Becoming a better referee very rapidly.
Signal Mechanics and Conscious Coordination
Control What We Can Control With camps just around the corner, the season will be upon us before we know it. Let's get ready, becoming the best communicators that we can possibly be. Nothing will improve our officiating as dramatically and noticeably as improvement in our signal mechanics. HOW TO IMPROVE Even if we think we have good or great signals, self assessment and that from other referees will be helpful to identify areas of focus for improvement. These exercises will yield marked improvement, noticeable by everyone. Use the mirror to see how you look, reciting each and every signal mechanic in our arsenal. 3,4 minutes per day, 3,4 days per week will yield tremendous results. Our goal is sharp, strong, well timed, crisp, clear, definite signals so players, coaches, the benches, fans and especially your crew know exactly what was called and what is the result. Are we ambidextrous for all of our signal mechanics? With practice, our position on the court will instinctually connect with our natural reflex muscle memory as to which arm to use when. The goal is not to turn your back to the court or cross your body when signaling. Attempt this skill, practice it and soon it will be within your mastery. Have a buddy video your league games, travel tourneys, camps and clinics. Even a phone camera will do. Video is a super way to view our signal mechanic improvement. Even our walk or running gait can be tracked for betterment. We all might be surprised as to the areas we might improve upon. Are we using proper signals, in proper sequence, with no personalized and unauthorized signal mechanics? The NFHS Basketball Signal Chart is attached for your reference. Are we stopping the clock with a vertical, open palm for ALL violations and held ball situations? Examples. Every violation has 4 parts to its signal sequence: 1. stop the clock 2. demonstrate the infraction 3. give the direction for the team then receiving the ball/with the team color 4. indicate the spot out of bounds where the throw in will take place. Are we posting with a vertical arm fist for ALL foul calls? 1. stop the clock, "post" the foul 2. Identify the foul type, if needed for clarification 3. Let everyone know if the foul is in the act of shooting (especially with Continuous Motion), or indicate the spot out of bounds for the throw in 4. Move to the Foul Reporting Area, athletically with pace 5. Stop 6. Report, Clear, Distinct, Strong, Next Action NFHS signal mechanic helpful quick video https://youtu.be/wED7Dela-_k HOW TO FURTHER IMPROVE Do Not use unauthorized, non NFHS signals. i.e. refrain from the tipped ball signal for FGA's, as this signal is reserved for out of bounds or Division Line plays. If we signal a tipped ball on a blocked shot, your partner might have a foul call? Then we have a real problem. Our crew credibility and communication will be severely compromised. The correct signal for a blocked shot is NO SIGNAL. Emulate referees for NCAA or NBA/WNBA games for their signal strength, clarity, crispness and unequivocal communication. Also refrain from using the two vertical extended arms for a walled up POV play. This was never a NFHS signal; it was introduced for NCAA use but had a very brief tenure. It was quickly rescinded for mis-application and another referee whistling a foul when this signal was used. Again, if there is a walled up POV play, the correct signal is NO SIGNAL. ELIMINATE NEGATIVE NON-VERBAL SIGNALS Everyone has learned something about the importance of non verbal aspects in communication. Here is some information which may prove useful, as a referee and in life's endeavors. https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-nonverbal-communication-2795397 As referees, perhaps some of these behaviors might be eliminated to improve and optimize our court presence? Almost every college referee coordinator counsels or even manadates being aware of these non verbal turn-offs Did you know? Hands behind back=when a person keeps their hands behind their back, they are effectively cutting off a form of communication. In many cultures, this is a sign that they are holding back. It can be viewed as stiff or arrogant. Hands and arms at the side will give off a more relaxed, comfortable stance. Reviewing TV game refs, hands clasped behind the back is non-existent. Hands on hips=there are issues, things are not good, I'm poised for a combative response. Hands in pockets=defensive gesture is placing your hands in your pockets. It indicates powerlessness and shyness. It gives off an aura of less concern than is called for. Arms folded in front=closed off, unreceptive, tense, insecure, blocking out what is being offered Chewing gum=might be viewed as disrespectful, sloppy, not following the norm Facial expressions=a grimace or scowl or looks of displeasure or disdain travel far, wide and deep. All too often a neutral or positive expression will create a friendlier, collegial atmosphere for your crew and the game. Everyday we get a little bit better or a little bit worse. The choice is ours. Pete Kafka BCAA Basketball Rules Interpreter PLKREF@GMAIL.COM 954-629-3771 CELL