referee handbook 2019 finished - ladies gaelic football · during these course participants will:...
TRANSCRIPT
Referee
Handbook
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Contents
Page No.
3 Referee Pathway
7 General Guidelines
10 Signals
13 Positioning
15 Communication
18 Report Writing & CODA
27 Conflict Management
29 Physical Fitness
34 Mental Preparation
36 Nutrition & Hydration
38 Teamwork
41 Umpire
46 Linesperson
48 Fourth Official
50 Score Assistant & Hawkeye
55 Self‐Reflection
59 Code of Ethics & Vetting
62 Assessments
64 Referee & Player Attire
66 Score keeping
68 Concussion
72 Carding & Sin Bin
74 Playing Rules
91 GAA Rule Differences
99 Quick Quiz
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Referee
Pathway
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Referee Pathway
Our Referee Education Programme currently consists of 5 courses:
Go‐Games – Basic Refereeing
During these course participants will:
Be introduced to the basic rules of Ladies Gaelic Football Discuss the roles and responsibilities of referees Develop the fundamental skills of refereeing to enable to referee in a fun, safe environment Must be 16 years of age Referee u6 to u12
Grab Your Whistle ‐ Club Youth Referee
During these course participants will:
Be introduced to the rules of Ladies Gaelic Football Discuss the roles and responsibilities of referees Develop the fundamental skills of refereeing through simulated tasks Receive information on dealing with dissent and communication with players Must be 17 years of age Referee u14 to U16 club games in the county.
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Grab Your Whistle ‐ Adult Club Referee
During this course participants will:
Be introduced to the rules of Ladies Gaelic Football Discuss the roles and responsibilities of referees Develop the fundamental skills of refereeing through simulated tasks Receive information on physical fitness and nutritional requirements for officiating Ladies Gaelic
Football games Must be 18 years of age Referee to u14 to adult club clubs in the county
Grab Your Whistle ‐ County Refresher Course
A refresher course for participants who have completed GYW Club Adult Course or referees who have refereed Gaelic football for a minimum of 5 years.
This is a refresher course on the rules of Ladies Gaelic Football. This course should be organised annually by every county to ensure all referees are fully aware of the rules of the game. Participants must be 18 years of age minimum.
Grab Your Whistle – Provincial Referee Course
This course is organised once a year for referees on our Provincial Panel. The content varies every course and it is aimed to ensure consistency in provincial refereeing and that Provincial Referees are continually developing their skills. Referees will receive a written and fitness assessment.
Grab Your Whistle – National Referee Course
This course is organised twice a year for referees on our National Panel. The content varies every course and it is aimed to ensure consistency in national refereeing and that National Referees are continually developing their skills.
How can a referee progress to the Provincial or National Referee Panel?
A referee must be nominated by their county board to take part in the Provincial Accelerate Programme and if successful on the programme they will join the provincial panel. The same applies for the National Panel except that provincial council must nominate
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General
Guidelines
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Guidelines for Referees
Firstly it is essential that referees know the rules thoroughly as outlined in the Official Guide which is available at http://ladiesgaelic.ie/resources/official‐guide/
First Tips....
Apply the rules uniformly and consistently
Attend a Refresher course each year
Make your decisions clearly, confidently and firmly
Treat players and officials with courtesy and respect as you would wish them to treat you
Good communication and respect toward players our fundamental traits for referees
Role of the Referee
Prior to the Game
Decide whether grounds or other conditions are suitable for playing
Ensure pitch is marked properly and goal nets are properly fitted
Be on the field at least ten minutes before the appointed starting time of the game
Sign and give a copy of the lists of teams to the opposing team before the commencement of the game
Check umpires and lines people are appointed and have been briefed
Record the time each team takes the field
Ensure players are properly attired
Ensure you are warmed‐up and focused come throw in
During the Game
Referee the game in accordance with the playing rules
Be alert, especially during a break in play, to possible signals from fellow officials looking for your attention
Deal with intrusions of unauthorised persons onto the field of play
Terminate a game because of darkness
Record the score, taking particular care that each score is attributed to the correct team
Manage time correctly
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After the Game
Complete a light cool‐down with your team
Do not give interviews to the media on any matter arising from the game
Complete your Referee’s report and return the completed form to the relevant Committee
Referee Checklist
Whistle
Notebook and pen/pencil
Yellow and red card
Two watches
Coin
Ensure you are wearing the LGFA referee kit
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Signals
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Referee Signals
It is essential that referees use clear signals to ensure that players, mentors and spectators are aware of
what the decision is for. The referee should blow the whistle first and then use signals. Below are some of
the most common signals used:
Penalty Yellow Card, Persistent Fouling Advantage
Pawing Shoulder Charge Pushing
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Pulling the Jersey Touching the Ball on the Ground Foot in Hands Down
Over carrying Two Hops Closed Fist Tackle
Throw Ball Holding Blood Sub
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Positioning
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Positioning
It is important that referee’s work on their positioning to ensure they can make the correct call. Being in the correct position also builds confidence for a referee. Below is some advice in relation to positioning:
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Communication
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To be involved as a referee means collaborating with anything up to 30 players, possibly 60 parents, club
committees, county boards and managers. There are pitfalls!
Communication is a 2‐way process. The purpose of communication is to get your message across to
others. This is a process that involves both the sender of the message and a receiver. This process leaves
room for error, with messages often misinterpreted by one or more of the parties involved. This causes
unnecessary confusion and counter productivity. A message is successful only when both the sender and
the receiver perceive it in the same way. The channel of communication is affected by non‐verbal cues,
including facial expressions, gestures, tone of voice, affirmations (i.e. head nods), proximity to receiver,
eye contact, etc.
Lasswell’s Formula of Communication
Sender Message How Receiver Effect
Who Says What To Whom In What
Channel
With What
Effect?
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The Whistle
The use of the whistle is extremely important it is not an instrument but you can make it speak!
Short or medium Beep To restart play. Think “go!”
Quick short beeps To prevent a restart, like when a substitution is taking place
or the side line kick is in the wrong direction. Think “but but
but…”
Medium To stop for a foul or an injury; to bring players on the field at
the start or at half time. Think “stop”
Long To start the game very ceremoniously. To stop for a serious
foul. Think “stowwwwwp”
Medium then long Half time. Think “half tiiiime”
Twice medium then long Game over. Think “that’s the gaaaame!”
It is important that you use the whistle effectively to gain the respect of all players but also to
communicate verbally so they understand the reasons behind your decisions.
Remember….
Whistle and Then Signal
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Report Writing
& CODA
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The ABC of Report Writing
While the practical elements of refereeing like fitness, rule examination and advisor reports are vitally
important to the development of the referee it is very fair to say that the job is not complete until the
referee’s report has been completed and submitted to the secretary of the committee in charge.
The key to writing a good report is to follow a process and keep it concise, factual, legible, accurate and
relevant.
a. The referee must forward team lists, and a detailed report of the match to the Committee or
Council in charge of the fixture, showing:
b. The final and half time scores
c. The time the teams took the field
d. The time that the match commenced
e. The Attire of players and note the number of the player(s) not wearing the correct attire
f. The Names of any players cautioned or ordered off and the reasons. Specific details and exact
nature of the offence committed and in cases of verbal abuse the exact words used must be
reported
g. The names of any players injured or any other information s/he deems relevant
h. The names of substitutes used during the course of the game
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Sample Referee Reporting
Date: Time:
Competition: Adult Juvenile
Venue:
Team A: Team B:
You are requested to:
1. Arrive at the venue at least ten minutes before the official throw in time
2. Be togged out properly wearing the official referee’s gear of the LGFA
3. Start the game on time and restrict the interval to a max of 15 minutes
4. Compete all sections on this form and return it to: with the team lists and substitute slips within 3
days.
Team A: (took to field at)
Team B: (took to field at)
Game commenced at:
Game finished at:
HT Score Team A G Pts Team B G Pts
FT Score Team A G Pts Team B G Pts
ET Score* Team A G Pts Team B G Pts
*if extra time is applicable please just enter the full time score after the 2nd period of ET
Attire of players: Were players togged out in correct numbered jerseys, was there uniformity in shorts
and socks, had you to request player(s) to wear a gum shield?
