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Field Umpires
Manual
2014
EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL VAFA UMPIRES
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Strive for an excellent knowledge and understanding of the Laws, their interpretations and the Spirit
of the Laws
Train regularly with purpose and enthusiasm
Attend and participate fully in coaching sessions
Seek continual self-improvement
Attempt to apply feedback from your coaches
Be open, honest and approachable in your communication with your coaches and the football
community
Be loyal and supportive of your colleagues
Build positive relationships with the football community
Take pride in the job that you’re doing
Be a role model in behaviour and personal appearance
Place the safety and welfare of the match participants above all else
TRAINING & COACHING
All field umpires are expected to train at least once a week at any of the three training venues: Elsternwick
Park, Fitzroy or Werribee. Coaching sessions will also be conducted at these venues.
APPOINTMENTS
All umpires are expected to advise if they are not available for a particular day by completing the details on
Schedula. Otherwise, the assumption is that every umpire is available on every day.
Umpires who fail to advise of their unavailability at least 7 days before the scheduled match will not be
appointed for the following round (unless exceptional circumstances arise).
You will be sent an email by Wednesday before the weekend’s matches advising of your appointment. You
must log on and accept the appointment as soon as practicable.
PREPARING TO UMPIRE
On the day before the match you should pack your bag with the following:
VAFA shirt
VAFA shorts
VAFA socks
VAFA jacket
2 white sweatbands
Towel
Acme Thunderer whistle
Note Pad & Pen
Garters or Tape for socks
Water bottle
Runners (predominantly white)
Boots (predominantly white)
Red, Yellow, Black cards
VAFA Handbook
It is essential that you arrive at the ground a minimum of 45 minutes before the game starts.
You should arrive at the ground neatly dressed: this includes a shirt with a collar and black or navy trousers.
About 30 minutes before the start of the match, you should visit both clubs and request the two footballs from
the home club.
Meet the captains and if possible the coaches and team managers of each team. It is important to remember
the captains’ names and numbers as you should use their names when you call them for the toss and to seek
their approval to commence the match before you hold the ball aloft to start the match.
Take the spare ball back to the home club and prepare yourself for the match. This should include stretching
and discussing with the other umpires the match plan. It is important that EVERY UMPIRE knows the name of
each umpire in the TEAM for that particular match. Also, ensure that there are no valuables left in the umpires
room.
About 5 to 7 minutes before the scheduled starting time (or until the earlier match finishes), walk out as a
team. When you’re about 15 metres out, hold the ball aloft and wait for the siren. If no siren is blown, keep
walking to the centre circle (don’t blow your whistle if there is no siren).
About 2 to 3 minutes before the start of the match, call both captains in to the centre square (do NOT use your
whistle to gain their attention) and ask someone close by (an umpire escort or goal umpire) for a coin to decide
which end each team will kick towards. The away captain calls heads or tails and the winner of the toss chooses
which end they will kick towards first. Make sure that ALL umpires are aware to which direction each time is
kicking.
After the coin toss, both teams should move into position. Once they are ready to commence, check with the
other field umpire and hold the ball above your head and wait for the siren. When the siren is blown, blow
your whistle and throw the ball up or bounce it to commence the game.
CHANGES IN 2014
The only CHANGES to the Laws in relation to the VAFA for 2014 are as follows:
The word UNDULY has been added to Law 15.4.5 d in relation to MARKING CONTESTS. As in past
years, players cannot PUSH, BUMP, BLOCK, HOLD or INTERFERE WITH THE ARMS in a marking
contest. The rationale behind adding the word ‘unduly’ is to clarify that not all holds or pushes are
worth penalising if they have no effect on the contest.
Most VAFA umpires have been interpreting the law in this ‘common sense’ way so there should
really be no change to how it is interpreted in 2014.
Note that the AFL has maintained its ‘hands in the back’ interpretation but this has never been and is
still NOT used in the VAFA.
Last year umpires were penalising players when there was ANY contact below the knees. This has
been changed in 2014; the contact must be FORCEFUL.
Also, a free kick may be paid for a reckless action, even if an opponent has evaded the contact. This is
similar in nature to the interpretation of kicking in a dangerous manner where a free kick can be paid
regardless of whether contact has occurred.
MATCH PLANS
All umpires at any level of football should go into a match fully prepared.
It is an expectation for all field umpires in the VAFA in 2014 that they prepare a simple Match Plan.
This contains general information such as the key team personnel, ground location, predicted
weather etc.
