Hockey Referee Positioning 3 Man System
As a hockey referee, it is essential to understand the importance of positioning during a game. The 3 man system is one of the most commonly used systems for hockey referees. This system involves three referees who work together to ensure smooth gameplay and fair calls. In this article, we will discuss the basics of the 3 man system and the importance of proper positioning.
What is the 3 man system?
The 3 man system involves three referees, one in each zone of the rink. The lead referee is responsible for the zone where the puck is currently located. The two other referees are responsible for the other zones. The three referees work together to ensure that they have the best view of the game at all times.
The lead referee is responsible for making most of the calls in their zone, including goals and penalties. The other two referees are there to assist with any calls that may have been missed or to provide a different perspective on a situation.
Importance of Proper Positioning
Proper positioning is crucial in the 3 man system. A referee who is out of position may miss a critical moment in the game or make an incorrect call. Each referee needs to stay in their designated zone to ensure that they have the best view of the game. Additionally, each referee needs to be aware of their partner's position and be prepared to move to cover a different area of the rink.
A referee's positioning is also essential when making a call. The position of the referee can affect their view of the play, and a different position may provide a different perspective. For example, a referee who is behind the net may have a better view of the goal line than a referee who is at the blue line.
Positioning Tips
There are several tips that referees can use to improve their positioning and ensure that they are in the right place at the right time:
- Watch the puck: The lead referee needs to keep their eyes on the puck at all times to ensure that they are in the right position. This helps them anticipate any plays that may happen and ensures they are ready to make a call.
- Be aware of players: Referees need to be aware of where the players are on the ice and be prepared to move to avoid players and get a better view of the play.
- Move with the play: Referees need to move with the play to ensure that they are in the right position to make a call. This means anticipating where the play is going and positioning themselves accordingly.
- Communicate with your partners: Referees need to communicate with their partners to ensure that they are all in the right position and ready to make a call. This includes calling for help if they need assistance or asking for a different perspective on a play.
Conclusion
The 3 man system is an effective way for hockey referees to ensure that they are making accurate calls and providing a fair game for all players. Proper positioning is crucial in this system, and referees need to be aware of their position and their partner's position at all times. By following these tips and communicating with their partners, referees can provide a fair and exciting game for all players and fans.