Comment here:
Injured player(s)
Player(s) Name Club Nature of Injury Played on Y / N
Details of Player(s) Cautioned
Player Club Offence
A cautionable offence / foul (yellow card) is a SIN BIN for all grades from U14 up to & including Senior
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Please comment on pitch markings and provision of nets, flags:
Comment here:
Referees Signature: Date:
Details of Player(s) ordered OFF the field
Player Club Offence
Immediate ordering off foul / offence (Red Card) 2nd cautionable four / offence (2nd yellow card followed by a red) Please be specific and concise.
Substitutes
Player(s) name Club
1 For
2 For
3 For
4 For
5 For
Player(s) name Club
1 For
2 For
3 For
4 For
5 For
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LGFA Official Referee Report Card
A referee should obtain the official report card from the relevant committee or council in charge.
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Referee Score Sheets
Referee Wallets are available from the LGFA office and are made to fit in the pocket of the official referee
gear.
Below shows what these contain and assist you to record events during the game:
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Referee Reporting to CODA – (Complaints, Objections, Disciplinary and Appeals)
Referee duty is to report to the CODA officer in their County, Province or National depending what level
of game they are refereeing at any sending off, Red cards or incidents of verbal abuse.
The referee has 48 hours to report the Incident to the Coda officer, this evidence can be provided via e
mail, photograph and then must be followed up with Official match report. Time lines outlined below:
Disciplinary Matter
on/off Field Misconduct Disciplinary Report
(within 48 hours of incident)
Strauight Red
Proposal of 4 week ban
CODA Investigate
Request/Notice of Hearing (any sanction proposal, to be accepted within 24hours)
Notify Parties
(withing 48 hours of notice)
Notice of Appeals
(witjhin 3 days of written dec)
Appeals Hearong
(dec within 48 hours of hearing)
Request For DRA Arbitration
(within 7 days of Appeals dec) DRA Arbitration
(final and Binding)
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DISCIPLINARY ACTION
A Disciplinary Action is commenced when:
i. The referee sends a Member off the field of play for a straight red card;
ii. The Referee’s Report warrants further disciplinary action relating to an incident on or off the field
of play;
iii. An incident comes to the attention to the CODA that warrants Disciplinary Action;
iv. The Referee’s Report does not record an incident on the field of play but which incident was
witnessed and is recorded on the official match video;
v. The CODA on receiving a Disciplinary Report relating to misconduct off the field of play, received
within 7 days of the alleged misconduct occurring;
vi. A Club Disciplinary Matter is commenced when the Club Disciplinary Officer starts an investigation
of their own initiative or on the prompting of any third party.
WHAT MATTERS CODA DEALS WITH
DISCIPLINARY MATTER
a. Breach of any rules, regulations and Codes of Ethics of the Association;
b. Verbal abuse;
c. Physical abuse,
d. Insulting behaviour to other competitors, match officials and/or any LGFA Officials;
e. Violation of instructions and directives from match officials and/or LGFA officials;
f. Failure or refusal to comply with an investigation carried out by an Official without acceptable
justification
g. Abuse or discrimination on the grounds of colour, race, disability, gender, sexual orientation,
religion or ethnic origin;
h. Foul play i.e. use of excessive force
i. Serious foul play inciting a brawl or violence
j. Match fixing; (x) Forgery or falsification;
k. Forgery or falsification
l. Improperly influencing the outcome of a game for financial gain
m. Bringing the Ladies Gaelic Football Association into disrepute;
n. Alcohol or substance abuse by minor Members at an Event;
o. Criminal investigation for indictable offences;
p. Criminal conviction likely to bring the LGFA into disrepute;
q. Mischievous or vexatious Complaints;
r. Participation at an Event without the permission of the LGFA;
s. Purporting to represent the LGFA without the permission of the LGFA;
t. Taking part in a competition organised by a club or committee not affiliated to the LGFA with the
exception of those sanctioned events listed in the Rules.
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SANCTIONS
3.1.1 The Hearings Committee or Appeals Committee has sole jurisdiction to impose a Sanction(s)
3.1.2 In circumstances where it is not possible to identify the perpetrator(s) of an offence, the relevant
Team or Unit can be sanctioned.
3.1.3 A Sanction may be imposed for offences which have escaped the match official’s attention.
3.1.4 A Sanction may be imposed on a Member, Unit, Team or Participant.
3.1.5 A Sanction may only be imposed by a Hearings Committee or Appeals Committee following a
decision on foot of an oral hearing, unless otherwise prescribed in these rules.
3.1.6 Any Sanction imposed shall be effective throughout the LGFA from the date of oral or written
(whichever is the earlier) notification until the sanction period has expired, save for automatic
playing bans.
SUSPENSIONS
The suspension of a member means suspension from:
a. Playing in games;
b. Refereeing or acting as any match official;
c. Acting as a manager, mentor, coach, selector, female liaison officer, water carrier, runner, physio
or first aider;
d. Being in the dressing room on match day;
e. Being in the team bench area;
f. Being inside the fencing of an enclosed pitch, during the course of the game.
g. Hold officership of the Association;
A suspended playing member may train with her team.
This rule does not forbid a suspended member from being present at a game or training session, or
drawing up a training schedule for implementation by fellow selectors.
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Conflict
Management
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Conflict Management
Conflict is usually a difference of opinions between the officials and the mentors, the players, the spectators or the administrators.
Why does Conflict Occur?
Lack of respect
Looking to blame
Want to question decisions
Desire to win at all costs
Lack of information or understanding
Inability to communicate effectively
Recognising Conflict
Facial expression and body language
Non‐verbal signs of disgust
Signs of aggression
Repetitive in comments
Dealing With Conflict
1. Control negative comments 2. Focus on the current situation 3. Limit your remarks to a few words 4. If the problem is a judgement call do not discuss it, just get game restarted quickly 5. Be decisive not ‘wishy‐washy’
When dealing with conflict! Remember SMILE
S ‐ Stay Calm
M ‐ Make eye contact
I ‐ Don’t get too involved
L ‐ Listen & Clarify
E ‐ Engage in a non‐aggressive but confident manner
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Physical
Fitness
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Fitness
Fitness is a fundamental requirement for refereeing. Fitness is essential for:
Keeping up with play and positioning
Making quality and correct decisions, mental alertness
Maintaining concentration for the full duration of the game.
Self‐ confidence
Avoid fatigue
LGFA Five Point Fitness Plan
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Referee Fitness Training
Warm‐up exercises
The referee should warm up with their team on match day. Each session begins with an intense warm‐up
to ensure readiness and to reduce the risk of injury. The referee should also complete a cool‐down at the
end of the game to slow their heart rate and this should consist on light jogging and static stretches from
the warm‐up.
Begin running the width of the pitch, you should run 4 width of the pitch at an easy pace to
ensure increase heart rate and blood circulating.
This should be followed with stretches Hamstring sweep, Quad stretch, Knee Hug, Lunge and
Twist, Groin stretch, Hamstring/high kicks, high knees, Butt kicks, over the fence, counter
movement jump.
This should be followed with a series of sprints, half pace, ¾ pace building to full sprint, recovery
and sprint again.
Referee should consider using the Injury Prevention warm up as part of their routine with further details
available at the link below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YbZA9WOzXw
Key Components of Referee Fitness
Endurance
» The ability to maintain prolonged physical activity
To enhance endurance:
A referee should train 3 to 5 days per week » Swimming, running, cycling and can be built up over time
Sample Endurance Training —Fartlek Training
Fartlek training involves continuous movement but at different speeds. The best place to use this type of
training is on a pitch, using the lines on the pitch to indicate a different speed as in the example below:
1. Run 150 m at jogging pace (one length of pitch)
2. Sprint for 50 m (half of width)
3. Run 100 m at medium pace (rest of width and half of length)
4. Jog 50 m (to 21m line)
5. Run backward for 10 m to corner
6. Jog 40 m (half of width)
7. Sprint remaining 50 m. You should continue this process for 20 minutes
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Speed
» Speed is the ability to move quickly across the ground or move limbs rapidly to grab or throw.
To improve running speed requires a training program that focuses on leg strength and power, with
appropriate technique training to best utilize your strength and power development.