All umpires should be prepared to discuss their own personal Game Plan with their fellow umpires
and their coaches or observers.
The personal Game Plan is a set of rules and guidelines that an umpire aims to implement into
his/her match in order to optimise performance.
Most umpires’ Game Plans will contain 3 to 5 statements which most likely wouldn’t change from
week to week. These might include:
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Protect the ball player
Pay all infringements
Take control when appropriate
Communicate effectively
Run hard
Bounce straight
Work as a team
No unwarranted
Work the angles
100% effort, 100% of the time
Focus on the player with the ball
In the section headed Key Points, umpires might list a specific point related to one of the above
statements or list a focus noted in previous observations.
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Consistent and clear handovers
Push up as #2 at stoppages
Keep the game moving with quick ball ups
Early reminders to ruckman to remain a metre apart
Get in to set up the mark quickly, especially near the boundary
Strong work rate all day
VAFA FIELD UMPIRES MATCH PLAN
PRE-GAME EVALUATION
Date
Round
Match
Ground knowledge
Partner Umpire/s
Boundary & Goal umpires
Predicted Weather
Home Team
Coach
Captain
Previous results
Knowledge of team
Away Team
Coach
Captain
Previous results
Knowledge of team
PERSONAL GAME PLAN
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5
Key Points
Name ___________________________
TWO UMPIRE SYSTEM
Position at Ball Ups
The umpire starting play walks in to throw the ball up. The #2 umpire is positioned just between the
arc and the edge of the centre square at one end of the ground.
Change of Control
After the ball up, the umpire will keep control of the play until the play heads towards #2. The #2
umpire must constantly adjust his or her position and must wait until the umpire in control initiates a
change of control.
After relinquishing control, the umpire should not switch off. He or she needs to be ready for the
next act of play.
After a goal is scored, the umpire who gives the all clear runs back to the starting position for #2 and
the other umpire prepares for the ball up.
Set kick at goal likely to score
The umpire in control sets up the mark and then backs off on an angle towards the goals. The #2
umpire should be in the vicinity of the kicker as an extra support for the protected area. If the kick is
within 20 metres of goal or closer this is not necessary.
If the kick is within about 40 to 50 metres from goal the umpire in control should tap his or her
partner through. In this situation the umpire who is tapped through should be positioned about 20
metres from goal.
Boundary Throw-Ins
The umpire’s initial position should be on the opposite side of the No. 2 umpire; the only exception is
when the throw-in is less than a kick from goal.
The initial position of the field umpire should be approximately 15 metres from the boundary umpire
and 5 metres from the boundary line. As the ball is thrown back into play, the field umpire should
begin running with the flight of the ball and end up side on to the ruck contest, just as the ball hits
the ruckmen’s hands. After the contest, the umpire should attempt to get back inside play or adjust
position according to where the play heads.
Positioning for Kick-In after a Behind
The umpire in control should be positioned about 15 metres from the top of the goal square. As the
ball is kicked, the umpire should run to a position 20-25 metres away and side on to the next contest.
The # 2 umpire should initially be positioned just behind the congregating players near centre half
back and observing any huddles that form at the kick-in. After the kick, #2 should adjust his or her
position to remain about a kick away from the other umpire.
Indications
When the umpire in control keeps the play her or she must indicate by tapping his or her chest on
the side which is more visible to #2. He or she should also call out ME when keeping the play and call
out YOU when relinquishing control.
THREE UMPIRE SYSTEM (changes from last year in italics)
Initial set up
The two end zone umpires should be situated on the opposite corners to the boundary umpires near the 45
metre arc. After every goal, the umpire who gives the all clear remains at that end. The other two umpires
rotate their positions.
Play coming out of defence
As a general principle, there should be a change of control every time the ball crosses the 45 metre arc. This
applies to long kicks out of defence as well as when running players in the clear cross the arc.
Mid Zone
The same principles apply as in the two umpire system. The controlling umpire should be about 20 metres from
the play constantly adjusting his or her position. At set plays the umpire should back off about 10 to 15 metres
at 45 degrees unless the kick is going to obviously result in a change of control.
Long kicks from the mid zone to just inside the arc might result in a change of control if the end zone umpire is
in a better position. Therefore, the end zone umpires need to be near the top of the arc, constantly adjusting
their position.
The mid zone umpire should spend no more than 3 minutes at a time in the mid zone. End zone umpires need
to look for opportunities to rotate positions. This could be at a behind, ball up, boundary throw in or set play.
