Running clock & thoughts from officials

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by chseagle

How easy is the running clock to institute?

For those that have been in a game with it, how often do you have to remind coaches &/or table of the running clock?

I'm asking to be prepared in case I am asked to institute it.

A running clock should be easy to institute. The timer now has less to do, which should make them happy. LOL The only issues that arise are:

(a) switching from running to non-running time, and vice-versa
(b) the timer forgetting what "mode" the contest is "in" and therefore stopping, not stopping, or not starting the clock when it should be

If (a), then you could use a series of invented signals to the timer as a method to ensure that you and s/he are on the same page. Express it in exactly that manner: that the signal (example coming) is just so that you're aware of what the timer will do. The fact that your signal might remind him of the status of the clock is just an added unannounced feature.

If (b), the best method to fix the clock's status is to just use your voice. And if you need to do this, does it really matter that a second or two ticked off, or didn't tick off, in a 45-point blowout?


Signals to use:

I work some game where the scoring must drop back to half if the point spread (anytime during the game) becomes either 15 or 20 points. This change has no effect on the timing rules, but it does create a new violation with it's own penalty. The other official(s) and I need to be aware of when this situation arises and when it vanishes.

The signal that I invented is this:

When a team must first drop back to half, my P(s) and I signal two palms stretched apart, much like the "not closely guarded" signal. This signal is meant to show that separation must exist, representing the losing team's defensive end line and the division line.

When a pressing situation is back on, the signal is pressing the palms together, much like football's "safety touch" signal, but only at chest height instead of above the head.

Signals you could use:

Similarly, you could use a small football-style winding the clock signal to signify running time; using the finger only, and slightly in front of your chest. When the losing team scores again to revert their deficit to under 45 points, use a signal such as palm out, chest high, and only a few inches in front of your body.