Sample Speed Drill
1. Light jog
2. Increase pace to the 13m line
3. Increase pace to a stride at the 21m line
4. Increase pace to a flat out sprint from the 45m line to the 65m line
5. Jog back to start. Complete 5—10 sets Agility Drill Set
6. 6 markers in a zig‐zag formation. Sprint around outside of markers twice. Repeat 5—10 times.
Strength
» Ability to exert forceful and prolonged muscular contractions
Improving and maintaining Strength » 2/3 times per week » Exercises should be specific to movements
involved in a game
Flexibility
» Important for overall joint health and prevention of injuries
Benefits
Injury prevention
Reduction of post exercise muscle soreness Improving and maintaining Flexibility
» At least 15 minutes of flexibility exercises » Stretch after a light jog or light activity » Pre and post
exercise stretching routines should specifically address your legs
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Sample Sessions ‐ 6‐week Training Plan
WEEK 1 (1200 METRES) 6 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min/
5 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min
4 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 6 min
WEEK 2 (1280 METRES) 7 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min/
5 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min
4 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 6 mln
WEEK 3 (1360 METRES) 8 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min/
5 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min
4 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 6 mln
WEEK 4 (1440 METRES) 8 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min/
5 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min
5 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 6 min
WEEK 5 (1680 METRES) 9 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min/
6 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min
6 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 6 min
WEEK 6 (1760 METRES) 10 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 min/
6 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 4 win
6 x 80 m in 20 secs with 20 sec recovery/jog 6 min
Remember you do not need to train every day and also to be aware of your busy days were you may be
tired. Try to plan at beginning of each week when you will have your sessions throughout that week
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Mental
Preparation
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Decision Making
One of the key characteristics of expert referees is that they make decisions in an apparently effortless, intuitive manner. Call what you see ‐ what you didn't see didn't happen! It is better to skip a call because you didn't actually see it happen than it is to make a call based on circumstantial or third party evidence unless you were alerted by a fellow official (umpire, linesperson). Training Decision Making
Simulation of games/sessions in structured exercises (video based/real life) Learn to identify critical cues which requires simulation exercises to train perception of pattern
recognition Review prior experiences and identify where decisions were needed Novice referees should analyse situations of experienced referees and decisions they took at
certain times
Tips
Know the rules Know the language of the sport Master the signals and employ them properly Understand the games rhythms and strategies Be in proper position Remain calm Concentrate and focus on essential elements Work closely with fellow officials
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Nutrition &
Hydration
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Referee Nutrition and Hydration
It is as important as a referee to eat well and be hydrated the same as expected as a player. The referee covers on average 5k a match so they need to make sure their body it fuelled with the right food and water. This assists with energy, concentration and performance levels. Below is referee five point plan for tips.
LGFA Five Point Nutrition & Hydration Plan
Kit Bag Snack Ideas
It is recommended to have a snack within 15 minutes of finishing exercise to assist with recovery. Below
are some ideas of what you could include in your kit bag:
Biscuits e.g. digestive, fig rolls, jaffa cakes
Fruit juices, squash, sports drinks
Sweets e.g. jelly babies, fruit gums, pastilles
Sandwiches, rolls, pitta bread
Fruit e.g. apples, bananas
Fruit loaf, scones, muffins
Dried fruit e.g. currants, apricots
Cereal bars, fruit yogurts, milkshakes
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Team Work
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Teamwork Matters
For an enjoyable game, you need good officiating, and for good officiating you need great teamwork. You can be the best referee in the world but without good team dynamics your game will suffer.
We have all been there many times: where we didn’t notice anything wrong. We were even happy convincing ourselves about how good the calls had been on the game. Now we know that it is not only our performance that is the ultimate key. If is the TEAM that matters!
What makes a team work?
Think about your last game when the team was in perfect sync. Your colleagues knew that you would make the call on your area when it was necessary and you knew that they would only help you out when it was really desirable. When you needed it, they did help you out and you were grateful for the assistance instead of thinking they were doubting you.
Team TRUST!
It is just as simple as that. You have to trust each other within the team to foster collaboration on the pitch. If you don’t trust your team, your subconscious will find creative ways to show your doubt in their abilities. And when you do trust them, they will feel it and act on it. A lot of conflicts are involved in every game. Why put more stress on yourself on the pitch when it is not necessary? With trust binding your team, you will have much less weight on your shoulders.
How to build trust?
The beauty of giving trust is that you get it back almost instantly. You want to tell them you trust them, but really mean it! Start by collecting evidence on why you can trust them. Even a small agreement is enough to feel that you are similar. Notice things you can agree with.
Similarity is the foundation of rapport, and rapport is the catalyst of trust. Look for similarities, communicate, and show appreciation. This means you trust them, and you will get their trust in exchange.
This is the best value one can get for good teamwork… to make the dream work!
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Team of Officials
It is essential that the referee works with other officials assigned on the day. The full possible team is listed below and the number of these assigned to a game would depend on the level of the game taking place and the organising committee. It is recommended that all referees should have their own four umpires at all games.
Referee
Umpiresx2
Lines People
x2
Clock Official
4th
Official
Hawkeye
Score Assistant
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Umpire
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Powers of an LGFA Umpire
There shall be two goal Umpires at each end of the field of play. An Umpire shall stand outside each
goalpost and behind the end line. The umpires shall remain at the same end for the duration of the game.
The Umpires shall decide if a score is made, or if the ball has crossed the end line for a wide or for a 45m
free.
Duties of an LGFA Umpire
The umpires shall decide if a score is made and shall make the relevant signal for a score, wide, 45 and
disallowed score. (For more information see Scores & Signals);
The Umpires shall bring to the notice of the referee, during a break in play, any instances of foul play &
any unauthorised incursions onto the field of play, which have not been noticed by the Referee.
Important to remember;
Any fouls drawn to the attention of the referee by the umpire, the referee may apply the appropriate penalty as outlined in the LGFA Official Guide Part 2.
The Referee has the power to over‐rule a decision of an Umpire.
In addition to the referee one umpire to record the score during the game to assist the referee.
All Officials should enter the field of play together for the start of the game and for the start of the 2nd half.
At the end of the 1st half and at the end of the game, both linespersons and side line official should make their way to the referee and the four officials leave together. Umpires should leave the field in pairs.
During a break in play, the umpires must fully concentrate on the game.
Umpires must support the decision made by the referee during the game and not give conflicting opinion to Team Officials.
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Square Ball
In the majority of cases for set play the Referee will be in a position to monitor the square and make the
decision on a square ball.
In open play, the position, movement & team work of the umpires is vital to be able to correctly monitor
the small rectangle and make judgement on square ball. The umpire closest to the play should get into a
position to judge the shot which may creep in under the crossbar, as well as judging the small rectangle.
The second umpire should be back in position behind the goal so that they can judge both posts from
behind.
If the umpires feel there has been a square ball infraction which has resulted in the ball going over the
bar or into the back of the net, then the umpires should make no signal, which will alert the referee to
there being an issue, and the referee should go to the green flag where s/he should consult with BOTH
umpires. Following consultation, the umpires should make the relevant signal. (If the decision is that it
was a square ball infraction then the umpires should cross the flags in front of the goal, even if no signal
was previously made by the umpires.)
One of the key duties of the umpire is to make the relevant signal for a score, wide, 45 and disallowed
score.
When making the relevant signal, the following should be noted;
Both umpires should be in agreement before any signal is made
At NO TIME should umpires make conflicting signals
The umpire should appear confident in making the signal
Umpires can choose the side for goals & points flag
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45m Free
For a 45m free the umpire shall signal the free by raising an arm upright, and then pointing
directly infield, at the place where the ball passed over the endline
The Umpire shall signal a wide by crossing both arms above their head
A score by raising a green flag for a goal or a white flag for a point
A decision to disallow a score by crossing the flags at the centre of the scoring space. This should
be carried out by the Goal Umpire
Goal Point Wide
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Disallowed Goal
Cross flags in front of scoring space
Goal umpire both flags
Cross in front of goal to collect flag
Signal to be made in all cases where “score” appears to have been made
Position & Movement Umpire
Below are the agreed positions for Umpires to enable them to be in the best possible position to made
decisions on scores and misses.
