Hockey Referee Positioning 2 Man System
Being a hockey referee can be a tough job. Not only must you know the rules of the game inside and out, but you must also have excellent conditioning, be able to make split-second decisions, and have exceptional positioning on the ice. In this article, we will discuss the hockey referee positioning in the 2 man system, and what you need to know to become a great referee.
The Importance of Proper Hockey Referee Positioning
Proper hockey referee positioning is critical for two reasons: to ensure that you have the best possible view of the play, and to ensure that you are in a position to make the call quickly and accurately. In the 2 man system, there are two referees on the ice, and each has specific areas that they are responsible for.
The two referees are known as the lead referee and the trail referee. The lead referee skates ahead of the play and stays in the offensive zone, while the trail referee follows the play and stays in the defensive zone. This system ensures that each referee has the best possible view of the play in their respective zones.
Lead Referee Positioning
The lead referee is responsible for calling penalties in the offensive zone, and they should always be ahead of the play. This means that they need to be quick and have excellent skating skills, as they must keep up with the forwards and be in a position to see any infractions that occur.
The lead referee should position themselves at the top of the faceoff circles, facing the net. This gives them an unobstructed view of the play and ensures that they are in a position to make the call quickly and accurately.
Trail Referee Positioning
The trail referee, on the other hand, is responsible for calling penalties in the defensive zone. They should always be behind the play, and they should stay near the blue line to ensure that they have the best possible view of any infractions that occur.
The trail referee should position themselves near the blue line, facing the play. This gives them a clear view of the defensive zone and ensures that they are in a position to make the correct call.
Communication is Key
In the 2 man system, communication between the two referees is essential. Referees must work together to ensure that they are in the best possible position to make the correct call. This means that they need to communicate with each other constantly, both verbally and visually.
Verbal communication can be as simple as saying "I've got this" or "You take the next call." Visual communication includes hand signals, eye contact, and body language. Referees must be aware of each other's positions at all times and be ready to take over if necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper hockey referee positioning in the 2 man system is crucial for ensuring that the game is officiated correctly. Each referee has specific responsibilities, and they must work together to ensure that they are in the best possible position to make the right call. By communicating effectively and constantly, referees can make the game safer and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