Umpires should always back out towards the major axis at ball ups.
Forward Plays
In the end zone there are 3 scenarios that usually occur: a running player from the middle kicks the ball or runs
into the end zone, a set shot comes from mid to end, a set shot comes from CHF. You have to work out which
position will be best in order to be side on to any contest.
The end zone umpires should always be side on to effectively adjudicate contests. As the play heads towards
you, you need to be boundary side, even outside the boundary if necessary.
For set shots in the one umpire area (within 35 metres of goal) the end zone umpire should be close to the
mark and constantly looking back and forth. Run with the kick if there is a chance of a contest on the goal line.
The mid zone umpire should have a presence within the vicinity of the player with the ball.
All set plays further than 35 metres out should result in tap throughs either on your chest or bum. Talk to each
other but try to avoid looking back and maybe missing a quick play on situation.
As an end zone umpire there may be periods where you are not involved for quite a while. Keep up your
concentration and ensure that when the play does come your way that you are ready for it, i.e. side on to the
contest. Look for opportunities to switch with the umpire in the mid zone.
Boundary Throw ins
Umpires should not change control at boundary throw ins unless one umpire has been in one zone for an
extended period of time. Rather, they should tap themselves to indicate they are keeping the play and the
other umpire should change zones.
Set kick control
When the mid zone umpire pays a free kick near the back end of the square, the end zone umpire should be in
the vicinity as a support at the mark. This might allow the mid zone umpire to get in better position for the next
act of play. The mid zone umpire may keep the play for short kicks across the ground or just into the mid zone.
Incidents
As there are three umpires, there should always be at least one umpire who can keep the game going. At the
end of an incident , the umpires should come together and compare notes re send offs, reports etc.
THREE UMPIRE TEAM RULES
 No umpire should spend any more than 3 minutes in one zone at a time (look
for switches at BTIs, kick ins, field ball ups, any other undue delay; even double
switches after goals)
 At each BTI and field ball up there must be an adjacent zone umpire on that
side of the ground as a support
 MZ umpires need to back off at 45 degrees unless the kick will obviously result
in a change of control
 MZ umpires need to keep the play to about 40 metres from goal
 EZ umpires will usually relinquish control when the ball comes out of the arc
 EZ umpires should be constantly adjusting their position as play heads towards
them; they need to start just inside the arc (boundary side is preferred)
 At centre ball ups the position of the EZ umpires should be close to the edge of
the centre square (maybe even just inside to be more effective, if needed due
to match conditions)
 BTIs and field ball ups close to the arc (just inside or outside) are always the
responsibility of the MZ umpire
 When out of zone free kicks are paid, the umpire who pays them should take
“ownership” of the free kick
 Advantage cannot be called when out of zone free kicks are paid
LAWS & INTERPRETATIONS
TACKLING THE PLAYER IN POSSESSION
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A player in possession of the ball and tackled illegally will be awarded a free kick
The player who has possession of the ball and is tackled correctly by an opponent shall be
given a reasonable time to kick or handball or attempt to kick or handball the ball
The player who has possession of the ball and has had an opportunity to dispose of it and is
then tackled correctly by an opponent, must immediately kick or handball the ball
The ball shall be kept in motion
To pay holding the ball there must be a legal tackle
A bump is NOT a tackle
A push in the side or front is NOT a tackle
Knocking a player’s arm is NOT a tackle
Knocking the ball out of a player’s grasp (unless this is also part of a tackle) is NOT a tackle
A tackle above the shoulders (including on top of the shoulders) or below the knees is NOT a legal
tackle
RUCK CONTESTS
If the ball is taken out of the ruck, WAIT… If there is a legal tackle and the player does not kick or
handball immediately (after the tackle), it is HOLDING THE BALL.
If it is a poor throw in, bounce or ball up, recall it.
DIVING ON THE BALL or DRAGGING IT IN
When a player dives on the ball or drags it in, WAIT… Don’t be in a rush to ball it up. Wait and see if
there is a legal tackle. If there is, the player who dragged the ball in must knock it clear immediately
after he is tackled.
If a team mate of the “diver” is holding the ball in, that is a huge clue that holding the ball should be
paid. However, there still must be a tackle.
Falling on the ball after being bumped or tackled is NOT diving on the ball. In this instance, the player
on the ball must make an ATTEMPT when tackled.
PRIOR OPPORTUNITY
Prior opportunity is regarded as having taken 3 steps OR being spun at least 360 degrees OR already
having beaten one tackle but not the second. If any of these occur and there is a legal tackle, the
attempt to kick or handball must be successful or holding the ball should be paid.