The following points should be considered;
Communication between a pair of Umpires is key, talk to each other at all times, inform the other
umpire if you are moving up to the post, if they are required to drop back
Umpires need to be light on their feet, to allow them to quickly get into position
Be alert to turn overs in play
Be alert to shots dropping short and the position of the attacking player in relation to the small
rectangle
Be alert to shots hitting the post and coming back into play
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Linesperson
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Duties of Linesperson
The linespersons duties shall be:
Enter the pitch to either side of referee with flag in outside hand followed by the umpires
Decide which side you will stand
Warm up with referee
If no fourth official the lines person should introduce yourself to both managers and tell them to
let you know when they want a sub. Their sub should be ready to go on
Have a full knowledge of the rules
To decide where the ball crosses the sideline and to which team the sideline kick is to be awarded
Point the flag in the direction in which the sideline kick is to be taken
Deal with and bring to the referee’s attention, any incidents which the referee may not have seen,
or incursions onto the field of play by the team managers, coaches, selectors or unauthorised
persons.
Control the substitution zone
Position & Movement Linesperson
Linesperson on the side that ball is travelling keeps up with play while
other linesperson takes up position slightly behind watching play
behind referee’s back
Essential to be up with play – move with the ball
Place yourself in line with one of outside midfielders for throw in so
view is not blocked
Face the field of play at all times and ensure that you can make eye contact with the referee
Remember the WHOLE ball must cross the line so you must be in a good position to ensure this
You may mark a free within 10m of the side line if there is stoppage in play
Move in line with umpire to mark a 45m kick. Ensure ball in position before returning
Footwork will be key to being in correct position
Linesperson to use side to side shuffle to move along the line and can still face play
If play speeds up, you can turn and sprint but ensure that you continue to look at play
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Fourth
Official
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Fourth Official
Where a fourth official is used, s/he should be situated along the side‐line approx. midways on the field
of play. S/he may be appointed by the County Board, Provincial or Central Council or their sub‐
committees. Their duties shall include receiving, recording and reporting all substitutions and temporary
substitutions made during a game and display by means of electronic or manual board the numbers of
players being substituted, timing of Sin Bins and advise other match officials of any incidents that may
occur including advice on scores.
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Score Assistant
& Hawkeye
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Score Assistant ‐ Live Games
The LGFA are using video technology at all live games to assist the referee with scores. Below is an outline of how the technology is used and how the process works.
If an error has been made and a point/goal was incorrectly awarded or incorrectly not awarded, then
score assistant will come into effect to seek clarification.
Role of Score Assistant
The Score Assistant is added to the group of officials who will be linked to the referee & umpires
via the communication system
The score assistant can review both goals and points from their position in the production truck
The role of the Score Assistant is to assist with scores only – no other decisions
They must attend the pre‐match meeting with referees and officials – be there one hour prior to
game
Ensure they are in place in the TG4 truck at least 15 minutes prior to throw in of the game. Ensure
they are back in the truck 5 minutes before throw in of the second half
When the referee is on pitch at the start of the game and again after half time, do a test to ensure
open communication
In the truck there are two buttons you will need:
o Referee – press and hold this button to communicate with referee
o Director – press and hold this button to communicate with director to get replays of
incident
Score Assistant will be seated at screens which will contain all angles but please note that they
cannot replay an incident themselves and they will need to call the director to get this and it will
only be at a break in play that TG4 can provide them with this
There are two instances that you may need this:
o The referee calls them for clarification
o They CLEARLY see from TG4 or replay that the decision was incorrect. It is important that if
it is not a clear error they see being made then they remain with the umpire’s decision
As per referee guidelines below as soon as they see the referee moving towards the umpires or
making a call to them then they can request director to start the replays
Role of Referee
Key thing is nothing has changed in relation to refereeing, this is just an extra eye to have to assist
if unsure on SCORES ONLY
The system will also help communication but it should be noted that nobody should be talking on
the system except the referee unless asked a question by the referee or need to being bring a sub
or incident to their attention
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Scenarios
If umpires are unsure the process remains the same in that they alert the referee and referee will
meet them at the green flag post. When the referee gets to the post they will then signal (same as
hawk‐eye signal). The score assistant will have started looking at replays as soon as umpire had
alerted and referee will then wait for decision of the score assistant.
If umpires signalled for a score/ wide but score assistant seen something different immediately
then the score assistant will alert the referee to hold play and as above the referee will call both
umpires to green flag post, signal and await clarification. The umpires will then use appropriate
signal for the result of the review.
If umpires signalled for a score/wide and play continued straight away but the score assistant
sees a clear mistake on watching a replay when the opportunity arises the score assistant notifies
the referee at next stoppage. The referee will go to the umpires make the ‘hawk‐eye’ signal and
then get the umpire to make the correct signal e.g. Raise white flag if a point is missed. The fourth
official will at the same time bring both managers together on side line and explain the reason for
the decision. Play restarts from where the referee stopped play and not back at the goals. This is
only when a decision is CLEARLY incorrect.
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Hawk Eye
A Referee may seek and/or obtain clarification that a ball has gone between the posts for a point or
outside the posts for a wide or 45m free, from the Hawk‐Eye Score Detection System or Score Assistant,
operating for games played in Croke Park or at other venues with Hawkeye that are approved.
The following key points should be noted in relation to Hawk Eye.
The Hawk Eye System is an extra tool for the match officials, and officials should not be afraid to
use it. If in Doubt, Check It Out! Better to Call Hawk‐Eye, Than Have Hawk‐Eye Call You!
Hawk Eye can only make a judgement if the ball has gone between the posts and if a point should
be awarded, it cannot make a judgement between a wide or a 45 and cannot be used for goals.
Below is the protocol to be following in relation to the different scenario involving hawk eye;
Umpires unable to make a decision, unsure of the correct decision or disagree on the correct decision
1. Umpires agree on their “decision to go for hawk eye/ score assistant”
2. Umpires should not make any wide or point signal
3. Umpire communicates to referee who then makes a ‘box’ signal with his/her hands to indicate to
the referee that a request for a Hawk‐Eye/ Score Assistant review is being sought
4. Referee seeks score review via communication system
5. The Hawk‐Eye replay is shown on the Big Screen or in case of score assistant the referee waits at
green flag post with umpires
6. Referee consult and indicates and awards either a ‘point’ or a miss i.e. a wide or a ’45. Umpire
signals the decision
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Hawk Eye Signal
The Hawk Eye “Box” should be made using the protocol;
1. Start at your Belly Button with both arms together
2. Bring both arms out past your body
3. Bring both arms straight up to head height
4. Then bring arms together
This signal should be made by the Umpire when requesting hawk eye and then by the referee.
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Self‐
Reflection
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Self‐Competency Assessment
Having both the ability and willingness to self‐evaluate is critical to becoming a better referee. You must be able to critique yourself and be critiqued by others. Referees are usually their own greatest critic and this should be the case. After every game you should analyse your match performance and identify those aspects of your game that you did well and those that you feel you may have done better.
In order to assist you in an honest and constructive evaluation, it is suggested that you ask yourself the following questions in relation to your recent performance:
Competent Needs
Improvement
Not
Applicable
PERSONALITY
I was firm but fair when dealing with players
I was approachable
I was respectful to players
I remained calm
I was decisive when making decisions
FITNESS
I was able to keep up with play
I displayed a willingness to be involved in the game
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POSITIONING
I was facing play
I moved to get a side‐on view of challenges
I used dead ball time to move to a new best position
RULES OF THE GAME
I recognised fair challenges
I recognised careless/ forceful challenges
I had a clear understanding of the rules
FLOW OF THE GAME
I restarted play promptly after stoppages
I applied advantage with voice and arm signals
CONTROL OF THE GAME
I checked the field and equipment before kick off
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I spoke quietly to players on the run as appropriate
I managed injury situations appropriately
DUTIES
I was at the ground at least 30 minutes before throw in
I used the whistle clearly so it could be heard by the players
I signalled clearly and correctly
Reflection Notes
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Code of Ethics
& Vetting
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Referee Code of Ethics
Referees must act as a role model and promote positive aspects of Ladies Gaelic Football and maintain
the highest standards of personal conduct. Referees should respect the rights, dignity and worth of every
player and treat each player equally, regardless of ethnic origin or ability.
