11/21/24
May 30, 2006
Secret Signals.: If you get bored watching England try to break down a defensive Paraguayan team, or lose interest during the classic Poland vs Ecuador match, you can always watch the hidden communications between the officials. Two weeks ago the Italian FA withdrew its original officials for the world cup, while investigations continue into rather different secrets. (Previous SpoFi : 1 , 2)
posted by Mr Bismarck to soccer at 07:20 AM - 9 comments
Absolutely fascinating link. I probably watch more live football than the rest of SpoFi put together but was only aware of the ball over the goal line and yellow/red card signals . Thanks Mr B.
posted by squealy at 10:19 AM on May 30, 2006
I used to ref when I was a teenager. It was an easy way to make some spare cash, and while I never reffed at that high a level, the sprinting towards the center on a score was something that we were taught... Now the clenched fist thing, that explains a lot.
posted by sauril at 10:27 AM on May 30, 2006
A buzzer in the sleeve? Brilliant! Nice post, Mr.B. Thanks.
posted by scully at 10:35 AM on May 30, 2006
I used to ref when I was a teenager. It was an easy way to make some spare cash, and while I never reffed at that high a level, the sprinting towards the center on a score was something that we were taught... I was in the same boat as sauril, and I only knew about the clenched fist thing when I was forced to ref a league of players older than myself (I was 17, they were 18 and the regular ref was ill). One of the linesman (a much older guy, who used to ref but couldn't because of his knees), told me about it just before the game, except that we decided he'd make the decision since he'd officiated this league before. We called it "stiff" for a while at the start of the game, and then he gave me the signal to loosen up. As a result of this game, I had a LOT more respect for linesmen and the work they do for the refs.
posted by grum@work at 10:52 AM on May 30, 2006
Yes, this is a GREAT POST, Mr. B!!! I still am a very active (basketball) official who also happens to do research on sport officials in my graduate studies. It's always great to get these kinds of insights. I also applaud the "different breed" of sports fan that thrives here on SpoFi who actually tries to be knowledgeable about the rules and officiating in general ... if there were only more like y'all out in the world today!!! Again, great post!
posted by Spitztengle at 11:01 AM on May 30, 2006
I referee at a semi-pro level and this stuff is very common . Its something you pick up as you move into more "serious" games . The eye to eye contact with the ref over throw ins often gets confused with waiting for the ref to tell you , but like the article said its just to make sure your both right .
posted by nols at 04:13 PM on May 30, 2006
I agree with the others, Mr. Bismark: terrific link. I've noticed many of the signals mentioned but wasn't sure of the meaning behind them. Fascinating.
posted by Texan_lost_in_NY at 10:15 PM on May 30, 2006
well done, Mr B. Good warm-up for the World Cup!
posted by worldcup2002 at 01:29 AM on May 31, 2006
Great post, Mr Bismarck!