Volleyball Officiating:

1. Volleyball Officiating: The 3 Cs Borrowed with permission from: Jim Beyer Shared by: Cedric Allrunner Cathy Chavez July 27-28, 2017

2. INTRODUCTION Who am I? Why am I here? Who are you? Why are you here?

3. Make the Commitment to Become the Best Volleyball Official You Can Be Just registering to officiate every year is not enough. Coaches and players are entitled to quality officiating which comes, in part, from: • studying the rules and applying them properly; • learning new techniques; • mastering points of emphasis; • receiving feedback; • setting goals; • engaging in a self-critique process to turn weaknesses into strengths; • establishing a mentor-mentee relationship.

4. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball 1.COMMUNICATION 2. CONSISTENCY 3. CONTROL

6. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball COMMUNICATION Approach: • Success of any relationship depends upon effective communication. • It is usually better to be proactive rather than reactive. • Create a professional climate through: • Awareness of self. How am I doing? How am I being received and perceived? • Respect for self and others. • Being a good listener open to give-and-take exchanges.

7. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball With whom do you communicate? • Your Partner • Assistant Officials/Support Staff • Players • Coaches • Host Management • Fans • Assigner • Self

8. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Your Partner Your Partner is Your Fellow Official • You are match facilitators • Officials are judged in terms of how well they did as a team. • Begin with a pre-match contact. • Enter the venue together. Enter the court together. • Meet the coaches together. • Leave the court and venue together. • If at all possible have a post-match conference. • Support your partner throughout the match. • A thumbs up or hand clap after a long rally or “good call” is important (“good job” during time-out or between games).

10. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Your Partner For effective communication/teamwork, you can: • Share the workload (net check, area inspection, ball pressure check, and instruction of assistant officials/support staff). • Conduct a pre-match discussion led by the R1 during which: • R2 gets an answer to “what do you expect of me?” • Informal signalsare agreed upon • Emphasize eye contact “CENTERING” (before, during and after each play). • Agree upon an exit plan to “toot and scoot” after last match • Meet for a post-match discussion with a candid assessment of how you worked as a team, what worked well, what could have been better?

11. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Assistant Officials/Support Staff Creating a rapport is essential! Volleyball is unique, in that, we may have unpaid, uncertified, & hopefully impartial volunteers making critical decisions. Assistant Officials • Line Judges • Scorer • Libero Tracker • Timer/Scoreboard Operator Support Staff • Announcer • Ball “Shaggers” (when you have them!)

12. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Assistant Officials Line Judges: • The R1 typically instructs the line judges, evaluates ability/experience, places them in their respective positions (less experienced to the right of R1), and evaluates their performance. Use the acronym “SALT” (Service, Antenna, Line, Touch) to teach/review signals (with or without flags). • Accepting Line Judge calls validates the Line Judges and benefits the match. Ask for constant eye contact with the R1. • Address overruling and not able to call as possibilities. • Use time-outs for further instruction or reminders.

13. Use your line judges! Keep them in the game by having eye contact with them, by smiling at them, and by checking with them regularly – even if you already know the call. Be kind to your line judges and always protect your line judges.

14. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Assistant Officials Scorer/Scorekeeper: • The R2 typically works with the official scorer, evaluates experience, checks line-up entry, checks the score sheet during time-outs and prepares the scorer to be ready to provide information before, during or after the play, such as the numbers of the next 3 servers (front row). • The R2 reminds the scorer to identify a wrong server prior to the serve but report it to R2 after service contact. • Ensuring the proper score is kept means the R2 gives the scorer enough time to record substitutions, including time to verify that the scoreboard matches the score sheet.

15. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Assistant Officials Libero Tracker: • The R2 works with the Libero Tracker and ensures the Libero Tracker is partnering with the scorer. • The Libero Tracker is instructed to ensure proper libero replacements occur, that the same 2 numbers are on either side of the “L,” that all substitutions are recorded as well as libero replacements, that libero exchange rules are followed and that libero serving is properly recorded. • Illegal libero replacements should be reported immediately when identified by the libero tracker. • If working with a novice scorer or libero tracker, use the rules book for a guide.

17. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Assistant Officials Timer/Scoreboard Operator: • The R2 works with the timer to ensure the horn or buzzer sounds under certain circumstances and that the score is posted accurately. This occurs in concert with the scorer (scorer sits between the timer and libero tracker). • The R2 and R1 observes and backs up the timing of match segments throughout the match and addresses any problems. • The R2 communicates expectations for warm-ups, time-outs and between-game intervals.

18. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Support Staff Announcer: • The R1 works with the announcer to ensure a common understanding of: • How player introductions and the National Anthem will occur (timing and duration). • Any special events such as senior or parent nights. • Whether the announcer will indicate who is serving and make a neutral commentary, if any commentary is made at all.

19. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Support Staff Ball Shaggers: • The R2 typically instructs the ball shaggers regarding: • Wiping the ball to keep it dry. • When the ball goes to the server and where the extra balls should go (3-ball rotation). • Properly rolling the ball. • Avoiding interfering with play and safety issues. Encourage the use of ball shaggers, if properly educated they can enhance the flow and tempo of the match.

20. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Players • Perception is reality. Don’t call players by their names which conveys favoritism. To talk with the captain, say “captain.” They’re really the only players to address officials. • If you do need to talk directly with a player, use the player’s number (“#5,…) or go through the captain or coach. • Treat players with respect and dignity. • Post match, limit any commentary to “nice match.” Never touch a player or coach other than via a handshake and only if the handshake is initiated by the player or coach.

21. Be patient with the players

22. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Coaches • Perception is reality. Approach with your partner for introductions (when both coaches are courtside, home coach first), trying to spend equal time with each, be cordial but brief, address new rules or rule questions. Never ever comment on the performance of an individual or team. • Address the coach by saying “coach” and not by using the coach’s name. • Go through the coach to address a problem with a player on the court or bench personnel. • Don’t initiate a post-match hand shake. • Don’t linger after match to make yourself accessible.

23. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Coaches/Captains Pre-Match Meeting with Head Coaches and Captains • The R1 introduces him/herself and partner, and asks captains and coaches to introduce themselves. • The R1 goes over the court and playing area, legal equipment and uniforms, match and warm-up format. R2 adds information including waiting for authorization for subs to enter. The R1 then asks if there are any questions. • Conclude with calling of the coin toss by the visiting team captain, ensuring the home captain repeats the call and both captains are shown the result of toss. Wish “good luck”, then identify immediately (coin in pocket) which team has the serve to the scorer. • The First Referee instructs the Timer to begin the Timed Warm-up. Both Referees keep time on their watches to provide a back-up.

24. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Coaches Responding to Coach During Match • Control what we say – rule knowledge is important. • Use simple language – be grammatically correct • Don’t be condescending or dismissive • Instead of saying, “It was in,” say “I saw it in.” • Wait to hear the coach’s concern. “Coach, what did you see?” • Listen • Repeat back • Remain calm • Don’t interrupt • Don’t have an answer before you know the problem.

25. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Coaches Responding to Coach During Match • Body language & position in telling • Consider your facial expressions, habits, gestures, & posture

26. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Coaches Responding to Coach During Match • The R2’s role is to serve and protect the R1. When a coach has a problem or question, the R2 positions herself/himself between the coach and the R1, and does not allow the coach to yell across court at the R1. • The R2 is proactive in anticipating if a coach will have a concern about a close call or non-call. • The R2 may go to the coach to diffuse an outburst. Be a good listener. Succinctly respond and end with “let’s play,” and give the court back to the R1. • After “let’s play” the coach risks a card with further interruptions. • Judgment calls are not to be questioned.

27. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Host Management (usually the Athletic Director) • Affirm details and that you will be officiating at least 7 days prior to the match with a phone call or email to the Athletic Department. • Greet the Athletic Director; identify room to change clothes and store officiating gear. • If refreshments are provided be sure to express your appreciation. Do not push for receiving refreshments. • Identify where host management will be located, if needed, before, during and after the match. “Where will you be…?” • Involve host management when there are facility problems, safety concerns, unruly fans, or other such issues.

28. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Fans • Generally, do not respond to fans during a match (perception that the official has “rabbit ears”). • If there is an unruly fan(s), suspend play until host management intervenes and either removes the fan(s) or ensures there will be no further problems. • If the opportunity presents itself, you might seek to explain a rule to a fan. But, avoid confrontation at all cost, since this is a no-win situation. • Monitor flash photography during play (distraction or safety issue?). • Avoid using a public restroom, going to the concession stand and crowds.

29. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Your Assigner • Work with your assigner through prompt acceptance or rejection of assignments. Never push or politic for particular matches, but make your availability known. • Honor your commitments, and fulfill your contractual obligations. Never seek a casual release from a contract. Don’t intentionally double book. • If expected to, obtain an acceptable replacement when you have to turn back an assignment for a valid reason. • If there were any problems at a match, notify your assigner immediately. • Don’t forget to say, “thanks.”

30. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication with Yourself • Use “self encouragement” through positive thoughts. If you’re thinking about the call that you might have missed, you’re probably going to miss the next one. • Not What If? But What Now? • Don’t dwell on your mistakes; learn from them. • Try to create a comfort level, relax and relieve stress through such techniques as deep breathing and imaging. • Evaluate yourself fairly. • Be aware of how you relate to others and how you are “received” and “perceived.” • Try to maintain a constant wide to narrow focus while you’re on the stand as First Referee or working on the floor as Second Referee. • Talk to yourself. Before Beckon, “Where are my setters?”

31. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Appearance • Confidence • Delays

32. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Appearance: • Body language says a lot along with the official’s facial expressions. Must give perception of being laid back but not uninterested. • Good posture on the stand and on the floor is very important. Don’t be too casual. Don’t ever lean on the post, scorer’s table or stand. • Hands on the hips can look a bit confrontational. Arms folded across chest can look condescending. Don’t be too rigid. Look and feel relaxed.

33. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Appearance: • Be careful and be aware of how you conduct yourself with the people around you. Be friendly but do not attempt to be everybody’s friend. • Grooming is important. Not only neat appearance but pressed shirts and pants, shoes in good condition and polished. Shorts may look too casual. Shirt tucked in. • Look physically fit and up to the task of officiating.

34. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Appearance: • Wear the correct uniform! • And make sure your clothes fit! • White shirt should be white. • Bring an extra shirt and pants in case of an accident. • Extra belt, extra pair of socks (perhaps for partner!). • Have shoe polish, Febreze and stain stick with you. • Avoid drawing attention to yourself.

35. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Confidence: • Shown through the use of signals: • Clear and distinct (practice in front of a mirror). • Marked by signal separation. • Set the tempo. • Unrushed to avoid creating confusion (what was the call?), • Don’t get sloppy and use the CORRECT signals. eg. Touch vs. Out

36. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Confidence: • Shown through use of your whistle; Discriminating and distinct whistles include, but are not limited to: • Beckon for serve. • Whistle to end a rally. • Whistle for a substitution. • Whistle for a time-out. • Whistle to call attention to a potential safety hazard. • Whistle to hold up play.

37. A strong whistle is important Don’t blow your whistle too soon – try to avoid unnecessary replays

38. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Confidence: • Create a climate of calmness. • Make sure court is a safe place, ready for play. • Follow correct procedures for substitutions/time-outs. • Maintain proper court coverage. • R1 follows ball. • R2 transitions to the blocker’s side, monitoring player movement.

39. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCONTROL • Delays: • “Defuse and defend” is part of the R2’s role to “serve and protect” the R1. Listen carefully to a coach’s question. • Give a short concise answer but don’t quote the rule to the coach. Rather, interpret the practical application of the rule and end with “let’s play, coach” and then turn the match back to the R1 to facilitate game flow. • The R2 should not permit judgment calls to be continually challenged without warning and finally asking for a card.

40. Don’t just give a card – explain briefly to the captain the reason for the card, and then get back to the match

41. The 3 Cs of Officiating VolleyballCommunication Revisited • Responsibility: • The R1 is responsible to take in all pertinent, available information before making a final decision. • Overall, the R1 and R2 are in a constant scan mode, looking for potential safety issues, coach requests, bench activity, partner and line judges in position, need for additional time on the part of the score table, etc.

42. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: • These signals follow the pre-match agreements on what the R2 will signal the R1: • Show only play-ending information such as 4-hits (touch by the block on third hit that goes into the tape, don’t show a touch signal), 2-hits, illegal hit, illegal attack, illegal back-row block, over-the-net contact, ball touched out, possible illegal alignment on the serving team, possible screening.

43. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: 4-hits If the R2 believes… • a ball has already been contacted three times and the next contact will result in the fourth hit, show four fingers in the chest area using the hand to the side of the team that would be committing the fault upon next contact. • a third hit has been touched by the block and stays on the side of the attacking team, no hand signal will be made to show touch but a head nod can affirm “I saw a touch, play on.”

44. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: 2-hits; illegal hit If the R2 believes… • there is a double hit or multiple contacts outside the view of the First Referee OR if, from the R2’s angle, there is a double hit on a ball the R1 has called previously, the R2 will show the 2-hit signal in the chest area. • there is an illegal hit outside the view of the R1, the R2 will show the illegal hit signal in the chest area using the hand on the side of the team that committed the fault.

45. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: illegal back row block If the R2 believes… • there is a back-row blocker near the net, reaching higher than the net and contacting the ball or a back-row player participating in a completed collective block, the R2 should step out and show the illegal block signal in the chest area. The R2 should whistle the fault if the R1 does not see the signal and misses the back-row block.

46. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: illegal back row attack If the R2 believes… • a back-row player with last contact in the attack zone has contacted a ball near the top of the net, the R2 should step out and show the possibility of an illegal back-row attack in the chest area on the side of the attacking team. • the ball clearly is above net height and the ball then crosses the net or is legally contacted by the opponent, the R2 may show a strong attack signal and should whistle the fault if the R1 doesn’t see the signal and just “misses it.”

47. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: over the net If the R2 believes… • a player reaches over the net and contacts the ball which has not been attacked while the ball is totally on the opponent’s side of the net, the R2 should step out and show the over-the-net signal in the chest area. • This includes an attack on the other side of the net, a block contact which takes a play away from the opponents on a ball that was not going over the net and/or is not an attack. However, any ball that has already been contacted three times may be blocked on the opponent’s side.

48. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: ball down If the R2 believes… • a ball is down/in, step out to signal the R1 to assist with making the call. If the R1 waves off the R2 (indicating the First Referee saw the ball “up”), the R2 should pull the call back and play continues. • However, if the R1 fails to see the call despite the step out and “sell” job, the R2 – being 105% certain that the ball touched the court, should whistle the fault.

49. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signals: illegal alignment, screening If the R2 believes… • there is a possible illegal alignment on the serving team, show the illegal alignment signal in the chest area to alert the R1. • there is a possible screen, especially if the receiving team is struggling to see the serve, show the screen signal in the chest area to alert the R1

50. The 3 Cs of Officiating Volleyball Communication Revisited • Informal Signal: game point • After confirming the serving team has game point, the R2 will show this with an index finger on the shoulder of the team that has game point. The scorer should also give this signal. The R1 will acknowledge the signal with a nod, but will not signal back in return. • The informal signal of game point is repeated only as necessary and not while the other team is continuing to serve and the receiving team has repeated game points. However, if the score becomes tied, game point will be shown each time either team has a game point through the end of the game.