NO PRIOR OPPORTUNITY
An attempt to kick or handball is OK. But again, to pay holding the ball, WAIT… and see if the player
does not make a genuine attempt to dispose of the ball.
DROPPING THE BALL
There is no wording in the Laws about dropping the ball. However, when players just release the ball
before or after being tackled AND in your opinion it is not an attempt to kick they should be
penalised for holding the ball. The same applies when players bounce the ball just before or when
tackled.
To put it correctly, they are penalised for incorrect disposal.
25 METRE PENALTIES
After a mark or free kick has been awarded, a 25 metre penalty will be awarded against the opposing
team if a player unduly delays the play or abuses an umpire.
Umpires must signal time on. The mark is advanced towards the centre of the goal line. If the
recipient of the 25 metre penalty is less than 25 metres from the goal line, the mark shall become
the centre of the goal line.
If a team mate of a player with the ball is infringed less than 25 metres away from a set play, then a
25 metre penalty is awarded rather than a downfield free kick. (16.7 b)
If an umpire needs to impose three consecutive 25 metre penalties, the umpire should consider
reporting the offending player for time wasting.
If a player runs more than 5 metres over the mark in his pursuit of a player who has marked the
football, a 25 metre penalty should be imposed automatically.
If a player takes an uncontested mark and is then grabbed, it is an automatic 25 metre penalty.
If an opposition player enters the protected area at a set play but is following or accompanying a
team mate of the kicker within 5 metres, a 25 metre penalty is NOT awarded. (18.1 e)
Umpires must be proactive with their setting of the mark by using effective communication and
observation skills. Many 25 metre penalties could be avoided if umpires were more diligent in their
set kick control.
Players are not entitled to a free hit if their opponent takes a mark.
FORCEFUL CONTACT BELOW THE KNEES
This Law does not apply to smothers with the hands or arms
This Law is designed to discourage players from going to ground to gain possession
Players are not permitted to slide knees or feet first into their opponent
If players elect to slide in and make forceful contact below the knees of an opponent it is a free kick.
If players elect to go to ground and make forceful contact below the knees of an opponent it is a free
kick (even if it was in pursuit of the ball and even if it wasn’t a slide). A player being knocked off his
feet is a useful cue for the umpire.
If players elect to go to ground or slide in and make little contact it is NOT a free kick in 2014.
If players elect to go to ground or slide in AND MAKE NO CONTACT, IF IT IS CONSIDERED A RECKLESS
ACTION it could still be penalised under this new interpretation.
RUCK CONTESTS
The player whose sole objective is to contest the ruck shall be permitted to do so.
The players contesting the ruck must remain one metre apart until the ball leaves the umpire’s hand. This
applies for ball ups and boundary throw ins.
If there is a high or early leap, it is permitted if the ball is touched and the leap is all in one action.
If the jumper is slightly held but it doesn’t affect the contest, it should be play on.
If one ruckman puts out an arm and prevents the other ruckman from getting to the contest, it is a free kick.
If high contact is made which is coincidental and doesn’t affect the contest, it should be play on.
When a ruckman takes the ball out of the ruck, it is holding the ball ONLY if he is tackled legally and he FAILS to
kick or handball immediately.
At CENTRE BOUNCES, one player from each team must have both feet inside the outer circle. When contesting
the ruck contest, if the ruckman’s foot touches the circle or steps outside, it is a free kick to the nearest
opposition player. This should only be paid for obvious breaches such as fully stepping out of the circle. It’s
better to warn players first if they’re getting close to being penalised.
If there is no ruckman in the circle, then that team cannot contest the ruck. It is only a free kick if a player from
his team steps inside the circle. Communication is the key here; we shouldn’t have to penalise players for this;
better to be aware as the ball is being returned to the centre and warn the ruckman.
The ruckmen may cross the line as soon as the ball leaves the umpire’s hand.
At FIELD BOUNCES & BOUNDARY THROW INS, any number of players may contest the ruck.
MARKING CONTESTS
The player whose sole objective is to contest a mark shall be permitted to do so.
NO TYPE OF PUSH IS PERMITTED IN A MARKING CONTEST. (front, side, back). Note the adding of the word
UNDULY in 2014 means that a push must be a push. Contact to a player that has no effect on the contest is NOT
a free kick.
