are maiming his authority is the duty of a Referee.

The Referee is the figurehead of the Football Association, and is there to ensure that fair play is adhered to. Law 5 lists the Powers and Duties given to the Referee by the Football Association, they are not to be used by the Referee for any personal show of superiority or one-upmanship. There are occasions when the Referee will need to be firm when dealing with discipline matters. The trick is to remain calm - at the same time, making sure that any player being cautioned is fully aware that if he commits a further offence, he may be sent off the field of play. If a player decides to re-tie his bootlaces whilst you are about to discipline him, politely ask him to stand up before you speak to him.

There is invariably an incident in many games that will turn the nature of the game from one of being contested in a 'gentlemanly manner (no apologies for using that phrase), to one of all-out war. Referees must therefore be alert and keep a sharp look out for these 'turning points', and act swiftly to prevent a major incident becoming more serious. A typical example, is following a penalty decision. Players will feel aggrieved - and it could be argued that the Referee, by awarding the penalty, has created the flash point himself. It is therefore vitally important for each Referee to gain as much experience as possible - thus minimising those dubious penalty (and other) dubious type decisions. The Referee is never going to please everyone, but can do a lot to help himself avoid and minimise trouble.

Common sense and the 'spirit of the game' are much talked about. These are the drivers that ensure football (soccer) retains its sporting ethos. Players diving to try and get penalties awarded, pulling of shirts, verbal antagonising and unsporting behaviour are all areas, that if minimised and properly dealt with, can actually result in the Referee having more control of the game, and lessening the chance of trouble coming his way. Players will not be too happy if the Referee lets one team 'get away' with any acts of gamesmanship. 

As soon as any conflict materialises, the Referee should look around for the best position, to have the perpetrator(s) in front of him - at the same time as being able to view most of the remaining players on the field of play. This may mean shifting position to entice troublemakers into a position that suits the Referee and not them. Referees should ensure that there is a protection zone between themselves and the perpetrator. A conflict can be anything from a simple cautioning of a player, to dealing with an irate melee of approaching players. 


"By reacting quickly to incidents, the Referee will be able to sell his decisions. It will also emphasise that he is concentrating, in charge, and prepared to act decisively - all positive images that will help his game. Rapid [correct!] decisions followed by quick restarts will also reduce the opportunities that players have to argue about the Referee's decision. By the time they've worked out how to respond, the game is under way and the Referee is gone away."
[JIM JOHNSTON, JOHN TARLING AND JOHN MARCINIAK - AUSTRALIAN SOCCER REFEREES FEDERATION (South Australian Division) INC #26 INSPECTORS' & INSTRUCTORS' INSIGHTS #26 THE IN THING : MAY/JUNE 2003]

See the ABC of Conflict page for advice on how to deal with disciplining players on the field of play.

7. Trouble with Team Officials:                Take me back to the top of this page

 Law 5 furnishes the Referee with the Powers and Duties to discipline and report any instances committed by team officials (and just about anybody else) taking place before, during or after the game. Dealing with the technical area is a skill in itself. The Referee will need to learn how to balance 'turning a deaf ear' with ' wielding a big stick'. Man-management plays an important factor - so does a match 'turning point', peoples' perception, and tribal team loyalty. A quiet word with any perpetrators may save further trouble. But please do not forget, that the occupants of the technical area are supposed to behave in a proper manner. In real life, this very rarely happens. Confronting the technical area occupants can be one of the most daunting moments for the Referee. Be sure of your facts, and only approach if you intend to take warning or disciplinary action. The majority of remarks should just be ignored. Deciding which diagonal to run, may also alleviate having to constantly run within earshot of the technical areas. A Referee can induce antagonism by just standing still near the technical areas. So if it is possible, don't make matters worse by selecting a diagonal that places you constantly near the technical area. Make sure you know the regulations concerning the number and type of persons allowed within the technical area. Infiltrators will only serve to make matters worse. Look at the individual competition Rules, and feel comfortable in the knowledge that if you (the Referee) have to deal with the technical area - you do so fully conversant with it's specific Rule and Law stipulations.

It is very important for Referees to understand that football is an emotive game, and whereas the players and the Referee are free to run around and get rid of their frustrations on a huge field of play, the technical area occupants are confined to a tiny space shared by many. It is no wonder that frustrations overspill. 

Very often (particularly at the lower levels) the Rules covering technical area are not understood by the occupants. In such cases, the Referee should quietly remind any troublemakers of how they are expected to behave, and explain the punishment for not doing so. If you are lucky, a rapport may be built up between the Referee and the technical area. Retaining a sense of humour is permitted when the situation warrants it, but only when the occupants are behaving themselves. In the more senior levels of football, some of the occupants may have had years of footballing experience behind them. So be aware that they must be treated with respect at all times. A quite word usually suffices to calm down the odd expostulation. Do not get involved in close combat arguments - the best course of action is to swiftly, and firmly deal with potential trouble, and then move away and restart the game as quick as possible. This gives the occupants something else to concentrate on, instead of lambasting you at close quarters. 

