[Mike Simonds]

We use these when working at R and U:

Closed fist held shoulder height and slightly away from body: I've counted 11 players on offense.

Holding open hands in front of chest: I've counted 10 or less players on offense.

One hand on top of head: I've counted 12 or more players on offense. Then the referee and I will both nod our heads, then when we see each other reach for our flags, we throw our flags at the same time (or at least try to, LOL).

Rolling fists in front of chest: The offensive team is going for it (not lining up in scrimmage kick formation) on 4th down or going for 2 points on the try.

Making a triangle with our thumbs and fingers and holding this above our heads: The offensive team is going to attempt a field goal or extra point. As the umpire I will also try to make eye contact with the LJ (5 man crew) or the BJ, SJ and FJ while making this signal.

Then of course there are the ready for play signals I use to help remind the Referee what is happening with the clock on the next play: rolling my index finger in a small circle while telling him the next down to let him know that the clock starts on the ready for play whistle. Or making a snapping gesture with my hand to let him know that the clock will start on the snap.

Would love to hear about what else is used out there. In our state, they give us a list of required supplemental signals to be used for the play-offs so we decided just to start using these for the regular season as well.

Almost forgot, we also like to cross our arms across our chests on 4th down to remind us that the clock will stop at the end of the next play.

[Edited by Mike Simonds on May 9th, 2004 at 10:53 PM]