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US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
November 17, 2005
Annual Required NCAA/COC Clinic
The first NCAA/COC Officials Rules Clinic for 2006 will be held Friday Dec. 9, 2005 (2:30-4:30 p.m.). at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront in Room A/B in conjunction with the IMLCA Coaches Clinic being held there that weekend. Unlike past years, there will be no clinic offered in Orlando during December. As in past years, there will be a NCAA/COC Officials Rules Clinic offered during the 2006 US Lacrosse National Convention at the Philadelphia Marriott/Convention Center on Saturday Jan. 14, 2006 from 9 a.m. to Noon. Room TBA.
Information regarding regional clinics throughout the country will be distributed as soon as it is available.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
November 8, 2005
Extension of Agreement between COC and USILA
Dear Members:
We are writing to advise you that the US Lacrosse Men's Division College Officials Committee (the "COC") and the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (the "USILA") have reached agreement regarding a four year extension of the Agreement dated January 11, 2004 between the COC and the USILA. The term of this Agreement ended on June 30, 2005, and the COC Executive Board has been working closely with USILA leadership to finalize the terms of a four year extension of that agreement.
The four year extension of the Agreement between the COC and the USILA includes provisions relating to the continued expansion of the observer's program, the cooperative refinement of the rating system utilized by coaches to evaluate officials, a renewed emphasis on the joint recruitment of new officials by the COC and the USILA and a fee agreement for Division I, II and III games during the four year term of the Agreement. Additional details regarding the terms of the four year extension of the COC/USILA Agreement will be forthcoming shortly, including specific details with respect to the fee agreement.
The Agreement that was signed by the COC and the USILA in January, 2004 represented the beginning of a partnership relationship between the two organizations that had as its objective the provision by the COC of the highest quality officiating services for USILA member institutions. The COC Executive Board believes that the partnership relationship between the COC and the USILA during the past two years has been very successful. The four year extension of the term of that Agreement will provide the COC and the USILA with the opportunity to continue to strengthen and enhance their overall relationship in furtherance of the shared goal of providing the highest quality officiating services to USILA member institutions at all times.
As you may be aware, the ECAC has recently taken actions to attempt to establish an ECAC lacrosse official's bureau, in direct competition with the USILA. Although the ECAC appears to have represented to a number of institutions that the ECAC has the ability to provide officials, in fact there have been no discussions whatsoever between the COC and the ECAC regarding the provision by COC officials of officiating services through the ECAC. The COC Executive Board is unanimously opposed to that concept because it is not in the best interests of COC officials. In fact, the only basis upon which the ECAC could attempt to recruit institutions to engage the ECAC rather than the USILA to provide lacrosse officiating services would be that the cost to these institutions for officiating services would be less than the cost of obtaining officials through the existing arrangement between the COC and the USILA, thereby threatening the substantial progress that the COC has made during the past few years in relation to the establishment of fair and reasonable game fees, travel and per diem reimbursement amounts.
Accordingly, the COC Executive Board urges all COC member officials to resist any attempt by the ECAC to solicit the COC membership as part of the ECAC's attempt to establish a lacrosse officiating bureau in direct competition with the USILA. The COC Executive Board enjoys a very positive working relationship with the USILA, and the extension of the Agreement between the COC and the USILA for an additional four years is designed to strengthen further that relationship. As we are all aware, the strength of the COC is in the solidarity of its membership. The current actions being taken by the ECAC are not in the best interests of the sport of lacrosse, and they are certainly not in the best interests of COC officials.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact any member of the COC Executive Board.
Committee Executive Board
John Hill, President
J. D. Doyle
Eric Evans
Steve Miller
Kevin O’Leary
Butch West
Hans Wittelsberger
Steve Hinchey, President, US Lacrosse Men’s Officials Council
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
October 11, 2005
I. COC/USILA Fee Negotiation Update from John Hill, COC President:
In my last communication with the COC membership I mentioned the ongoing fee/travel reimbursement negotiations with the USILA Executive Board. Our most recent two-year agreement between the USILA and the COC expired in July, 2005, and I wanted to keep our membership abreast of the latest developments in the negotiations.
Starting in the spring of 2005 the COC Board has submitted several proposals to the USILA and they, in turn, have responded to each of them. While the COC Board and the USILA are in agreement over several issues and close to agreement on others, several points of key importance to our members remain unresolved. Without going into too much detail about these unresolved issues, let me say that they involve compensating officials fairly for time spent traveling to games a significant distance from home.
Members of our Executive Board will be meeting with the USILA Executive Board to try and solve the differences. The COC Executive Board appreciates the input and support it has received these past few months from the COC membership.