"I liken this action to an eagle swooping in on its prey, dealing with it, and then swooping quickly away out of danger."

The Referee and his Assistants are often seen as being 'easy prey'. So the Referee should not prey upon the technical area.

Staying around to pick at the vitriol will only lead to you (the Referee) being picked at yourself. And finally - ignore ALL the comments at your peril. There will be times when the Referee will need to deal firmly and take the necessary discipline action against offenders by moving them out of the technical area and away from the near vicinity of the field of play. Allowing disgusting behaviour to persist from the technical area, will undoubtedly lead to serious problems later on in the game.

8. Once the Game has Finished:              Take me back to the top of this page

A great deal of argument may ensue following the end of a game. This is the time when players, managers, coaches and spectators tend to vent their spleen towards the Referee and his Assistants. The best piece of advice, is for Referees to stay as far away as possible from any areas that look as though confrontation may arise. To achieve this, Referees should either make their way back to the dressing rooms before the players do - or better still, wait until all the players have disappeared. In other words, try to keep away from the players at all times after the game. This is not always possible - but keeping a maximum distance will ensure that confrontation is minimised. Conversely, there will be times (e.g. when two teams are arguing amongst themselves after the game) that the presence of the Referee in close quarters will have a calming effect. In other words - if they are aware of the Referee's presence, they may desist with their arguments. 

When a team loses a game, it is normally always the fault of the Referee (so the players would have us believe). The Referee and his Assistants should meet together as soon as possible after the final whistle is blown at the end of each half. This procedure is not done for 'show', but to increase their protection as a team, should matters boil over. Notwithstanding this, the Referee has a duty to observe and report any misdemeanours occurring after the game has ended. Any requests to NOT report misconduct should be strongly waved away - it is the Referees' duty to report all misconduct. If he doesn't, then the next Referee who officiates that same team on the following week could find himself in deeper trouble because of your weakness. There will always be the odd 'moan or two' about decisions made on the field of play - most of these should just be ignored. By just being in close proximity, the Referee can (without actually doing anything) provoke a spontaneous outburst from irate players. 

"The greater the distance - the greater the peace stance".

Immediately following the end the match, Referees should not involve themselves with discussing decisions made on the field of play. Of course, there is nothing wrong in discussing points of play, but these can be more amicably discussed after the players have had a few minutes or so to calm down. Referees should never enter the team dressing rooms uninvited, and certainly not after the game.
There will be many occasions when irate managers and coaches will 'knock on the Referees door' to gain entry into the Referee changing room to vent their anger and frustration. Referees are within their rights to refuse admission. One method of moderating such intrusions is to purchase a mini-tape recorder (or Dictaphone) and place it on the table for any intruders to see. It does not matter whether it is recording or not - its obvious presence will certainly make any irate interlopers think very carefully about what they say to the Referee in his changing room. Of course, any such recorded outbursts could prove very useful as evidence if the Referee needs to report misconduct should matters get out of hand.

"Sadly, there will be times - even when Referees have minimised the risk - that they will be assaulted. Sadly- such is life."

9. List of what Referees should do if they are assaulted:     Take me back to the top of this page

Below are some of the actions that a Referee can take if they have been assaulted. 

This is not a definitive listing, and is not meant to supersede any local Referees' advice provided in your local area. It is here as an aid-memoir for those who need it:

A pamphlet entitled "Assaults on Match Officials" is available from the UK Referees' Association.

To Contact the Referees Association England:- 

Address:-
The Referees' Association, 
1 Westhill Road, Coundon, 
Coventry. 
CV6 2AD

Telephone
02476 601701

Fax 
02476 601556

E-mail ra@footballreferee.org


1. If an assault occurs before or during the game, the Referee will need to decide whether or not to abandon the game. This includes being fully in control both mentally and physically. In other words, are you fully capable of controlling the game? As a general rule, the game should be abandoned. Never react to an assault yourself. Keep your composure and do not lose your temper. Blow your whistle to end the game, and confirm this to the team captains (or the Club Officials at the touchline) as you leave the field of play. You should remove yourself from the location as soon as possible. Collect your clothes immediately, and depart in your Refereeing kit.

2. Consider the severity of any assault or injury. Do not attempt to drive if you are in shock or are seriously injured. Contact your family or friends as soon as you can after the assault. You may need them to collect you. 

