Penalty Enforcement

Penalty Administration

Crew should aim to be efficient, without rushing

Avoid conferences for obvious enforcements

All 7 officials are responsible for proper enforcement!

Calling OfficialPause, read, react!

Give preliminary signal unless discussion neededExamples of when to discuss:• Multiple flags• Discussion required with other officials• Change of possession• Unsportsmanlike conduct or dead ball fouls

Allow other officials to help in case they’ve seen it differently

Know foul, player, enforcement

Be able to describe what you saw

Confirm spot of the foul, if needed

Report foul to R as if announcing on mic.

RefereeAnnounce immediately if choice is obvious

If not done, give prelim. signal if choice is needed

Avoid taking many steps before giving announcement

Be concise; limit words during announcement

Use microphone for the benefit of the crew

UmpirePrimary responsibility of enforcing penalties

Mark penalty as soon as decisions are known

Aim to minimize referee involvement

Work with H and L to ensure accuracy

Remainder of Crew

Head Linesman• Marks off penalty with umpire• Confirms accuracy of enforcement

Line Judge• Holds enforcement spot• Help referee give announcement (call numbers, etc.)• Confirms accuracy of enforcement

Other Officials• Confirm accuracy of enforcement• Avoid prolonged conferences and involving several officials• All of the crew is responsible!

Example: Offensive Hold During Run

R

L

B

F

#A36 runs for 30 yards……But F throws a flag for holding on #A17

L holds spot of the end of the run

B holds the spot of the flag

F gives preliminary signal

Team B’s decision obvious;R makes announcement

Example: Marking Off Penalty

R

L

U

H

L holds enforcement spot

H & U mark off penalty together

L verifies correct spot

We’re ready for the next play