II. Annual Awards
Nominations for the annual Julian and Ulman awards should be sent to Butch West at jwest@westcostello.com. Please include an explanatory statement. Here is the criteria for the awards:
The Frenchy Julian Award recipient shall be an active or past member of the COC, or prior to the formation of the COC an intercollegiate lacrosse official, who has contributed to the continued success of the COC and, when applicable, has made a meaningful contribution to the game of lacrosse.
The Bernie Ulman Award recipient shall be an individual who has contributed to the continued success of intercollegiate lacrosse officiating and when applicable has made a meaningful contribution to the game of lacrosse.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
September 28, 2005
From John Hill, COC President:
I hope this summer was enjoyable to all of you. The COC E-Board has been busy during the summer with the following items:
- DAA evaluation and satisfaction survey
- Bargaining session with the USILA over fees for next year and beyond
- NAA satisfaction survey
- USL Membership Committee for new members
- Compiling all the data from the Observer's program under the guidance of Bob Curcio
I would like to thank all of you that took the short amount of time to fill out the DAA satisfaction survey. Around 50% of the COC membership responded. The results were shared with the DAAs that have a concentration in USILA games. Negative comments and COC membership concerns were shared with the appropriate DAA so that they were aware of what their officials were dealing with. All DAA's are now aware of the issues that are important to their members.
The COC E-Board has sent several proposals to the USILA in order to get a contract extension so that we can go into the 2006 season in a smooth manner. At the time of this writing we have received another counter proposal. On Thursday (9/29) the COC E-Board is having another conference call regarding the most recent USILA proposal. Hopefully we can get this resolved during the month of October. I will send out a notification to the membership when it is completed with the new fees package.
NAA Satisfaction survey. I contacted all of the League Assigning Authorities (LAA's) who worked with Bob Duggan, National Assigning Authority (NAA). I received nothing but good overall reports on Bob's performance. Therefore, according the COC agreement, Bob Duggan was appointed for another 2-year term.
USL Membership Committee. I have been in contact with Carrie Geldart to help her into her new position of Membership Marketing Coordinator. Hopefully all of the names in the data base will be correct and we will have a smooth transition from last year.
Observers Program. This completed the 2nd year of the USILA sponsored Observers Program. Large numbers of officials were evaluated during games, and lists were generated by Warren Kimber, the DAA's, and Bob Curcio, the Director of the Observers Program. These officials were given a closer look to see if their schedule reflected their ability. The exact number of officials observed will be available at the National Convention in January 2006.
- John Hill
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
September 19, 2005
From Walt Munze, US Lacrosse Rules Interpreter:
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Rules Committee encourages all NCAA institutions to use the following experimental rule:
1. When possession is gained, the team with the ball has 30 seconds to advance the ball into the attack area. The attack area for the experimental rule is the area from the restraining line to the endline and from sideline to sideline. This new attack area eliminates the side alleys and measures 35 yards by 60 yards.
2. Once the attacking team advances the ball into the new attack area, they must keep the ball inside the attack area.
3. Both teams may substitute during this 30-second period.
The following are several situations and approved rulings that the committee anticipates:
Situation 1: Team A gains possession of the ball. How long do they have to enter the attack area?
Ruling: Team A has 30 seconds to get the ball into the new attack area.
Situation 2: Team A gains possession and takes the ball into the attack area in 20 seconds. Can Team B substitute?
Ruling: Yes. Both teams have a full 30 seconds to substitute even if the team with possession gets the ball into the new attack area in less than 30 seconds.
Situation 3:Team A has a player leaving the field for the substitution box and the 30-second beeper goes off. How is this handled?
Ruling: The official blows the whistle and the ball is awarded to Team B at the spot Team A possessed it when the beeper went off.
Situation 4: As Team A is clearing the ball they mishandle the ball, which falls to the ground. Team A immediately regains possession of the ball.
Ruling: The count continues and Team A has the remainder of the 30 seconds to get the ball into the new attack area.
Situation 5: As Team A is clearing the ball they mishandle the ball and Team B gains possession of the ball.
Ruling: When they gain possession, Team B has 30 seconds to get the ball into their attack area.
Situation 6: Team A’s last substitute has cleared the sideline and entered the field as the 30-second beeper goes off.
Ruling: No penalty. Substitutes must be on the field within 30 seconds but they don’t have to be physically inside the new attack area.
Situation 7: Team A has the ball in the new attack area and the 30-second time has elapsed. Can either team substitute at the other end of the field?
