1) CLOSING DATES

If you are not available on any match day it is good practice to inform the Referees' Secretary, even if you have not appeared on the fixture list.

Should you have to decline an appointment that you have received let the League know as soon as possible. 'Crying off' on a Friday evening when you have known you are unavailable for several days previously is just not acceptable and will have an effect on your future appointments.

2) CONFIRMATION

Referees must confirm the fixture with their Assistants (where appointed). Clubs are expected to ring Referees a few days in advance – Referees should extend this courtesy to their Assistants. Where possible joint travel should be arranged, especially if travelling long distances.

There are many younger Referees on the League that don’t have their own transport to and from matches. It is expected that those (especially the older, more experienced) Referees should offer to pick up these younger Referees, even if it means going out of their way. The extra mileage can be legitimately claimed from the League.

If a Club does not confirm a fixture, do not assume that the game has been called off. You can always contact the Referees’ Secretary for guidance, and report the fact on the Match Report Form.

3) ARRIVAL AT THE VENUE

On arrival at the venue, endeavour to find a person representing both teams (manager, secretary etc.) and introduce yourself to them. Advise them if there are neutral Assistant Referees, and that they need to be paid as well. Go to the teams even if they don't come to you, remember that some teams may have someone inexperienced in charge. They may even benefit from any advice you can offer them.

All Referees know to arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled kick-off time. However, in poor weather conditions extra time should be allowed for a Pitch Inspection.

Referees should carry out Pitch Inspections without the influence of members of either Club, they may have their own agenda for wanting a game played or called off.

If unsure by all means ask the advice of your Assistants. If still undecided remember that the safety of the players and your own safety are of paramount importance.

In frozen conditions it is important to consider whether the state of the pitch will improve during the morning (especially if the sun is out). In some circumstances it is reasonable to expect a Referee to allow until 10.50am for a game to start. However you should still be prepared to make the decision to postpone a game at this time if the pitch is still unplayable – even though this may prove unpopular.

A smart appearance is most important. Referees receive a fee and are therefore professional, it is very unprofessional to turn up with muddy boots or with socks whose white tops are now somewhat grey. Turning up actually wearing your refereeing kit is also very unprofessional and must not be done. Adequate changing facilities are provided at most venues.

4) THE REFEREEING ‘TEAM’

Acting as both Referees and Assistant referees we all know what is expected of us on the field of play, and the importance of co-operation; so no more will be said about that. There are though some other things to consider.

Regardless of whether or not an Assistant is more experienced or ‘senior’ than the Referee, the Referee is the person in charge. Assistants should do just that – offer assistance – but they should not run the show for the Referee. For example, cases have been known of 'senior' Assistants carrying out Pitch Inspections and informing Clubs of their decision, in the absence of the Match Referee. This is not acceptable, being both bad practice and extremely discourteous to the Referee.

Referees should fully brief their Assistants as to what they want from them on the pitch. The three officials should walk onto the pitch together, and leave together at half time and at full time. Do not openly congratulate each other on the pitch, this may invite criticism and dissent from players if they were dissatisfied with your performance.

5) MISCELLANEOUS

Always do what is required of you with regards to paperwork. Prompt attention to both the League’s and County's paperwork is important.

If cautions and dismissals are necessary on the Field of Play then carry out your duty. Shirking this responsibility because you are refereeing for marks or because completing the paperwork seems like too much of an effort is unacceptable. Remember, an issue that you ignore one week could become a major problem and maybe for a far less experienced Referee than yourself the following week.

The League offers a reliable support network for its match officials. It is there for your benefit, so if you have a problem, use it.

Treat all people as you would wish to be treated yourself. Be approachable and friendly, extend courtesy and good manners to Clubs, players and your fellow officials alike.

BEAR IN MIND AT ALL TIMES THAT WE ARE THE PROFESSIONALS HAVING TRAINED LONG AND HARD AND PASSED THE REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS. IT IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE THEREFORE THAT WE ACT PROFESSIONALY AT ALL TIMES TO CLUBS, PLAYERS, COACHING STAFF, MANAGERS AND TO OURSELVES.