Matthew, Rei, Darren

Lots of KSRA officials were in action this weekend. I had the pleasure of working with several and watched many more. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I see our officials (of all ages) work to improve their skills and the results are showing!

This week's OiA (trademark) is about *technique*.

Matthew is a new official, and attended pre-season training. During the pre-season sessions we worked on arm signal technique. In Clip 1, Matthew has been following play and correctly makes an out-of-bounds signal. He brings up his whistle but decides it's not necessary. He repeats the signal (I think the younger players didn't know whose throw in it was so Matthew wanted to reinforce the ball direction). Two items to note here: 1) Matthew *makes* a direction signal. The easy way is to not make a direction signal - thecorrect way is to signal every time. 2) Arm straight, top of hand head high. Holds it for a second or two. 

To really have made a great signal would be to stop, stand straight and signal. But Matthew has the building blocks in place and he's working hard.  Well done Matthew!

Clip 1

Rei has been officiating for a couple of years. She has worked hard to constantly improve. In Clip 2, watch as Rei makes a quick run to keep up with play, then demonstrates a juicy (as the kids say) out-of-bounds signal.  Well done Rei!

Clip 2

And finally, did you know there are five male FIFA Assistant Referees in Canada, and one of them is a member of the KSRA? (no, not me, but thanks for asking). In Clip 3, Darren demonstrates world class technique. Watch the side to side movement. When he 'enters' the penalty area, the flag switches to his right hand. In Clip 4, notice the calm, unhurried signal (the ball is out of bounds, it's a goal kick, no big deal). Well done Darren!

Clip 3

Clip 4

Feedback, comments, questions?

ksrasecretary99@gmail.com