Ruling: No. Once the 30-second time limit has elapsed, substitutes are not allowed until the ball changes possession.
From David Seidman, US Lacrosse Coordinator of Training and Mechanics:
The experimental 30-second clear rule replaces last year's 20-second clear, and 10-second offensive counts. The team in possession has 30 seconds to advance the ball inside the attack area, sideline to sideline. All substitutions must be complete within this time. Once the ball is brought into the attack area, the offensive team must keep it in until possession changes. When the experimental rule is in effect, use the following mechanic:
When a team first gains possession of the ball, the Trail shall pump his arm and start his 20-second timer. The Trail should advance up the field with or slightly behind the ball as before. Once Trails timer goes off, Trail shall begin a verbal and visual 10-second count. By the count of ten, the attacking team shall have the ball in the attack area (sideline to sideline for the purposes of the experimental rule), and all substitutions shall be complete.
Continue the count to the full 10 seconds beyond the timer even if the team enters the attack area earlier, as teams may continue to substitute until the 30 seconds is up.
While the experimental rule is being used, the Center official shall be primarily responsible for insuring that the attacking team enters and remains in the attack area until Trail is out of the substitution box and in his normal settled possession. Center does not need to begin a 10-second count when the ball crosses the centerline, as the experimental rule eliminates both the 20-second clear and the 10-second offensive count. Center should signal when the ball enters the attack area by raising his arm in the air, letting Trail know that the ball is in.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
August 29, 2005
1. MDIA NAA Bob Duggan Reappointed for Two-Year Term
As per the Oct. 2004 Agreement between the MDIA (Men's Division Intercollegiate Associates) and the MDOC (Men's Division Officials Council), an annual review of the National Assigning Authority (NAA) was conducted by the Collegiate Officials Committee (COC). After examining his 14 areas of duty in the Agreement, the COC has reappointed Bob Duggan for a two-year term.
The Men’s Intercollegiate Associates (MDIA) and the Collegiate Officials Committee (COC) have reached an agreement to use The Arbiter software for all game assignments. The software will also enable officials to enter evaluations of crew mates for each game.
NOTE: This agreement does NOT include the USILA contract with the COC. That decision will be announced when an agreement is reached.
2. The annual review of the District Assigning Authorities has been completed and the COC Board will be sharing the results of those surveys with each individual DAA.
3. The contract between the USILA and the COC stipulates that the District Assigning Director (Warren Kimber) will be subject to an annual performance review and that review is currently underway by the COC.
4. E-mail change for Jim Shaw, District 7: Home email is now stl_lax_ref@yahoo.com (It was vandjshaw@aol.com)
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
June 30, 2005
NCAA Rules Suggestions
US Lacrosse Rules Interpreter Walt Munze has requested that all rules changes suggestions for the 2006 rulebook be sent directly to him as soon as possible, e-mail aalaxCamp @aol.com.
According to the USILA/COC and USLIA/MDOC Agreements, "Each District Assignor/Conference Assignor shall serve a one year-term and shall be subject to a performance review and reappointment each year based on the results of such performance review." That performance review has been sent to each COC member in the form of a survey to be completed by July 15 at the latest. The survey is district-appropriate in that certain districts have received a survey for their DAA (USILA) and others have received a survey for their CAA (USLIA). If you did not receive a survey via e-mail, please contact Maggie Goldstein at US Lacrosse: mgoldstein@uslacrosse.org.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
April 15, 2005
Letter from Becky Boyle
To All the Guys:
It’s hard to know where to begin, but I wanted to let each of you know how very lucky Scott was to be a part of such a great group of men. He absolutely loved the time that he spent with all of you and thrived on the camaraderie of the sport that you shared.
We have laughed together over the years as Scott always shared stories of games and road trips. I always looked forward to that first game in February because I knew he was so happy out there (and I loved to watch him in his element!).
He was so passionate about the young officials that were coming up in the association and was so happy to see you succeed.
He had a great career and I don’t have one regret about the time he spent on the field – officiating was a huge part of a very full life and I know that he enjoyed every minute of it.
Keep Scott in your memories when you go out there – and when you have a tough call, just know that somehow he will be standing nearby selling it for you.
There are so many people I need to thank personally and one day I will do that, but for now just know that you all meant the world to him and he was blessed to be included in your lives.
Thanks for being there.