THE DISTANCE FROM THE BALL IS IRRELEVANT. SOME UMPIRES AND PLAYERS BELIEVE A SIDE PUSH IS
PERMITTED IF THE BALL IS WITHIN 5 METRES. THERE IS NO SUCH LAW.
If there is a high or early leap, it is permitted if the ball is touched and the leap is all in one action. If a player
pushes his opponent out and then attempts the mark, it should be a free kick.
The AFL/VFL interpretation of “hands in the back” is only an interpretation. It does NOT apply in the VAFA. If a
player has his hands in his opponent’s back but it is not affecting the contest, it should be Play On. For a free
kick to be paid in this circumstance there needs to be two actions, i.e. push and then contest the mark.
If the jumper is slightly held but it doesn’t affect the contest, it should be play on.
If high contact is made which is coincidental and doesn’t affect the contest, it should be play on.
Just because a player coming from behind charges at the ball, knocks it away and in the process knocks over
the man in front, he should not be penalised provided his objective was the ball.
DELIBERATE OUT OF BOUNDS
A free kick shall be awarded against a player who:
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intentionally kicks, handballs or forces the football over the boundary line without the
football being touched by another player
hits the football out of bounds on the full from a boundary throw or a field bounce or throw
by a field umpire.
The primary consideration is:
What is the player’s intention?
The secondary considerations are:
What is the level of force?
What pressure is the player under?
Is there a team mate in the vicinity?
Generally, if there are team mates near where the ball is kicked or handballed, a player should not be
penalised for deliberate out of bounds. In other words, if it could be deemed that the ball was
intended for the team mate, only a throw in should result.
If the ball is handballed or knocked into the behind post and a player is under little pressure,
deliberate out of bounds would be the correct decision.
If a player is under very little pressure and kicks or knocks the ball towards the boundary but the ball
doesn’t go in a direct line or with much force or bobbles over the boundary line, he should not be
penalised.
A defensive knock over the boundary line should never be penalised for deliberate out of bounds.
This of course implies that the player has an opponent close to him.
At field bounces close to the boundary line, be proactive; warn players that it is deliberate if they
knock the ball out on the full. If you’re not sure whose hands the ball has come off, don’t guess.
Consult with a boundary umpire if necessary.
If you believe the player’s prime objective is to put the ball out of bounds, he should be penalised.
If his prime objective is to stop his opponent from getting the ball, then he should not be
penalised.
DELIBERATE RUSHED BEHINDS
A Free Kick shall be awarded against a player from the defending team who intentionally kicks,
handballs or forces the football over the attacking team’s Goal Line or Behind Line or onto one of the
attacking team’s Goal Posts.
In assessing whether a Free Kick should be awarded under this Law, the field Umpire shall give the
BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT TO THE DEFENDER.
A Free Kick awarded under this Law shall be taken at the point where the football crossed the Goal
Line or Behind Line or from the relevant Goal Post.
When an Umpire is determining whether to award a free kick for a deliberate rushed behind
the considerations are:
• What is the player’s intention?
• Is the player contesting the ball?
• What is the degree of pressure the player is under?
• Was there a team mate in the vicinity of where the ball crossed the scoring line?
Players who are contesting the ball in a marking contest or in general play may punch or knock the
ball away from their opponents to prevent them from gaining possession of the football or from
scoring. This will not be deemed to be deliberately rushed.
Players from the defending team who are contesting a ruck contest who knock the ball through ON
THE FULL will be penalised.
When a free kick is paid, NO ALL CLEAR is given for a behind.
If the ball crosses the line between the goal posts, the free kick is taken directly in front of goal on
the goal line.
If the ball hits one of the goal posts, the free kick is taken directly in front of goal on the goal line.
If the ball goes between the goal and behind posts, the free kick is taken from where the ball crossed
the line and subsequently the player is put on the appropriate angle.
Where a player is in possession of the football and is tackled near the scoring line, he must dispose of
or attempt to dispose of the ball in complying with the laws of the game. A player will receive the
benefit of the doubt in this situation.
When a player bringing the football into play after a behind, kicks, handballs or forces the ball over
the scoring line he shall be penalised. Even though he did not bring the ball back into play in
accordance with the laws related to kick ins, the Deliberate Rushed Behind infringement takes
precedence.
OUT OF ZONE FREE KICKS
1. In general play, if you see an infringement that you believe the controlling umpire has missed, your first
consideration is NOT: Do I pay this free kick?
