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The more experienced an official is with a good understanding of the game and how the rules are applied, seems to be indicative of his ability to effectively give warnings.

Warnings make the game flow, especially when given early in the game and the players and coaches heed them.

During my officiating career, the more experienced I became the more warnings I give to players and coaches, having a clearer understanding between – warnings and coaching.

Below are some thoughts IMHO on warnings. I wish there was a board to post on, for coaches, to get their feedback.

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Warnings!

Can a football game be officiated without giving players and coaches warnings? Not really. Warnings are an integral part of officiating.

An official is primarily looking to flag infractions that impact the play, compromises player safety or compromises game control – to deal with infractions that don’t affect these areas – a warning can be the appropriate decision.

Warnings are much more than just words. They’re meaningful, are helpful to players & coaches, should fit the situation and be conveyed in a timely and comprehensive manner. Warning a player about hooking the tight end off the line – that didn’t affect the play – and then follow up after a couple of downs, letting him know his technic is now within the rules. He knows you’re watching him and is well aware that it’s just not a random warning. Warnings set the stage, showing that the officials are keenly aware that flagging – just any infraction – is not effective officiating.

The crew of officials should address and confront all areas of the game – which could range from flagging an infraction or just giving a look (to a coach on the sideline) that conveys a message, that’s enough complaining coach. When a player commits an infraction that doesn’t warrant a penalty flag - he should be warned – so he doesn’t think the infraction has gone unnoticed.

Well-coached teams, instruct their players that anytime an official talks to them, they’re to report it to their coaching staff, which (for the official) provides a conduit for communicating with the team. Coaches are judging the official, not only on the infractions he flags but also on the warnings he gives. And, for that matter, any comment the official makes.

Players and coaches must have a feeling - if they don’t heed your warning - you will carrier through with a penalty. This in itself will prevent infractions and convey that the officials are in control of the game.

After talking to a player (giving a warning) at the end of a down, I’ve seen coaches replace the player, talk with him and then send him back in the game – the situation resolved. Or, they set him on the bench, again the situation resolved.

In a team’s huddle you can inform the captain to admonish his teammate – who has already been warned – knowing that the warning will be reported to the coach. With the coach knowing and not heeding your warning – the official has little choice then to penalize.

Some officials view anything more then a general warning (e.g.,) (a wing official tapping his leg indicating the scrimmage line to a wide receiver – a referee saying the ball’s gone so linemen can letup on their blocks) – as coaching. Officials shouldn’t coach, but there are many areas of the game that an official can warn – that isn’t coaching. As long as a team doesn’t gain an advantage or is put to a disadvantage – it’s appropriate to warn. Knowing when and how to warn is as much apart of the game as the rules and mechanics.