It is important to realise that certain situations or friendly actions could be misinterpreted by the
participant or by outsiders. If you must provide transport for players, avoid travelling alone with one
player. Players should always sit in the back seat and ensure seats belts are used at all times.
Avoid entering player dressing rooms. If a manager requests you to speak to players, instruct the
manager to gather the players on the pitch. If you must enter the dressing room, ensure that you have
been granted permission and all players are appropriately dressed.
It is your duty as a member of the Association to be aware of and report any incidents which are in
breach of the Code of Ethics.
For more information on the Code of Ethics and good practice see the link below
https://ladiesgaelic.ie/referees/code‐ethics‐good‐practice/
All referees should have Completed Garda Vetting and the Child safeguarding course.
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Social Media Usage and Officiating
LGFA would like to take this opportunity to remind you of your responsibilities as a match official
regarding Social Media and how to keep yourself safe.
Match officials need to act responsibly both on and off the field of play, and this includes the use of
electronic communications, such as social media. So many people are using social media now and any
comments made on these sites are in the public domain, and as such, may reflect badly on The LGFA,
Province, County and all match officials, and more importantly, yourself.
Consider social media communications as public at all times — even if created with private intentions. If
you are going to use social media in any form, consider your communication may be read by anyone at
anytime.
You represent officials and the association at the level you officiate at. Act accordingly.
Promote officiating in a positive light and with a general feeling of pride and professionalism. You
are an ambassador for officiating.
You have a unique access to information. Ensure ethical restrictions apply. It is inappropriate to
communicate specifics about your assignments, other officials, games, coaches, players or any
related personnel.
Do not make any comment about colleagues (this includes all referees, just because a referee has
given a penalty against your county or club, this doesn’t make it ok for you to publically question
their integrity/ability)
Do not engage in specific play and or ruling evaluation/commentary, whether it be from a game
you officiated, one that you witnessed or in general about the impact of officials.
Be very sparing in the sharing of your personal information, including photos. Adjust security
settings accordingly. Report fake profiles or posts to the appropriate authorities/governing bodies
in a timely fashion.
As an official you should not upload pictures of yourself with players.
Match officials should not add players as friends as this can be seen as a conflict of interest and
also to respect their privacy.
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Assessments
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Assessments
Referee assessments are conducted at National and Provincial level, in in some counties. An assessment is not completed to criticise a referee but rather to provide guidance and support to ensure continuous professional development.
Benefits
Help referees to improve and become better referees
Assist with referee development and retention
Protect standards of Refereeing within the Association
Assist to motivate referees to improve their refereeing skills
Role of an Assessor
Knowledge of the Rules of the Game
Ability to view the game through the eyes of the referee
Objectively analyse the performance of the Referee
Ability to prioritise strength and development areas of the referee’s performance
Ability to provide a solution to any shortcoming
Ability to motivate officials to improve their refereeing skills
Ability to present all relevant information in a legible format
What Should a Referee Do If They Get Assessed?
Firstly read the full form fully and not just the initial page or the grading
Reflect back on the game yourself taking on board the comments
Important to make contact with the assessor to discuss the form in greater detail as discussion can provide valued additional support
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Referee &
Player Attire
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Player Attire
It is the role of the referee to ensure that players are properly attired and the rules in relation to this
from the LGFA Official Guide are below:
The attire to be worn shall consist of jersey, shorts, socks and boots.
For all games undergarments/compression shorts should not exceed the length of the shorts and be of the same colour as the outer garments. The goalkeeper may wear track‐suit bottoms.
The referee must include in referee report if a player is in breach of above.
Players shall not wear jewellery, (with the exception of wedding rings which must be covered by a tape), hair slides or any other items that may cause injury while playing Ladies Gaelic Football.
If in the referee’s opinion any player is not safely attired, she shall be asked to rectify the situation. Should she refuse to do so the referee shall order her off the field until the situation is rectified.
Any player who requires corrective eyewear and wants to wear glasses to participate in Ladies Gaelic Football must wear glasses that use durable, unbreakable polycarbonate for the lens and have durable unbreakable frames as advised by an optometrist to play gaelic games.
All players must wear a mouth guard while playing Ladies Gaelic Football unless advised otherwise, in writing, not to do so, by a qualified Doctor or Dentist. Should she fail to do so, the referee shall order her off the field until the situation is rectified.
Role of the Referee in Relation to Mouthguards
If a player refuses to comply with a referee’s instruction to wear a mouthguard, she shall be asked to rectify the situation. Should she refuse to do so the referee shall order her off the field until the situation is rectified.
If the player returns to the playing field and the referee sees them later without a mouthguard they should issue the player with a yellow card for dissent or challenging authority of referee.
Referee Attire
The referee should wear the official LGFA Referee kit available from the LGFA office and must comply
with the rules above in relation to compression garments the same as players.
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Score Keeping
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Score Keeping
Every referee will use their own style to keep the score during games. It is important that you use a
method that you can understand and find easiest. This will ensure that you do not make mistakes during
games. Below are a few sample score taking methods. Advice is to try a few of these and see what works
best for you.
Below are some examples used by referees:
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Concussion
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Concussion
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Carding &
Sin Bin
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Carding Procedure
In ladies gaelic football there are only two cards; red and yellow. A referee should hold the card above
his/her head clearly when issuing a card and not into the face of a player. It should be visible to all in
attendance. Below are the instances where a referee will issue a card:
Player order off and not replaced by substitute
Player carded (name taken) Sin bin 10 Minutes
+ = Player sent off and NOT replaced by substitute
SIN BIN
A “Sin Bin” Rule shall apply in all grades of
football from Under 14 upwards. Where a
player commits a First Yellow Card Offence,
she shall have her name taken and sent off
the Field of Play for 10 minutes Playing Time
(Sin Bin) in games of 1 Hour Duration or
more. She may remain with her substitute
colleagues.
In games of less than 30 minutes a half from
Under 14 upwards she shall be sent to the
Sin Bin for 5 mins Playing Time. Where such
a game goes into Extra Time that may
exceed 1 hour duration, the Sin Bin time
shall be for 5 mins for ease of
implementation purposes.
Where games are 15 mins or less per half
then the Sin Bin time will be 3 minutes playing
time.
She may resume playing after the 3, 5 or 10 minutes Playing Time has elapsed and only with the consent
of the referee or designated official. The duration of the Sin Bin is governed by the duration of Normal
time.
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Playing Rules
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FIELD OF PLAY
1. Ladies Gaelic Football is played on a full size GAA pitch from Under 14 upwards. The pitch may be reduced in size for Under 13 and younger grades.
2. The dimensions of the field of play, scoring space and the duration of the game may be reduced by the organising committee for competitions less than 15 a side.
DURATION OF GAMES
1. The duration of Competitive Games from and including U14 upwards is 30 mins per half ‐ 1 hour.
2. An interval not exceeding 15 minutes shall be allowed at half time in normal time, and 5 minutes at half time in extra time.
3. 7 a Side & Blitz Competitions are exempted ‐ the duration of same shall be determined by the Organising Committee.
4. The duration of games from U13 downwards may be reduced as determined by the Organising Committee.
TEAMS
1. Teams shall consist of 15 players a side unless deemed otherwise by the organising body.
2. In 15 a side competition a team must have 11 players to start a game. They may finish with 11 or less.
3. Duplicate list of players giving full names and in the case of Inter County games the clubs to which the players belong must be given to the referee before game.
4. A size 4 football is used in all grades of competition from U‐12 upwards. A smaller size 3 or Go Games football may be used in younger age groups.
5. Each player’s jersey number must correspond to that player’s name on the team list.
6. Where more than 15 names appear on team lists, the first 15 shall be taken as constituting the actual team, unless otherwise clearly indicated.
7. Clubs, Counties or Provinces must supply to the organising Committee or Council, team lists of their starting 15 players and their substitutes, where required for publication.
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SUBS & EXTRA TIME
1. For Intercounty competitions Unlimited Substitutions are allowed in the National League up to the Quarter final stage and in the Group stages of the Provincial Underage Championships. However, for the Quarter finals, Semi‐finals and Finals of the National Leagues and the semi‐finals and finals of the Provincial Underage championships only 5 substitutions are allowed. Only 5 substitutes shall be allowed in Adult Provincial and National championships. An additional 5 subs are allowed where Extra Time, which consists of 10 mins each way, is played.