Your first consideration is: What position is the umpire in? If he or she is on the same plane as you and has no
players obstructing their view, as a general rule, you should refrain from paying free kicks. If, however, you
believe the controlling umpire is not in the best position to see the infringement, then your next consideration
is:
Am I 100% sure of what I’ve seen? Therefore, the whistle will be later than normal because you as the noncontrolling umpire are weighing up the factors above.
As a non-controlling umpire, you CANNOT pay free kicks for HOLDING THE BALL or other areas that are open to
interpretation such as DELIBERATE OUT OF BOUNDS (unless the ball has been knocked over on the full at a ruck
contest and is not seen by the umpire) or DELIBERATE RUSHED BEHINDS (unless the ball is knocked over the
scoring area on the full and is not seen by the umpire).
2. Free kicks at stoppages.
This is an area where you have to be careful. The Laws of football do not specifically cover this area but there
are infringements such as “pushing, bumping or blocking an opposition player when the football is further than
5 metres away... or is out of play”.
Therefore, early in the match you should be identifying who the key onballers are and their run with opponents
and keeping a close eye on them. Being proactive with your communication (“no blocks or holds”, “let him
have a clear run” etc) should be your first priority. Of course this equally applies to the umpire in control and
those who are not officiating at the time.
MATCH MANAGEMENT
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You must always respect the players and officials and use positive language. If a player or
official acts inappropriately, you should talk to them immediately. You should willingly
explain decisions but avoid getting in debates or arguments.
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You should be ASSERTIVE, demonstrating a firm, appropriate manner. You need to remain
calm and strong when the game intensity and pressure rises. If you do lose composure, take
a deep breath, slow your actions down and refocus. Lower your voice, speak slower and
make your actions more deliberate.
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For SET PLAYS, you must set the player on the correct line, ensure that the opposition player
is on the mark and that the protected area is clear of players. Once this is done you should
be no more than 10 to 15 metres away to achieve effective verbal control. Give clear, concise
instructions, speaking on the way in to the mark. Vary what you say, especially at boundary
throw ins.
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OBSERVATION is very important. Keep the players involved in the last act of play under
observation after disposal or a scrimmage, after the ball crosses the boundary line and after
a score. When coming in to line players up for goal, keep your eyes on THE PLAYER WITH THE
BALL. Watch for officials inside the 45 metre arc at kick ins.
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Your indications must clearly, concisely and accurately signal free kicks and other on-field
events. Don’t over emphasise these, however, as you need to be alert for advantage plays.
Your whistle should be powerful and crisp.
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Blow TIME ON only when there is an undue delay. Do not blow time on when lining players
up for goal unless the player with the ball puts it on the ground.
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At kick ins, give players about 5 to 6 seconds to kick the ball in. After this time has elapsed,
run forward a few steps, blow your whistle and say, “kick it now please”. If the player fails to
do so, call play on. The player still has to bring the ball into play as per normal.
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Around the ground, give players 6 to 7 seconds before following the same procedure, inviting
players to “move it on please.”
SET KICK CONTROL
Kick Ins
Whistle player up after 6 to 7 seconds
Call for a ball up when the kicker steps on one of the lines or out of the square
Call for a ball up when the ball is not kicked clear of hand and foot
Clear players out of the goal square quickly
Advance mark to CHB if a player exiting the goal square interferes with the kick in
Advance mark to CHB if the play is delayed
Ensure that no player stands within 5 metres of the goal square
Mark the spot at the first kick in at that end of the ground
Ask officials inside the arc to leave as soon as the goal umpire signals
Stay alert for officials entering the arc as soon as the goal umpire signals
Pay a free kick, taken at CHB/CHF if an official is inside the arc (taken by the player closest to CHB/CHF)
Call PLAY ON when the player kicks to himself
Call PLAY ON if a player kicks to himself and fumbles
Bring the play back if the ball is kicked in before the goal umpire’s signal
Set shots at goal
Position yourself behind the man on the mark when setting it
Keep nearly all your focus on the player with the ball running into the mark
Position the kicker on his correct line
Ensure that players are not in the protected area, including team mates
Have forward vision towards the goals after setting the mark
Tap through other umpire if kick is more than about 35 metres out