Love,
Becky
MDIA Championship Officials
The following twenty-five officials have been chosen to attend the MDIA Championships in Blaine, MN this year. Sixteen officials were nominated based on the number of teams from their conference who participated in the 2004 Championships. Eight other officials were selected based on the increase in the number of teams attending the event this year. The other official was selected at large. The officials are listed in alphabetical order followed by their league in parentheses:
Steve Adamick (WCLL)
Joe Adams (PCLL)
Eric Amtsberg (RMLC)
James Bach (PNCLL)
Don Balch (SELC)
Chris Brescia (GRLC)
Paul Cicio (SELC)
Joe Cronin (RMLC)
Matt Dempsey (UMLL)
Jeff Dolan (UMLL)
Tarik Ergin (WCLL)
Hank Friedman (RMLC)
Dana Friend (CCLA)
Marty Gaffney (PNCLL)
Tom Jenk (LSA)
Bill Johansen (RMLC)
Hank Molloy (WCLL)
Mark Moore (SELC)
Juarez Newsome (WCLL)
Rob Quinn (CCLA)
Garry Rasch (PNCLL)
Wally Schaefer (GRLC)
Greg Simon (WCLL)
Brad Scibak (UMLL)
Chip Sitomer (LSA)
New Contact Information
Bob Waggoner’s new mobile phone number: 419.461.1271
The following information was included in an e-mail that was distributed earlier in the week, but may not have reached all officials. It is included here again. Our apologies if there is any duplication.
District III Governor
The Executive Board for US Lacrosse Men's Division Officials' Council announces the election of Robert 'Buzz' Lynn of New Jersey as Governor for District III, to complete the term of Jim Carroll. Buzz was elected in a special election held among District III MDOC members. Congratulations to Buzz Lynn and the members of District III who participated in the election. Please support Buzz as begins his new adventure with the Men’s Division Officials’ Council
Officials needed for Charity Tournament
Officials are needed for a charity tournament sponsored by South Jersey Lacrosse Club on Sunday, April 24th, at Seneca High School near Medford, N.J. This tournament will benefit Amanda Hoeland, daughter of official Tom Hoeland. Amanda, age 7, suffers from 18th Chromosome Deletion, a condition which leaves her unable to walk, talk, or do most things normal children can do. Officials will serve on a volunteer basis. All proceeds of the tournament will benefit Amanda.
The tournament will run on 6 fields from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with players up to the U-15 level. Officials of any experience level are welcomed. We'd love to have your help- and you'll be helping on of our own! Please contact Buzz Lynn at relynn@comcast.net, or David Seidman at davidseidman@mac.com ASAP. We will reply with more information about the location and available time slots.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS - NEWS
April 4, 2005
To: US Lacrosse Men’s Officials
From: US Lacrosse
It is with sincere sadness that we inform you of the passing of referee Scott Boyle who died during a game between Navy and Georgetown on Saturday afternoon.
Scott was one of the top officials in the men’s game and was remembered by USILA District 4 Assignor Charlie Libby. "Scott always liked doing the top games. Everybody liked him and he mentored the young officials as his career advanced. He loved the game and was a terrific, hard-working official. Scott’s passing is a huge loss to the lacrosse community and a terrible loss to me personally."
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
March 21, 2005
From Warren Kimber, National Coordinator of Officials:
During the first three weeks of the 2005 season observing a dozen or more games I have noticed several things that deserve our attention in improving how you officiate games. On the face off, the official putting the ball in play should stand right next to the face off player looking down over the placement of the ball and the sticks. When he tells the players to be set he, too, should be set with one hand pointing at the ball and the other up in the air with the whistle in his mouth. The blowing of the whistle should vary ever so slightly in its cadence; we are currently inconsistent in this mechanic.
Numerous hits to the head with crosses have gone uncalled. I have seen a number of head to head hits that have gone uncalled. These are extremely dangerous and must be called. Several of those I have seen should have, in fact, been multiple-minute penalties. I have also seen an extensive number of cross check holds and cross checks that have gone uncalled. Each year we take great care to emphasize both of those penalties and for some unknown reason the calls aren't made. In preparation for this season we told you we anticipated this would be one of the most competitive ever. It is certainly starting out that way. You have to do what we ask of you and you have to do it to the very best of your ability each time out. Thank you for your attention to this.
From Chuck Winter, Sec.-Rules Editor, NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Rules Committee:
Attached are several approved rulings to Rule 4-19-e, which is on Page 48 of the 2005 NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Rules Book.
The major point to understand is that a goalkeeper who is out of the crease and his equipment becomes broken or dislodged is considered the same as a field player and subject to a technical foul if he participates in the play. Officials should use the same play-on technique that is used for any player participating in the scrimmage area without proper equipment.
Rule 4-19-e: During the course of play if a goalkeeper's stick becomes broken or any other required equipment becomes broken or dislodged while he is in the crease, play shall be suspended immediately.