2. Unlimited subs may be allowed for games that are played at club level within the county. The number of subs can be determined by the County Board. However, they cannot be less than 5.
3. A substitute shall NOT be allowed for a player who has been sent off by the referee during a game. However, where a player is ordered off in Normal Time, she may be replaced by a sub for Extra Time.
4. Where extra time is played in a game, a player sent to the sin bin for a first yellow card offence in normal time can be replaced by a substitute in extra time until she has served her ten minutes playing time in the sin bin. Should the sin binned player resume playing after her Sin Bin time has expired and having been replaced by a substitute for extra time, her team shall be deemed to have used a second substitute. A player sent off for 2 yellow card offences in Normal Time can be replaced for Extra Time.
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BLOOD RULE
1. A player who is bleeding, has blood on her body or playing attire, as a result of an injury sustained during play, shall, on the instructions of the referee, immediately leave the field of play to receive medical attention. She shall not return to the field of play until the bleeding has stopped, all blood has stopped, all blood cleaned off and the blood stained attire cleaned or replaced.
2. The injured area should be covered where possible. The injured player may be replaced by a Blood Substitute who shall notify the referee in writing, that she is a Blood Substitute.
3. The Blood Substitute shall NOT count as a substitute allowed under the normal substitution rules, if or when the injured player returns to the field, as a Direct Replacement for the player who replaced her.
4. Where the injured player returns to the field of play as a replacement for any other player, apart from the Blood Substitute that directly replaced her, her team shall be deemed to have used a Normal Substitution.
5. Where a Blood Substitution is sent off, her team shall substitute another player if they wish to bring the original player back onto the field of play. This shall NOT count as a Normal Substitution.
6. Where a team has used their full complement of Normal Substitutions in either Normal or Extra Time and a player suffers a blood injury, she may be replaced with a Blood Substitute.
7. When the player who had the Blood injury is ready to resume playing, she shall present herself to the referee during a stoppage in play. The referee should ensure that the bleeding has stopped, the attire is replaced or cleaned and that the Blood Substitute has left the field. Where the injured player resumes with a different numbered jersey, the referee should note the new number.
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PLAYING RULES
1. A player may pick the ball off the ground with the toe, or with one or both hands, providing she is in standing position.
2. A player while on the ground may play the ball away from her, but cannot bring it into her possession.
3. The ball when caught may be: kicked, struck with the fist or open hand; hopped once with one or both hands or solo it toe to hand.
4. A ball that has not been caught may be bounced more than once in succession with one or both hands.
5. A player may change the ball from one hand to the other once, provided the original holding hand maintains contact with the ball until the change is completed.
6. A player may not kick the ball as an opponent is about to pick it up or take it into her possession.
7. The ball shall not be held longer than is necessary to move 4 steps and kick it off on the 5th step.
8. A player may not throw the ball.
9. There shall be no deliberate bodily contact.
10. Shouldering is not allowed.
11. Where a referee stops play to deal with an injured player(s), the team in possession of the ball at the time the referee stopped play, shall retain possession on the restart. Play is restarted with a kick ball to the team that had possession. However that team cannot score directly from the kick ball and all players must be 13m from the ball when play is resuming. Where none of the teams had possession of the ball when the referee stopped play, play is resumed with a throw in between one player from both teams.
12. When a player is handpassing the ball, there must be a visible striking action with the passing hand.
13. Showing the Ball or Turning Twice with the ball is NOT a foul providing it is done within the 4 step rule.
14. A player may toss up the ball with one hand and play it off with the same hand.
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15. Underage Intercounty players can only play in their own age group and one grade above it. (eg Under 14 player can play at U/14 and U/16, but not U/17 upwards. An Under 15 or 16 player cannot play at Junior, Intermediate or Senior level).
16. A.N. Other is not considered as a playing member and must not be included in a match programme or team list. Failure to do so will result in a fine at the discretion of the Committee or Council in charge of the fixture.
THE TACKLE
1. A player holding the ball into her body cannot be legally dispossessed. Any attempt to do so will result in a free for her and her team.
2. When making a tackle to dispossess a player of the ball, it must be timed when the player in possession is soloing, bouncing, kicking or passing the ball. The ball must be knocked from the opponents hand by flicking it with the open hand or hands.
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ADVANTAGE RULE
1. The Advantage Rule applies in Ladies Gaelic Football. However it is not a licence to let fouls go unpunished. Disciplinary action as warranted may be applied to the offender after playing the Advantage Rule.
2. The Advantage Rule should be applied when the player in possession of the ball is Free and Capable of taking the Advantage i.e. The Advantage has to be obvious.
3. If a foul occurs, the referee may allow play to continue for up to 5 seconds after the foul has been committed if s/ he considers this to be to the advantage of the offended team. Where no advantage accrues the referee may award a free from where the original foul occurred.
Should the foul occur inside the 13 metre line apart from Penalty Kicks, the referee shall award the free from the 13 metre line opposite to where the foul occurred. Disciplinary action, if warranted, may be applied to the offender, who, in any event, should be advised by the referee at the next break in play, that a foul had been committed.
Good Advantage Tips
Be confident
Be Consistent
Signal essential
Five second recall
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COMMENCEMENT OF PLAY
The referee commences play at the start of the game and that of the second half by blowing the whistle and throwing in the ball between two centre field players from each side. All other players shall be behind the 45m line and in their respective attacking and defending positions.
BALL IN PLAY
1. The ball is in play once it has been thrown in or kicked after the referee has given the signal to start play.
2. The ball is in play until the whole ball has passed over the goal line, end line or side line, or the referee signals a stoppage in play.
3. If the ball strikes the referee, in general play, a throw in should be given. However if the team that had possession of the ball retained possession of it, the referee should allow play to continue. If it strikes the referee from a free, the free shall be retaken.
4. A referee must extend time in each half for delays or extend time for a free to be taken. Where the referee indicates that it is the last kick of the half from a Free Kick, a score can only result when it is scored directly from the Free Kick or if the ball is deflected under or over the crossbar by a member of the defending team.
5. When a clashed ball crosses the end line it shall be regarded as a wide.
BALL OUT OF PLAY
1. The ball is out of play when all of the ball passes outside of the boundary lines of the field of play.
2. Should the ball strike any of the flags it shall be deemed to be out of play. If the ball strikes the corner or sideline flags it is a side ‐ line ball.
SCORES
1. A score results when the ball is kicked, flicked, fisted or palmed in flight by any part of the body, except when thrown or carried over the line by the Attacking Side.
2. A goal is not allowed if the ball is fisted or palmed directly from the hands over the goal line.
3. Any player who falls or is knocked to the ground whilst in possession of the ball may fist or palm the ball away on the ground and may score by doing so. 13
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4. Should a defender play the ball in any manner through her own scoring space it shall count as a score
5. A ball carried or thrown over the goal line by an attacking player is not a goal.
6. When the ball hits the uprights or crossbar and rebounds back onto the field of play, it is still in play.
7. A point is allowed, where an Attacking Player is inside the “small square” and the ball goes over the bar, providing that the Attacking Player did not interfere with the defence and that the ball was out of the reach of All players
8. Where a ball goes over the uprights, it is not a point ‐ all of the ball must be between the uprights.
9. Where a shoot‐out takes place after one Period of Extra Time it shall take place from 30 metres, between the two posts, where indicated by the referee, unless in competitions at Under 14 level and below where it shall take place on the 20m line. Each team shall take 5 kicks at point scoring. If the scores are still tied after each team has taken their 5 kicks, sudden death procedure shall follow, using different players within the panel of players, until such time as there is a winner.
Only players who are remaining on the field of play at the end of Extra Time are eligible to take the kicks.
Where a player is Sin Binned or Sent Off the field before the end of Extra Time, that player cannot take part in the shoot‐out.
The ball must go directly over the crossbar, off the crossbar and over, or off the uprights and over the crossbar, to be counted as a point.
A ball that hops in front of the goal and goes over the bar shall not be counted as a point.
Any player that crosses the 30m mark while kicking for a point shall have her score disallowed.