Call PLAY ON as soon as the player goes off his line
Blow TIME ON only if there is an undue delay
Line player up directly in front of goal if a mark or free kick is taken in the square
Stay no more than 10 metres from the mark
Tell the kicker how far back the man on the mark is standing
Out of bounds on the full
Ensure that the free kick recipient starts outside the boundary line
Position the man on the mark on the line or in line with this mark
Call PLAY ON as soon as the player steps inside the boundary line
Do NOT call PLAY ON if a player taking a set shot at goal from outside the boundary line walks in a direct line
towards the goals
Call PLAY ON if a player changes direction while outside the boundary line
Bring the man on the mark back 5 metres for a mark or free kick within 2 metres of the behind post
Trigger in to set up the mark as soon as the ball goes on the full
Whistle player up if he hasn’t kicked after 6 to 7 seconds
Call for a throw in if the kick doesn’t enter the field of play
General Play
Clear players out of the protected area, including team mates
Call PLAY ON as soon as the player goes off his line
Whistle player up if he hasn’t kicked after 6 to 7 seconds
Use the other umpire’s whistle as a trigger (#2 coming up to the mark)
Stay at the mark until you are aware that the other umpire has set kick control
Blow TIME ON only if there is an undue delay
Tap through other umpire if it is a volatile situation or if there is a delay
Have forward vision after leaving the mark
Keep nearly all your focus on the player with the ball running into the mark
Blow TIME ON if paying a 25 metre penalty
Advance the mark towards the goals if paying a 25 metre penalty
Stay square to the mark if the kick will likely result in a change of control
Mark or free kick to a defender close to the scoring line
Go in and set up the mark properly
Position the man on the mark 5 metres from the goal or behind line
Tell the kicker he must come back through the same opening if he goes behind the scoring line
Call PLAY ON if the kicker changes direction (give ALL CLEAR if the kicker is still behind the goal or behind line)
Give the player another kick if he kicks the ball into one of the posts
SIGNALLING
SEND OFFS IN VAFA FOOTBALL
Yellow Card
This is for send offs for an audible obscenity without a report being made.
The player may be replaced immediately.
The offending player is off for 12 minutes of playing time.
(In Under 18 and Under 19 matches, players behaving in a generally unruly manner may be
sent off using a Yellow Card without report)
Red Card
This is for most reportable incidents.
The player may not be replaced.
The player may return or be replaced after 12 minutes of playing time.
Black Card
This is for SERIOUS INCIDENTS including but not limited to:
KICKING, ATTEMPTING TO KICK, EYE GOUGING, MAKING CONTACT WITH OR STRIKING AN
UMPIRE, A SERIOUS ACT OF MISCONDUCT.
The player may not return to the field.
The player may be replaced after 12 minutes of playing time.
If boundary or goal umpires make reports, you need to accompany them to the reported
player where they will notify the player of the report. You can then show the appropriate
card.
REPORTABLE OFFENCES (by Mark Gibson)
There is often a heightened level of excitement and adrenalin which we must deal with (both in the players and
ourselves).
A structured and methodical thought process and approach will help eradicate potential errors. For that reason
I recommend the following process be in the fore of your mind and adopted.
a) RULE 19.2.2 READ IT.
Know what reportable offences are set out in rule 19.2.2 and what they actually entail; in other words before
you step out onto the field have an understanding of every reportable offence listed in Rule 19.2.2. Think about
what the differences are between various reportable offences. E.g “engaging in rough play”; “charging”;
“misconduct”. KNOW WHAT ACTIONS ARE REPORTABLE AND WHAT THE CORRECT REPORT IS.
b) WHEN TO REPORT & WHEN NOT TO REPORT
A reportable offence is something that cannot be addressed by a mere free kick. It requires denunciation. That
is, it is something that you must conclude warrants punitive action in the form of a suspension (or reprimand).
It is therefore something serious and not trivial. We should not be reporting for trivial breaches or infractions
of the laws. A reportable offence will stand out to you. Unless it stands out, don’t report . If there is some
doubt in your mind at the time of the incident, don’t report because it means you are unsure. Don’t be
influenced by the crowd or the players. You should have formed the decision to report prior to any reaction by
others.
PRACTICAL STEPS TO FOLLOW
1. Blow the whistle and call “time on”, as there will be an inordinate delay while you go through your routine.
2. Maintain eye contact with the offending player; do not lose sight of him. REMAIN TRANSFIXED ON THE
OFFENDING PLAYER. Make a mental and/or physical note of his number and team as soon as possible.
3. Maintain eye contact with the victim; try not to lose sight of him. Make a mental and/or physical note of his
number and team as soon as possible.
4. Slow everything down. Drop back to first gear. It is a bad look if you get excited. Cool, calm and collected is
what is best when reporting. Firm but calm instils confidence in others that you have the situation under
control.
