4. PRE-GAME CHECKLISTS

4.1 – Before the day checklist

In the days prior to the game each official should check:

  1. the location of the venue
  1. the kickoff time
  1. the time the crew is going to meet
  1. the location where the crew is going to meet
  1. who is going to travel together (particularly to minimise expenses)
  1. the competition regulations applying to the game, including its duration and whether extra periods may be played
  1. the weather forecast for game day
  1. the type of field surface (grass/turf)
  1. whether there is history between the two teams
  1. the results of each team's recent games
  1. what colour uniform each team will be wearing
  1. who the head coach of each team is
  1. whether any personnel from either team are serving suspensions
  1. contact details for other members of the crew
  1. their radios and other electronic equipment are fully charged
  1. the schedule for pre- and post-game activities

In addition, for an international game, and/or one where unusually long travel is involved, and/or where an overnight stay is required, each official should check:

  1. their travel arrangements
  1. their accommodation arrangements
  1. any pickup or dropoff arrangements to/from airports, hotels, the stadium
  1. how their personal nutrition and hydration needs will be met

4.2 – Game management checklist

At the earliest possible opportunity after arriving at the venue, the officials should check all appropriate items from the following list with the representative(s) of game management:

  1. adequacy of playing area, field markings, padding of posts, removal of hazards, etc.
  1. jersey colours
  1. confirm kickoff time
  1. the time the teams will enter the field
  1. whether a player identity check is to be performed and, if so, when and by whom
  1. stadium clocks and clock operators
  1. public address announcer
  1. team announcements and the time they will begin and end
  1. any VIP's or special arrangements for coin toss ceremony
  1. national anthems
  1. half-time activities, length of interval, etc.
  1. end of game activities
  1. radio microphone
  1. payment of game fees
  1. chain, chain crew and the time they should be available
  1. balls, ball persons and the time they should be available
  1. towels
  1. medical facilities
  1. changing room security
  1. if the officials can have a copy of the game video
  1. whether drinks will be provided for the officials at half-time and the end of game

4.3 – Team checklist

At least 60 minutes before kickoff, the Referee or other officials should check all appropriate items from the following list with the Head Coach and management of each team:

  1. player numbering/eligibility
  1. player equipment
  1. everyone in the team area has appropriate credentials
  1. roster form
  1. numbers of captains
  1. whether all quarterbacks are right-handed
  1. whether all kickers are right-footed
  1. number of the long snapper(s)
  1. unusual plays, formations or situations
  1. who will be his team's first responder(s) to injured players
  1. rule queries
  1. sideline control, including the name of the "get-back coach"
  1. procedure for calling for a timeout or coach's conference
  1. procedure for calling for a replay review

4.4 – Medical checklist

Before kickoff, the officials should check all appropriate items from the following list:

  1. location of medical personnel during the game
  1. signals to be used to summon medical help to the field
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Editor: Jim Briggs, Editor, IAFOA Manual of Football Officiating
jim.briggs@acm.org

Generated: 18/4/2020, 1131