Communication Tool Pt. 2
Our voice is a valuable tool that can be used at any time during a match. You can, even while play is going on, use your voice to warn players about actions you have seen and will no longer tolerate and you can use your voice to prevent minor issues from escalating into future problems. Your voice can also be used to let players know that you are close by and are watching them. You can let targeted players know that you are there and will protect them from unfair challenges. You can also let players know when they made a good play, saved a goal or are working hard.
Our voice can help diffuse many situations, it can keep us in control of the game, let the players know that we are there as part of their game and will do our job to make sure they have a safe and enjoyable time.
Once you have spoken to a player, the behavior does not improve and you find yourself needing to issue a card, it will not come as a surprise to anyone watching the game.
You will not lose control and you will gain more respect for it.
Many more referees should use their voice to communicate with players and not rely entirely on the whistle or the cards to be their sole communication tools.
Too many whistles, just like too much idle talk, will create a distraction and take away from the game for the players and spectators so it is important for referees to recognize how and when to use these communication tools in the most productive and non-intrusive manner.
Conversely, an incomplete or lack of communication by the referee will lead to misunderstandings, frustration, dissent and lack of trust and respect.