Note: The body reacts to traumatic shock by directing more blood to the arteries supplying the vital organs (e.g. brain heart and kidneys) at the expense of those supplying the less important tissue (e.g. muscle and skin). Symptoms of shock include, feeling weak, faint, giddy anxious and restless. Casualty may vomit, feel thirsty, breath shallow and rapidly inducing yawning and sighing. Skin becomes pale or grey in colour (particularly the lips), cold and moist with sweat. Pulse increases and but becomes weaker and sometimes irregular as the blood/fluid drops. Unconsciousness may develop. There may be evidence of associated external or internal injury. First aid treatment involves reassuring the casualty, keeping the head low by lying down and turning the head to one side to increase blood to the brain and lessen the dangers of vomiting. Do not unduly move the patient. The legs should be raised - but not if a leg is fractured. Keep warm but do not apply a hot water bottle. Loosen any tight clothing. Do not have anything to drink (this will delay any subsequent administration of anaesthetic for emergency treatment to any serious injury) - but the lips can be moistened. No smoking allowed. Shock can materialise many hours after the incident, so look out for any of these symptoms - particularly if you are driving home alone. Seek medical attention immediately. Shock can kill.

3. Seek immediate medical attention for any serious injuries received. Retain any receipts for medical expenditure and any additional travelling expenses incurred because of any injury. For example, you may need to pay for your car to be collected from the ground and delivered to your home - or for any taxi fares to and from hospital. Also keep a record of any loss of earnings. Costs may be recoverable from the person concerned, under an award by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority or under any insurance cover you may have.

4. Only if it is safe to do so - try and obtain the names and contact details of any witnesses to the assault. Consult your Assistant Referees. Ideally, witnesses should be independent persons who will have clearly seen the incident. But others who maybe did not see the entire incident, but witnessed what happened afterwards, may also be able to provide useful evidence. Do not allow your senior Assistant Referee to take over a match that you have abandoned.

Try to identify, and obtain details of the person who committed the assault. This includes players, substitutes, Club Officials or representatives. The Home Club is also responsible for reporting misbehaviour by spectators. Players who assault the Referee should (if possible) be shown the Red card and dismissed from the field of play. If because of your injury, it is not possible to send off the player, you may be able to inform the Captain later, that this player will be reported for his action. If you feel that showing the red card will exasperate the situation even further, then do not do so!
If the perpetrator is a Club Trainer, you must decide whether his presence on the touchline presents a threat to your match control during the rest of the game. If you decide to continue with the game, but the Club Trainer interferes with the game again, then the game can be abandoned.

5. If you are injured as the result of an assault on you, report the matter to the police. Give them the name of the person(s) who assaulted you - or if this is not available, supply them with as much detail as you can concerning a contact point for the team involved. If it is necessary, immediately call the Police or the Ambulance for medical attention. Serious incidents should be reported to the Police, who will ask you to provide a statement of what happened (which should be along the lines of your match report of the incident). It is important to ensure that your match report of the incident is 'water-tight' because you may be liable to cross-examination of its content (and any other written material you supply to the FA) if the decision to prosecute goes ahead, and the accused pleads not guilty. Ask the Police for a crime reference number - a copy of any statements made will not normally be provided, but there is no harm in asking for a copy. Where there is clear evidence of an unprovoked attack, the Police will decide whether a prosecution can be expected. If the Police decide not to prosecute, then you are still entitled to apply for a private assault summons (private prosecution or a civil claim) from your local magistrate's court. Financial assistance for this may be available on application to the Football Association or County FA, or the Referees' Association.

6. Take photographs as soon as possible, of any injuries you have received. Keep a full record of any injury or any other loss.

7. When you get home, make copious additional notes describing the incident in full. You can refer to these at a later stage should you be required to do so.

8. Send in the appropriate misconduct reports detailing the incident. Keep a copy for yourself. If because of the injuries you have received you are unable to report the incident immediately - get someone else to do this for you, or if you are able, report the details to your Disciplinary Secretary by telephone, giving reasons for any delay in providing a written report. Your report to the FA must be consistent with any statements that you have made to the Police. And should include details of any witnesses, and the names of your Assistant Referees. Mark the report clearly in RED with "Assault Case" to make it easily identifiable. Instruct your Assistant Referees to submit their own separate reports of the incident.

9. Give details of the assault to your local Referees Society/Association and your County/Area Referee representative and the General Secretary of your National Referees Association. Financial help may be available for legal proceedings and for any injuries received. 

10. Inform the Referees' Appointment Secretary of the league in which the team plays in. If the team involved is affiliated to a County/State outside of your own County/State - contact your local Football Association for details of where to send the report.

11. If because of injuries sustained - you can not officiate in any future allocated matches - let the appropriate League Referees' appointment secretaries know - so that other officials can be allocated to your games. 

12. Keep any interested parties fully informed with all proceedings at any stage, whilst the assault is being investigated - including details of any prosecution as the result of action being taken against the perpetrator(s) by the police.
The above assumes that the Referee belongs to a recognised Referees Association and/or Football Association. It is important for Referees to join such Associations - if only for the insurance cover provided against being assaulted.

There are many ways in which the Referee can look after himself and minimise assault. 

If the advice given above prevents just one assault - it would have been well worth the writing.

Above all - keep safe.

Regards
Julian Carosi (webmaster)
www.corshamref.net
County of Wiltshire
England

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