The referee shall add the points scored by both teams in the shoot‐out to the scores at the end of Extra Time in reporting the final score.
Extra Time shall consist of 10 minutes each way.
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FOULS
A critical factor in deciding the difference between the three categories of fouls, ie. Ordinary Fouls, Yellow Card Offences and Red Card Offences is the question of intent.
Red Card Offences
1. The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being given to the opposing team and the offending player being shown a Red card and ordered off the field for the duration of the game including extra time and shoot‐out if applicable.
a. Striking or making a striking action towards an opponent or colleague with hand, fist, arm, elbow, head, knee or object
b. Kicking an opponent or colleague
c. Striking threatening, using abusive language or interfering with a match official
d. Deliberate charge, including frontal charge, or jumping at an opponent, colleague or official 16
e. Deliberate high tackle
f. Deliberate sliding tackle
g. Spitting at an opponent or colleague or official
h. Deliberate pulling of an opponent or colleagues hair
i. Biting an opponent or colleague
j. Stamping on an opponent or colleague
k. Using racist, sectarian or homophobic language or gestures towards an opponent, colleague, mentor, match official or spectator
l. Inciting colleagues or opponents to cause or take part in any type of affray while on the pitch.
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Yellow Card Offences ‐ Sin Bin
The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being given to the opposing team and the offending player’s name taken and shown a Yellow Card and sent Off the Field of Play (Sin Bin) in grades from and including Under 14 upwards.
If she repeats any of these Cautionable Offences upon her resumption, she shall be shown a Second Yellow Card, followed by a Red Card and Sent Off the Field of Play for the duration of the game, which shall include Extra Time and shoot‐out if applicable where played.
In any competition up to and including the Under 13 Grade, the Sin Bin Rule shall not apply.
In competitions up to and including Under 13 the player shall be shown the Yellow Card and if she repeats another Cautionable Offence, she shall be shown a Second Yellow Card, followed by a Red Card and sent off the field of play for the duration of the game and any Extra Time or shoot‐out that may be played.
a. Deliberate pulling down or tripping by the hand or foot
b. High Tackle
c. Charging of an opponent
d. Threatening or using abusive language or gestures towards an opponent or colleague
e. Blocking or attempting to block an opponent with the boot as that player is about to kick the ball from her hands
f. A sliding tackle
g. Kicking the ball with intent as an opposing player is about to pick it up
h. Bringing the fist into contact with the body of an opponent for the purpose of dispossessing her of the ball
i. Dissenting with or challenging the authority of a match official
j. Persistent fouling
k. Feigning injury or diving to gain a free kick/penalty or to get opponent cautioned or sent off.
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Non‐Technical Fouls
The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being awarded to the opposing team. Repetition of these fouls shall constitute a Yellow Card offence with penalties as outlined above.
a. Pushing or holding an opponent
b. Bringing the hand into contact with the body of an opponent for the purpose of dispossessing her of the ball
c. Third player tackle including body checking an opponent
d. Impeding an opponent
e. Diving on the ball as another player is about to pick it up
f. A player in possession of the ball leading with her elbow
g. Frontal pushing of a player
h. Chopping down on the arms of an opponent
i. Provoking or intimidating players by verbal or physical actions
j. Preventing an opponent getting up from the ground
k. Pulling an opponent’s jersey
l. Deliberately delaying the kick out or free kick
m. Deliberately not moving back to allow a quick free to be taken 19
n. Kicking the ball away when a free is awarded against the team in possession of the ball
o. Not releasing the ball when a free is awarded against the player in possession of the ball
p. Use of foul or improper language
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q. Interfering with a free taker by jumping up and down, waving or clapping hands or any other physical or verbal interference aimed at distracting the free taker. Should this occur when an attacking team is awarded a 13 metre free in front of their opponents goal, a penalty shall be awarded. A player may hold her hands upright.
Technical Fouls
a. Overcarrying the ball
b. Throwing the ball
c. Lying on the ball
d. Picking the ball off the ground whilst not in a standing position
e. Bringing the ball into her possession whilst on the ground
f. Changing the ball from hand to hand more than once in succession
g. Hopping the ball more than once in succession after catching it
h. Handpassing the ball without a visible striking action 20
i. Handpassing the ball up and catching it before it touches the ground, or before being touched by another player.
FREE KICKS
1. The penalty for mostly all breaches of the rules is a Free Kick. Exceptions ‐ throw in given for
retaliation, foul at the same time, quick free deliberately played against an opponent and continuous
breach of rule for frees awarded.
2. Once the referee has blown for a free, the ball may be kicked, from the hand, or off the ground, from
where indicated by the referee. However good practice allows latitude of up to 4 metres for the free to
be taken quickly where it prevents or helps to overcome the pay to foul syndrome. If a free has been
taken from the incorrect position, the free should be retaken from where indicated by the referee.
Continued breach of this rule shall result in the free being disallowed and the ball thrown in between a
player from each side and all other players shall be 13m from the throw in.
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3. 45m Kicks may be taken from the hand or off the ground up to and including the Under 14 Grade. They
must be taken off the ground in Under 15 Grade upwards.
Should the taker of the 45m kick foul the ball e.g ball not stationary, taken from the incorrect position
etc., the 45m kick shall be retaken.
Should an opposing player interfere with the taking of 21 the 45m kick, the referee shall award a free
13m forward, nearer to the defending goal.
4. A player has the option of taking all free kicks from the hand or off the ground.
5. Penalty Kicks must be taken off the ground in all grades of competitions.
6. The ball shall be stationary, before a free kick, sideline kick and 45m kick is taken from the ground,
failure to do so shall result in the kick being retaken. However persistent breach of the rule shall result in
the kick being disallowed and play resumed with a throw in ball.
7. When a foul occurs, the referee may allow play to continue for up to 5 seconds after the foul has been
committed if he/she considers this to be an advantage to the offended team.
8. For the sake of continuity of play, all free kicks, except penalty kicks and free kicks on the 13m line,
may be taken quickly. A referee may allow advantage of up to 4 metres for a quick free to be taken.
9. All opposing players must be 13m from the ball when a free kick is being taken.
10. Should a player taking a quick free deliberately play it against an opponent for the purpose of gaining
an advantage, she shall lose her free and the ball shall be thrown up between a player from each side.
11. Should an opposing player stand nearer than 13m, when a freekick, side line kick, or 45m kick is being
taken or illegally charge a free, the opposing team shall be awarded a free kick from where she stood or
illegally charged.
12. When a free kick has been given and the taker passes to a colleague who is less than 13m from the
ball, the opposing team shall be awarded a free kick from where the recipient stood.
13. A free taker may not play the ball again until another player has touched it except where it rebounds
off the crossbar or uprights. Should she do so, the referee shall award a free to the opposing team from
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where the foul occurred. Should the foul occur inside the 13m line the referee shall award the free on the
13m line opposite where the foul occurred.
14. If a foul is committed on a player after she has played the ball;
a. A free shall be awarded from where the ball lands
b. Should she have scored the score shall be allowed
c. Should the ball cross the end line or land inside the 13m line, a free shall be awarded on the 13m
line opposite where the ball landed or crossed the end line
d. Should the ball cross the side line, the free shall be awarded from the point where the ball crosses
the line.
e. If the ball crossed the side line between the 13m line and the end line, the free shall be taken
from the 13m line.
15. Should a player from each side foul at the same time, the referee shall throw the ball over the heads
of one player from each side. All other players shall be 13m away.
16. Once the referee has awarded a free, and prior to it being taken, if a player on the team awarded the
free fouls in retaliation, the free shall be disallowed, and play restarted by the referee, by throwing the
ball over the heads of one player from each team where the original foul occurred.
17. Should a player show dissent with the referee’s decision to award a free to the opposing team, the
free kick shall be awarded from a point 13m more advantageous up to the 13m line. Should the original
free be near the sideline, on or inside the 13m line, the referee shall place the ball on the 13m line, 13m
nearer to the centre of the goal.
PENALTIES
1. A penalty should be awarded when:
a. Any foul is committed by the defence within the small parallelogram. b. A personal foul is committed by the defence on an attacking player within the large parallelogram. c. Where an Attacking player in the large parallelogram has her hands on the ball and the opponent
kicks the ball, the referee shall award a penalty even though the boot may not have come in contact with the player’s hand.