Approved Ruling 1: During the course of play if a goalkeeper's stick becomes broken or any other required equipment becomes broken or dislodged while he is out of the crease, officials should use the same technique that is used for any player participating in the scrimmage area without proper equipment.
Approved Ruling 2:
SITUATION: The goalkeeper’s cross becomes broken while the goalkeeper is within his goal crease. Should play be suspended?
RULING: Yes, and award the ball outside the defensive/attack area. If the ball is loose, award by alternate possession.
Approved Ruling 3:
SITUATION: The goalkeeper's throat protector becomes broken and falls down below his chest while he is within the goal crease. Should play be suspended?
RULING: Yes, and award the ball outside of the defensive/attack area. If the ball is loose, award by alternate possession.
Approved Ruling 4:
SITUATION: The goalkeeper (B1) is out of the goal crease and fighting to get possession of a loose ball as one glove falls off. The goalie continues to pursue the loose ball.
RULING: Technical foul against B1, award the ball to A1 outside the attack area.
Approved Ruling 5:
SITUATION: The goalkeeper (B1) is out of the crease area fighting for a loose ball and the shaft of his stick breaks. He drops his stick and returns to his crease to defend. a) The ball is loose on the ground as the goalkeeper returns into the crease in order to defend without his equipment; and b) A1 has possession of the ball and is moving to the crease as B1 goalkeeper returns into the crease in order to defend without his equipment.
RULING: a) Technical foul, loose ball. Award the ball to A1 outside the attack area. b) Technical foul on B1 goalkeeper. B1 goalkeeper serves 30 second penalty.
Approved Ruling 6:
SITUATION: A1 takes a hard shot on a cold day from close to the crease. The shot deflects off goalkeeper’s B1 stick, breaking the head and deflecting into the goal.
RULING: Legal goal.
Approved Ruling 7:
SITUATION: A1 takes a hard shot on a cold day from close to the crease. The goalkeeper B1 is outside the crease and the follow-through from A1’s shot breaks the head of B1’s stick before it enters the goal.
RULING: Legal goal.
Reminder on World Games Referee Tryouts: Resumes for officials wishing to try out must be received by April 15, 2005 to Al Blau aballlax@optonline.net.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
March 10, 2005
NCAA Men's Lacrosse Rules Committee — Corrections to 2005 Book
Rule 1-9. Change to: "…marked with a contrasting color 4"x 4" square and shall be designated as the center."
Rule 1-21. Note. Delete the following sentence: "Otherwise, the official shall delay the whistle but not drop the flag in the same manner as set forth in 7-8." This Note will now align better with Rule 4-27 A.R. 113 which should be changed to: "A defensive player with the other team in possession, or any player during a loose ball, loses required equipment in a scrimmage area and continues to participate in the play while that equipment is missing. Ruling: Technical foul See also Rule 4-19-e as pertaining to the goalie."
Rule 2-6. Delete "A fourth official may be used."
Rule 4-3. Add Note 4: "In the event of a flag-down that creates an all-even situation at the conclusion of any period, the next period will begin with a faceoff."
Rule 4-5, AR 26. Clarification. "Thus, a hold by defensive team B while the ball is in flight between A1 and A2 is a loose-ball technical foul, a play-on."
Rule 4-6-b. To align better with new rule 4-6-b-4, change to: "Loose ball: When a loose ball touches a boundary line, the ground or any object outside a boundary line, or when a shot crosses the plane of the endline or the sideline (when determining which player is closest only), and the following rules apply…"
Rule 4-6-d (2). Delete
Rule 4-6, ARs 30, 31. Delete.
Rule 4-11. Delete.
Rule 4-14. Change the title to: "Advancing the Ball Beyond the Midline."
Rule 4-15, AR 71. Change the Ruling to: "Team A has entered the attack area and may pass the ball out of the attack area to anywhere on the field, but a ten-second count commences as soon as A3 gains possession."
Rule 4-20-C, AR 100. Change 10-second counts here to 20-second counts.
Rule 4-23-c. Change to: "Except ….there may be no regular substitution (e.g. horn) when play is suspended as a result of an equipment (e.g. chin strap) adjustment."
Rule 4-24-f. Change to: "Special substitution may take place while play is suspended."
Rule 4-24-d, AR 108. Change to: "Ruling: Silent play-on with an official’s arm in the air unless A1 is involved, technical foul."
Rule 6-3, AR 3. Change to: A1 has ball in his attack area. B2 checks A2 illegally, causing A2 to enter the crease. Is this a slow whistle? Ruling: No. Whistle is blown immediately when A2 is in the crease. Foul by B2 and B2 serves penalty time.
