Referees and Forfeits

[Nevadaref]

Contests which are forfeited can put referees in an awkward situation. You need to know the basics before you step onto the floor for any "scrimmage" which may take place after a forfeit has been declared.

1. Insurance coverage -- what is the coverage for yourself and the participants? Know or find out if your state, league, etc. provides coverage. If not, I wouldn't officiate.

2. Compensation -- know what you are receiving for a forfeit and/or the action which replaces it, if anything. Inquire beforehand, if you must. Don't just expect financial compensation, there may not be any. Make certain that you will receive what you desire. If you are happy officiating for free, that is your choice, but I advise getting the information upfront.

3. Consequences -- what are the ramifications to YOU? Understand what the person who made the assignment expects you to do. Are you to stay and officiate unofficial action or are you to depart? There could well be a difference if the contest is from an outside assignor or handled internally by the school admin. What is expected of you could have an impact on future assignments from that person. If you don't know, ask! Pick up the phone and make a call before proceeding, if you must. Don't cost yourself several future games by mishandling one forfeited contest.

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by Nevadaref

Contests which are forfeited can put referees in an awkward situation. You need to know the basics before you step onto the floor for any "scrimmage" which may take place after a forfeit has been declared ... Insurance coverage ...

Agree. Forfeit is declared. Officials, coaches, and administrators agree to have a "scrimmage". Player accidentally gets seriously hurt in the scrimmage. Parents sue for negligence saying that the officials should have ended the game with the forfeit and that the scrimmage should never have been played, and thus, the serious injury should have never happened.

The plaintiff may not prevail, but the officials will still have to hire an attorney and defend themselves in a court of law. Lots of billable hours involved.

[RefBob]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Agree. Forfeit is declared. Officials, coaches, and administrators agree to have a "scrimmage". Player accidentally gets seriously hurt in the scrimmage. Parents sue for negligence saying that the officials should have ended the game with the forfeit and that the scrimmage should never have been played, and thus, the serious injury should have never happened.

The plaintiff may not prevail, but the officials will still have to hire an attorney and defend themselves in a court of law. Lots of billable hours involved.

Because of the above, our Association has clearly told us not to officiate these informal scrimmages as they are not official games under the auspices of the state school activities association. Therefore, not clear that we have any type of liability coverage.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by RefBob

Because of the above, our Association has clearly told us not to officiate these informal scrimmages as they are not official games under the auspices of the state school activities association. Therefore, not clear that we have any type of liability coverage.

I am pretty sure that my state has coverage for all games in and out of high school in the sports we are registered to work. So if something were to happen, you are covered for games that are not normal games. Now that might change based on the type of insurance you have. And there could be some basic coverage that you would just as if you are doing the same sport. I would check this out, but my understanding of my state insurance plan, which is not with the NF covers all levels of the sport.

Peace