5. Presence. Get in there to prevent retaliation.
6. Observe the effect the reportable offence has had on the victim. On the rare occasion it may be that what at
first blush appeared reportable, was clearly of less severity or force than you thought. By taking things slowly,
you will have time to assess all relevant factors. If you then decide to report you will need to advise the
Tribunal of the consequence/effect of the conduct of the reported player
7. Don’t rush the reporting process. Think about what the actual report is for. There are myriad of reportable
offences that have a similar theme; e.g rough play; charging; striking; misconduct; as you are running in to
report, start thinking about what the actual report is for. Then clearly verbalize it to the player noting any
response or lack of response. Always ask the player after you have advised him of the report, whether he
understands the report. Make sure he acknowledges you. e.g “I am reporting you for eye gouging, do you
understand”? IT IS CRUCIAL THAT WE RECITE THE CORRECT REPORT AND ARTICULATE IT TO THE PLAYER
CLEARLY. DON’T FUDGE IT.
8. Don’t recite “War & Peace”. There is no need to tell him anything other than what the report is for. Don’t get
into a dialogue with the player. Don’t go into detail as to which arm or fist or whether it was intentional or
reckless. etc etc. Leave all those details for the Tribunal.
9. Request the reported play leave the field. (via the interchange gates of course)
10. Display the appropriate card (red or black) for at least 5 seconds so that everyone can see it, including the
time keepers !! Don’t wave the card in the player’s face. At all times keep your distance from the reported
player. We don’t want to be seen as antagonising the player. Look at his number without touching him.
11. Ensure the reported player leaves the playing field. Don’t start play until he has. He obviously cannot be
replaced.
12. Red card = 12 minutes of playing time off the field for the reported player.
13. Black card = reported player off for the rest of the match but can be replaced after 12 minutes of playing
time. 14. A second red card reportable offence = player off for remainder of match.
THE ROLE OF NUMBER 2 UMPIRE
a) Let the umpire do his/her job. Don’t interfere. At times the number 2 umpire can be a distraction or
hindrance. At other times no. 2 can be of assistance.
b) Bear in mind that the Umpire will be transfixed on the reported player and the victim. It is the job of number
2 to either stand back at a distance if everything appears to be under control (and be inconspicuous), or,
alternatively to control any spot fire(s) that may have developed as a result of the reportable incident. This is
where number 2 can be of real assistance to the umpire.
c) The plan of attack in any reportable incident should be: The Umpire deals with the PRIMARY INCIDENT and
the TWO PLAYERS involved in it, while the number 2 umpire deals with any secondary / peripheral conduct that
may arise thereafter.
BOUNDARY / GOAL UMPIRES’ REPORTS
If a boundary or goal umpire reports a player he/she shall, at the next break in play,(or reasonable opportunity)
advise one of the field umpires. When this occurs, check that the boundary or goal umpire is clear with what
they saw. Advise them that you will accompany them to the offender and the player offended against but it is
them who must advise the player of the report. You will then display the appropriate card.
PAPERWORK
1. Take time when completing the necessary administrative functions to ensure accuracy and economy in the
information you provide.
THE TRIBUNAL
TIPS: HAVE A PREPARED AND STRUCTURED APPROACH
a) Rehearse in your mind beforehand exactly what you are going to say. Preparation is the key.
b) Your evidence is in effect telling a story to someone who wasn’t there. Try and be as descriptive, thorough
and comprehensive as you can. Don’t waffle. Take it slowly. Don’t rush. On the crucial part of your evidence,
pretend you are describing the frames of a film one by one.
c) Your evidence should include a LEAD UP (to set the scene). // THE INCIDENT ITSELF // THE AFTERMATH (if
any matters of relevance e.g “I only hit him because he provoked me”.
d) Whilst the consequence or effect of the conduct is important, it is the actual conduct or act itself which is
the offence. Never lose sight of that. So it follows that the actual act needs to be the focus of your evidence.
e) Don’t waffle. Be direct, concise, clear, and certain in the account you give. Of course that assumes you were
certain of things at the time of the incident. Report only if you are certain a reportable offence has been
committed. If you are not, don’t report. Submit an incident report in that event if you think one is warranted.
We do not want umpires making things up or “gilding the lily” at the tribunal. The integrity of the system will
be maintained if umpires strive to simply give a truthful, honest and clear account of what occurred. That way
the Tribunal will conclude that the account is a reliable one and will be in a position to act on it. Good Luck.