Rule 6-6-s. Delete.
Rule 6-6-u. Change to: "Failure to advance the ball beyond the midfield line in 20 seconds or into the attack area in 10 seconds."
Rule 6-11, AR 48. Change first sentence to: Same situation as in AR 47.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
March 1, 2005
COC Mechanics Update and Reminders
After several pre-season scrimmages, it is quite apparent that the new rules and mechanics require an adjustment period for successful implementation. The new mechanics aren’t difficult, but they do call for practice.
We’re off to a good start with the new face-off rule and mechanics. Remember that NO part of a face-off man’s body or equipment, including any part of his gloves, may touch the center-line. Make sure that you don’t move after the "set" call. Call the violations early, and the players will fall into line.
The twenty-second clearing rule will make our job easier, once the mechanics become second nature. A few points have come up during scrimmages that are worth mentioning here.
Trail should remember to pump his arm when he starts his timer. If the goalie makes a save and gains possession in his crease, the arm pump will be the "one" count for the goalie’s four-seconds. Trail should then pick up the four-second visual count at "two."
Officials should be ready to start the timer after a face-off, if first possession is gained in a team’s defensive half. The face-off official may have to be the one to do this if he becomes the Trail after the face-off.
When the ball clears the center-line, the Center official will raise his arm over his head, then point toward the offensive half of the field to signal to Trail that the ball has been cleared. If a clearing player is carrying the ball, both feet must be over the line to stop the clearing count. In this case, the "clear" point will serve as the "one" count for the ten-second offensive count. Center should then pick up the ten-second visual count at "two."
Any play-on against the riding team during a clear will result in a reset of the timer upon possession by the clearing team. Trail should turn off his timer immediately on any play-on, then turn it back on with a "RESET" signal (if the play-on foul is against the riding team, and the clearing team recovers the ball) or leave it off (if the play-on foul is against the clearing team, and the riding team recovers the ball) as needed. If play is stopped after the play-on, restart your timer upon restarting play if the clearing team is awarded the ball in their defensive half.
All three officials should be alert to potential time-outs in the offensive goal area. Center should be especially careful about his in-the-box signal to Trail, who will probably be the one to grant the time-out in most situations. Center should be alert to a count-stopping in-the-box signal from Lead, but don’t relay that signal to Trail if a loose ball enters the goal area to stop the count, as doing so could confuse the Trail into granting a time-out on a loose ball.
Trail should focus on Center’s count in potential time-out situations. If he can see a count, the ball is not in the box. A raised arm while a team has possession means that the ball is in the box. A raised arm on a loose ball is most likely a play-on.
Remember to give coaches the benefit of the doubt in situations where his player runs through the goal area quickly as the coach requests the time-out. If the player was in the goal area as the coach requested the time-out, grant the time-out. Don’t take the ball away from a team because the player in possession was out of the box by the time the whistle was blown.
Keep up the good work on face-offs. Remember to call the violations. And please continue to contact Dave Seidman with your mechanics comments and suggestions.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
February 25, 2005
World Games Officials Tryouts
Try-outs for the 2006 Men's World Games will be held at UMBC from June 13 - 16. The games will be held in London, Canada, July 13-22, 2006. Any COC member can apply by sending his resume to: Al Blau 16 Griffith Lane Huntington, NY 11743 or e-mail: aballlax@optonline.net.
Resumes are due no later than April 15, 2005 and those selected to participate will be notified by May 15, 2005. Please note: Any official who has previously worked in these games is ineligible for these tryouts.
NCAA/COC Clinic Cards
All regional NCAA/COC Clinics have been completed. A reminder to those conducting those clinics to forward the NCAA cards to Eric Evans, 266 Banning Rd., Putney, VT 05346
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS
February 1, 2005
MDOC-COC Proficiency Test - Now Online!
Log in now to take this year's test! Each year Men’s Division Officials Council College Officials Committee (MDOC-COC) officials complete a rules proficiency test as part of their commitment to quality for collegiate lacrosse officiating. For more information about the test or to print out the test questions please click here. Good Luck!
