NFHS referee with a microphone

[CruiseMan]

Originally Posted by ljudge

A good example (although not unusual) is an illegal formation. I take the extra step as to WHY it's an illegal formation. Something like...

"There was an illegal formation by the offense. There were only 6 men on the line of scrimmage. 5-yard penalty from the previous line of scrimmage, replay second down."

I really, really like R's that do this. I take this even a step further. Especially with this rule as I don't think many fans know it.

I know its a tad wordy, but I speak quickly... my spiel on the same foul

"Illegal procedure. Offense. Failed to meet the requirement of having seven men on the line. 5 yard penalty from the previous spot. Repeat 2nd down."

If you can explain the rule quickly and efficiently, why not. Even in games, where I'm not mic'd, I've noticed smaller crowds get very quiet so they can hear what I have to say.

[voiceoflg]

One other thing to remember. Many stadiums (stadia?) that use a ref's mic splits the feed for us radio guys. So what is said is also on the radio. It makes for a better broadcast, especially when the referee clarifies for the listener what the broadcaster muddied up.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by CruiseMan

I really, really like R's that do this. I take this even a step further. Especially with this rule as I don't think many fans know it.

I know its a tad wordy, but I speak quickly... my spiel on the same foul

"Illegal procedure. Offense. Failed to meet the requirement of having seven men on the line. 5 yard penalty from the previous spot. Repeat 2nd down."

If you can explain the rule quickly and efficiently, why not. Even in games, where I'm not mic'd, I've noticed smaller crowds get very quiet so they can hear what I have to say.

It is NOT "illegal procedure." It's "illegal formation." Use the right phrases: False start, illegal snap, illegal formation, etc.

Your explanation is also TOO wordy, IMO.

"Illegal formation. Offense. Six men on the line of scrimmage. Five yard penalty from the previous spot. Repeat second down."

Are the words "Illegal procedure" still on the signal chart? In the rule book?

(I'm on vacation and my nearest books are hundreds of miles away.)

--Rich

[Theisey]

Originally Posted by Rich Fronheiser

Are the words "Illegal procedure" still on the signal chart? In the rule book?
--Rich

Absolutely not. They were removed in 2005.
The terminology should no longer be used in calling fouls or reporting fouls.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Theisey

Absolutely not. They were removed in 2005.
The terminology should no longer be used in calling fouls or reporting fouls.

I strongly suspected so. Thanks.

It drives me absolutely nuts when I hear an official use the phrase. Thanks for the reply.