Sideline control

[phansen]

This isn't by the rulebook, but it's what works for me. I don't say anything until I bump into somebody on the sideline because I find they don't listen anyway. When I bump into them I have their attention and usually their apology. I then tell them that's their 1st and only warning. I tell them where I need to operate and do my job and then I tell them if I bump into them again or they are in my line of sight on the field or sideline its a flag. On obvious pass plays and punts I warn them to give me some room and that usually works.

They feel I'm working with them rather than just a sideline enforcer looking to throw a flag, and that makes my job easier. Like I said, probably not by the book, but I haven't had to throw a flag yet