How to deal with Offensive or Abusive Language

Player language, including gestures and other forms of nonverbal communication, can take many

forms:

·         passing information along to teammates or urging special efforts during play –

         this is completely acceptable. Referee action: no action needed.

·         momentary emotional outburst – borderline acceptable, perhaps a trifling offense

        only. Referee action: a stern look or verbal admonishment.

·         dissent or unsporting behavior – unacceptable misconduct. Referee action:

         caution and display yellow card.

·         offensive, insulting or abusive language – more serious misconduct. Referee

         action: send off and display red card.

The referee must intelligently apply common sense, feel for the spirit of the game, and

knowledge of the way in which player language can affect management of the match in order to

distinguish effectively among these forms. Regardless of age or competitive level, players become excited as their personal or team fortunes rise or fall, and it is not uncommon for language to be used in the heat of the moment. Such outbursts, while possibly vivid, are typically brief, undirected, and often quickly regretted. The referee must understand the complex emotions of players in relation to the match and discount appropriately language which does no lasting harm to those who might have heard or seen the outburst. Of course, the player might well be warned in various ways (a brief word, direct eye contact, etc.) regarding his behavior.

The SJSL Referee Committee requests that, if you are an official with a very low threshold for offensive language, you should use your pre-game briefing to the players as an opportunity to “define” what will not be tolerated.  Once stated, be prepared to uphold your position or lose the respect of the players and, thus, game control.