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
January 4, 2005
NCAA/NFHS Rule Differences
Rule differences for 2005 between college (NCAA) and high-school (NFHS) as compiled by Eric Evans, COC Secretary and approved by US Lacrosse Rules Interpreter Walt Munze and NFHS Lacrosse Rules Committee Chair Ron Belinko.
|
NCAA |
RULE/SITUATION |
FEDERATION |
| 15 minutes |
Game Time |
12 minutes |
| No mention |
Goal Differential |
2nd half, run clock >10 goals |
| 2 per half in attack area; anywhere dead ball |
Time Outs |
2 per half anywhere on field; anywhere dead ball |
| There are two |
Releasable Unsportsmanlike Penalty |
There are three |
| No mention |
Harsh Weather |
Referee may call time out |
| 110 x 60 yards |
Field Dimensions |
110 x 53 1/3-60 yards |
| Stick up to, not touching, center line |
Face-off |
Stick up to, not touching, ball |
| Loose ball |
EMO Period Ends Ball in Flight |
Team possession if caught |
| At 4-minute of half time |
Coach Request Rule Query |
During a dead ball |
| B must play ball before warning issued to A |
A stalling in attack area |
Referee can issue stall warning at any time |
| Be reasonable w/team |
Goalie Penalty/Injury |
1-minute warm up |
| Procedures outlined |
Stacking |
No mention |
| Penalty |
Illegal Field |
No penalty |
| Mini version OK |
Coaches Certification |
Full 5 point certification |
| Illegal procedure |
Feigning a Foul |
No mention |
| Re-start at spot on end |
Endline Time Out |
Re-start outside of box |
| Yes |
Goalie Crosse Required |
Implied in Rule 2-1 |
| Coin toss winner has choice |
Alternate Possession |
Coin toss winner |
| It's a forfeit |
Start Game w/less than 10 |
Implied in Rule 1-1 |
| No entry until possession |
Re-entry on EMO face-off |
May enter if wing is left open |
| 1 minute non-releasable |
Illegal Cleats |
No penalty, must remove |
| Only if stick is illegal |
Goal Scorer/Adjust Crosse |
No goal if adjusted before handing to referee |
| Stick Only |
Equipment Check 1st/3rd |
Full Service |
| Stays |
2 non-release unsportsmanlike on same person |
Person ejected and 3-minute penalty assessed |
| Technical Foul |
No Mouthpiece |
1 minute non-releasable |
| Award to opponent |
Ball Stuck in Crosse (Plunger) |
Award to opponent |
| 20 seconds to get over midline |
Clearing |
10 seconds to get over def. box line |
| Turnover where whistled |
Offside Call |
Award ball both feet over midline |
| Technical Foul |
Playing w/o required equipment |
Referee suspends play at his discretion |
| Referee suspends play |
Broken Goalie Equipment |
Referee suspends play at his discretion |
| Player is where he left from |
Airborne Player |
No language. Situations vary. See 4-14, situations J&K |
| B's remaining time and additiona; 30 seconds wiped out |
B releases himself early from his penalty |
B serves only the additional 30 seconds. Unexpired penalty time wiped out. |
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
January 3, 2005
Clinics
Required NCAA/COC Clinic will be held at the US Lacrosse Convention on Saturday January 15 from 9a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Philadelphia Marriott Level 5 in Salon F. Regional clinics are listed below. Clinic attendance is required for those officials planning on working games in the 2005 season.
Referees Needed in Utah for June 17-18
The Ski Town Shoot-Out is the first U-11 and U-13 jamboree for the Western United States. On June 17-18, 16 youth teams will meet in Park City, Utah. The venue is 35 minutes from the Salt Lake airport, one of Delta's major hubs. The Ecker Hill field complex is one of the finest facilities in the state. The ULA is looking for four out-of-state refs to work at least nine one-hour games at $25 per game, and there's a $100 travel stipend. We can offer guest rooms at the houses of local refs, or you can take advantage of discounted hotel rates in Park City. Contact Michael O’Malley. michaelo@xmission.com .
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
December 15, 2004
District VIII - MDIA Event
District VIII will be holding an MDIA event in February. The event will consist of eight teams from around the country. These are full length games with three men crews. If you are interested, please review the details below (airfare is your responsibility, hotel is covered by the event). Please send a short e-mail to gene.brown@novotus.com or gdbc@austin.rr.com from your CAA confirming your availability. Dates: Friday, February 25th until Sunday, February 27th, 2005. Game times will be roughly 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday, TBA on Saturday, and roughly 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. I would recommend that officials arrive by 1 p.m. Friday and plan to fly out at 6 p.m. or later on Sunday.
Participating teams:
• Texas
• Texas A&M
• Texas Tech
• Oakland
• New Hampshire
• Eastern Michigan
• North Texas
• SMU
Hertz discount information
Make reservation on online at www.hertz.com
Use CDP # 1392797 (SW Lacrosse Officials 5-10% discount) and PC # 952081 (additional $5 per day discount)
Continental Airlines discount information
The Lone Star Lacrosse Classic is pleased to offer the following discounts to visiting teams, officials, and fans. There are two discount options available -- choose the one that is best for you and your group: 15% discount on any fare in A, D, F, J, C, Y, H , or K class of service, for tickets issued by December 17, 2004.
