Referee Assault and Abuse - Be Prepared!

Although the incidences of Referee Assault and Abuse are minimal when looked at from the perspective of the number of matches officiated each year, every referee must be prepared to deal with it appropriately if it happens.  Please read the documents listed below under Resource Material for more information.

Referee Assault or Abuse:

1. Can involve verbal threats or physical contact;
2. Can be directed at you or can involve damage to your possessions;
3. Can happen before, during or after the match.
4. Is a crime!

Important Steps to Remember

1. Remain Calm.
2. Retreat...get yourself to safety.
3. If you have been threatened or assaulted, call the police.
4. If possible - get the names and phone numbers of witnesses.
5. Write a description of what happened as soon as you are in a safe location.
6. Report it - It must be included in the match report.
7. Get Help - Contact any of the Chapter Officers or Instructors for assistance with writing the match report and for answers to any questions you may have.
8. Don't quit - Don't let the actions of one individual turn you away from being a referee.

Resource Material for Referees:

• USSF Policy 531-9 defines Misconduct Toward Game Officials and outlines procedures for reporting, hearings and sanctions.  The policy is contained on pages 7 through 9 of the Referee Administrative Handbook available for download  Click here to download "Referee Administrative Handbook, 2009-10 Edition"
• The EPSARC Referee Handbook outlines local procedures for dealing with Referee Abuse and Assault.  Click Here to read that section of the handbook.
• The Pennsylvania Criminal Code contains a separate reference for "Assault on Sports Official" in 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 2712 and defines it as a Misdemeanor of the First Degree.  Click Here to read an extract from the Criminal Code. 

Last Updated 08/23/2010