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2. Where a defending player illegally charges a 13m free kick directly in front of the goal, a penalty shall
be awarded.
3. Penalties shall be taken from the ground at the centre point 11m directly in front of the goal. All other
players except the goalkeeper shall be outside the 20m line.
4. The goalkeeper may move along her goal line but cannot advance from the goal line until the ball has
been kicked.
5. If the goalkeeper moves forward before the ball is kicked and the ball goes wide, she saves it or
deflects the ball over the bar, the penalty should be retaken.
6. It is only the player wearing the distinctive jersey enjoys the rights and privileges of a goalkeeper.
PARALLELOGRAM
1. Should an attacking player be within the small parallelogram before the ball enters it during play, and it
is not out of the reach of all players the defending team shall be awarded a free out from within the small
rectangle.
2. Should an attacking player legally enter the small parallelogram after the ball and the ball is cleared
from 25 the area but is returned before the attacking player has had time to leave the area, she shall be
deemed not to have committed an offence provided she does not play the ball or interfere with the
defence.
KICK OUT
1. For the kick out from goal after a wide in all competitions the ball may be kicked from the hands or off
the ground, from the 13 metre line. All players except the kicker and the goal keeper shall be outside the
20 metre line and at least 13 metres from the ball until it is kicked.
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2. The ball must cross the 20 metre line, before being played by another player. Where another player
offends, a free shall be awarded to the opposing team on the 20 metre line opposite, to where the foul
occurred.
3. After a score, the kick out shall be taken from the 20 metre line in front of the goalposts. All players
except the kicker and the goal keeper shall be outside the 20 metre line and at least 13 metres from the
ball until it is kicked.
4. The player taking the kickout off the ground shall have the option of using a tee.
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GAA Rule Differences
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Rule difference between the LGFA and the GAA
1. Kickout after a wide ball:
Either off the ground, from a tee or from the hands from the 13m line
Either off the ground or from a tee from the 13m line
2. Kickout after a score:
Either off the ground from a tee or from the hands from the 20m line
Either off the ground or from a tee from the 13m line
3. Ball received from kickout by player inside 20m line:
Free out from 20m line opposite where foul occurred if forward inside and free in from 20m line if defender inside
Free out from 20m line opposite where foul occurred if forward inside, cancel kick out and throw in the ball on the 20m line in front of the scoring space if defender inside. These apply when player inside before kick out but they may travel inside 20m line after ball is kicked and continue play once ball has travelled 13m.
4. Kickout taken from wrong place (not from scoring area):
Retake once but if reoccurs it is free in from where foul occurred
Cancel kick out and throw in the ball on the 20m line in front of the scoring
space
5. Line ball kick taken from wrong place:
Retake kick
Throw in ball 13m in from the side line
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6. Kicker crosses the line on to the pitch when taking sideline kick:
No action…play on
Throw in ball 13m in from the sideline
7. Free kick taken from the wrong position:
Retake kick from correct position
Throw in ball
8. Free kick taken from within 2 or 3 metres of correct position:
No action... play on
Throw in ball
9. Free kicked to colleague not 13m from the ball:
Free kick to opposition from where the ball was received
Free kick to opposition from where the foul occurred
10. Taking a 45m kick:
Off the ground from 45m line opposite where the ball crossed the end line in grades from under 15 upwards. In grades below players have option of taking it off the ground or from their hands
Off the ground from 45m line opposite where the ball crossed the end line
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11. Lifting the ball off the ground without putting foot to the ball:
No action as long as girl in standing position
Free to the opposition
12. Lifting the ball with the knees:
No action
Free to the opposition
13. Touching the ball on the ground with the hand while in a standing position:
No action as long as the player is in a standing position
Free to the opposition
14. Player on the ground playing the ball:
May play the ball away from herself and may score by doing so however player cannot pull the ball into her possession
A player who falls or is knocked to the ground while in possession of the ball
may fist or palm the ball away on the ground, and mayscore by so doing.
15. Shoulder to shoulder contact:
Free to opposition and red card if deliberate charge
No action…legal move
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16. Deliberate body contact:
Free, Yellow or Red card depending on offence
Depending on contact may be a Free, Noting, Yellow or Red card
17. Handpass:
Show striking action only in any direction
With a definite underhand striking action
18. Square ball (old rule):
Applies at all times
Only applies from free kick/45m free situation
19. Solo bouncing run where ball is not caught:
May use one or both hands to bounce the ball
May use one or both hands to bounce the ball
20. Commencement of play after injury stoppage:
Team in possession at stoppage retain possession and may not score direct from kick. Where no team had clear possession it is a throw in ball
Team in possession at stoppage retain possession and may not score direct
from free kick. Where on team had possession it is a throw in ball
21. Player shown first Yellow Card:
Player booked plus sin‐binned for 10 minutes playing time
Player booked only
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22. Inciting an affray:
Red card offence
Contributing to a melee – Red card infraction
23. Racist language/gestures:
Red card offence
Yellow card for threatening or using abusive or provocative language or
gestures to an opponent
24. Pulling an opponent or colleague’s hair:
Red card offence
No exact rule, presumably Rough (Yellow) or Dangerous (Red)
25. Award a throw ball for offence inside 13m line:
Throw ball on 13m line
Throw ball on 20m line
26. Goalkeeper replacement for penalty/injury:
Player replacing goal keeper has the option to have full goal keeper privileges if she wears a distinctive jersey.
No rule in book for this situation, however the goalkeeper shall wear a
distinctive coloured jersey
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27. Numbers necessary to commence and finish a game a 15‐a‐side game:
11 to start but teams may finish with less players or more if bring team up to 15 as the game progresses
13 to start but 15 by the start of the second half. In the event of failure to
comply the game shall continue
28. Cards
Yellow (Sin Bin) and Red Card Offences
Yellow Card, Black Card and Red Card Offences
Extra differences
(These do not affect actions of referee during the game)
Team sheets In either English or Irish In Irish
Extra Time 1 period only and possible 30m kicks
1 period only
Subs in extra time 5 allowed in each period 3 allowed
Size of ball Size 4 for under 14’s and upwards Size 5 for minors and upwards
Under 14 games duration
30 minute halves 20 mins halves
Senior inter‐county games duration
30 minute halves 35 minute halves
Size of pitch for underage games
Under 14 and upwards must use full sized pitch for 15‐a‐side games
Shortened pitch allowed for games up to under 15
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League points 3 for a win, 1 for a draw 2 for win, 1 for a draw
Panel size 30 players 25 players
Wearing support shorts
Compression shorts may be worn but must be shorter than playing shorts
No objections
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Quick Quiz
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Task Sheet
Mark Beside Each of the Following Offences if they are Red Card Offences (R), Yellow Card Offences
(Y), Non‐technical (NT) or Technical Fouls(T):
1 Persistent fouling
2 Picking the ball off the ground whilst not in a standing position
3 Stamping on an opponent or colleague
4 Hopping the ball more than once in succession after catching it
5 Deliberate pulling down or tripping by hand or foot
6 Kicking an opponent or colleague
7 Changing the ball from hand to hand more than once in succession
8 Pushing or holding an opponent
9 Striking or making a striking action towards an opponent or colleague with hand, fist, arm, elbow, head or knee
10 Biting an opponent or colleague
11 Handpassing the ball without a visible striking action
12 Pulling an opponent’s jersey
13 A Sliding tackle
14 Deliberate high tackle
15 The use of foul or improper language
16 Striking, threatening, using abusive language to or interfering with a match official
17 Kicking the ball with intent as an opposing player is about to pick it up
18 Deliberate sliding tackle
19 Diving on the ball as another player is picking it up
20 Feigning injury or diving to gain a free kick/penalty or to get opponent cautioned or expelled from game.
21 Bringing the ball into possession while on the ground
22 Using racist, sectarian or homophobic language or gestures towards an opponent, colleague, mentor, match official or spectator
23 Third player tackle, including body checking an opponent
24 Bringing the fist in contact with the body of an opponent for the purpose of dispossessing her of the ball
25 Threatening or abusive language or gestures towards an opponent or colleague
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My Notes
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ET
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FOR REFE