Retro Refs

[Bob M.]

REPLY: I think (and that's not always a good thing) that the arm bands on the H and L were used to signify which official (one per sideline) were to be used when an incoming substitute entered the game. Yes...at one time, all incoming subs needed to report to an official. If you look at the current Fed rule book, there is even a vestige of that old rule remaining. Look at the definition of 'substitute.' Wouldn't be at all surprised if that criteria of "...communicates with an official" is left over from that old rule.

[Texas Aggie]

Did they ever work 6 man in (d1) college? Anyone know when they went to 7?

[OverAndBack]

Originally Posted by Texas Aggie

Did they ever work 6 man in (d1) college? Anyone know when they went to 7?

There was a timeline in one of the NFHS handbooks recently. All mine are in storage at the moment, or I'd check. I think it lists when various rules changes and innovations occurred.