#Fist referee signal in volleyball manuals#

The R1 may also ask the R2 to use a discreet touch signal in front of the chest to indicate the blocking team did, indeed, make a contact and negate the four-hits violation. Other informal signals may also include head nods (yes and no), identifying back-row player violations (by arm diagonally across midsection or pointing to attack line), illegal hits out of the view of the first referee (palm up and slightly raise arm or two fingers indicating double) and down balls, especially on pancakes. To indicate a fourth contact without an intervening block, the R1 may ask the R2 during the pre-match discussion to use four fingers on the opposite shoulder.

Identifying possible back-row player violations (including the libero and all back-row players).

Informal signals include but are not limited to: During this discussion, preferably away from the court in a locker room, the officials will discuss particulars of their roles and specifically informal signals used by both referees. It is important that a good prematch conference is held between all officials, especially the first and second referee, before the match, when discussing informal signals. Here is where you can determine when you want the R2 to go big on an informal signal. However, the role of the second referee cannot be overlooked in assisting the first referee to administer the match. He or she makes the final decision concerning matters not specifically covered by the rules or where there is a discrepancy between referees and line judges. The first referee has final authority and maintains general supervisory control of the teams and other officials. There are times in a match, however, when informal signals need to be made more prominent, so the correct call can be made by the officiating team.

#Fist referee signal in volleyball manuals#

There are also several “informal” signals frequently used, especially by second referees to assist the first referee during the match, and are discussed in officials’ manuals for all three rule sets. Knowing when to use them and applying them correctly makes for a smooth match with few problems. Formal signals are exhibited “big” to communicate with all match participants and spectators, whereas discreet, informal signals are usually “little” and are used for communication between the officiating crew.Īll three rulesmaking bodies - NFHS, NCAA and USAV - have dedicated sections in the rulebook listing descriptions and pictorial examples of properly executed formal signals.

Precisely executed, established signals indicate the referees are competent and in control of the match.

Communication between first and second referees is essential in communicating decisions to players, coaches, assistant officials and spectators.