Note 1: For travel from Cleveland (CLE) or Newark (EWR), discount is 8% instead of 15%.
Note 2: The discount reduces to 10% (3% from CLE or EWR) for tickets issued after December 17, 2004. A special "zone" fare, starting at $363 to $446 (depending on origin) for 14-day advance purchase. Discounts valid for travel dates Feb. 17-Mar. 4, 2005. To use the percentage or zone fare discount, call your travel professional or Continental's MeetingWorks at 1.800.468.7022. Outside of the United States, please call your local Continental Airlines Reservation Office. When calling, be sure to advise the agent of the following: Agreement Code: 381KZV Z Code: ZJK3. Experience dependable, first-rate service and earn miles in OnePass, Continental's award-winning frequent flyer program. To enroll in OnePass, log on to www.continental.com.
Field Location: The field location for the Lone Star Lacrosse Classic - Collegiate Showcase is: Bear Creek Park, 15000 Clay Road, Houston TX 77084 in west Houston Preferred airport is Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH).
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
December 8, 2004
COC Election Results
To all COC members:
The election results are listed below. I want to thank Rich Tamberrino and Anthony Pagano for all the work they have done while serving on this board. Their countless hours have helped in making our group a stronger organization. The last two years has seen much change for the COC. Many hours have been spent by this board in making sure the future looks bright for college officials. We have for the first time ever contracts for all levels of college officiating. We just finished a contract with the MDIA. This is the first agreement with this organization that has ever been formalized. We thank the MDIA board for making sure these negotiations went so smoothly. We also must thank US Lacrosse for all the help they have given us. Their training material that our officials have developed is distributed through their organization to officials from all over this country. This definitely helps bring more officials to our college ranks.
We owe much thanks to Craig Brown. His guidance through our contract negotiations has helped realize our goal. We are now in the process of negotiating a contract for all USILA schools for 2006 & 2007. The convention is January 14 and 15. Our meeting is set for Saturday, January 15 at 9:00am as in the past. More information will be coming to you about the details. There also will be clinics all around the country this year in case you do not go to the convention. That information will be coming out as soon as all dates have been finalized. I know the new board looks forward to the challenges that lie ahead.
Have a Happy Holiday!
Steve Miller
Chair Election Results
The COC election process has been finalized. The COC board thanks everyone for voting. Results of the election are below.
New COC Executive Board
Past Chairman - Steve Miller
Chairman - John Hill
Vice Chairman - Hans Wittelsberger
Treasurer - Butch West
Secretary - Eric Evans
At-Large USILA - Kevin O’Leary
At-Large MDIA - J.D. Doyle
A total of 318 ballots were verified and counted. With assistance from USL, individuals were verified and recorded by District. Below is the breakdown of votes per District for information purposes.
| District 1 - 67 Votes |
District 2 - 64 Votes |
District 3 - 30 Votes |
District 4 - 50 Votes |
| District 5 - 19 Votes |
District 6 - 15 Votes |
District 7 - 10 Votes |
Distrcit 8 - 17 Votes |
| District 9 - 15 Votes |
District 10 - 26 Votes |
District 11 - 1 Vote |
Unknown - 4 Votes |
* The unknown votes are because of Zip Code Issues
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
October 25, 2004
MDOC/MDIA Agreement Signed
MDOC President Steve Hinchey has announced that a signed agreement has been reached with the MDIA (Men's Division Intercollegiate Associates). Several key people need to be thanked for their work and involvement in this process: Rob Wyman, Gary Alabaster, Steve Miller, Anthony Pagano, Craig Brown, and Bob Duggan as well as the MDOC Board and Jody Martin at US Lacrosse. The COC now has written agreements for both the USILA and the MDIA. The agreement with the MDIA is many pages in length and complete copies may be obtained from either Steve Hinchey or COC Secretary Eric Evans. Herewith is the (edited somewhat) fee structure:
Regular Season Game Fees
2005 Season: The MDIA A Division regular season game fee for three (3) officials shall be $120.00, together with mileage reimbursement for each official in accordance with the MDOC mileage chart The MDIA B Division game fee for three (3) officials shall be $110.00, together with mileage reimbursement for each official in accordance with the MDOC mileage chart. All MDOC officials that officiate MDIA games shall receive a per diem of Seventy-Five ($75.00) Dollars if travel is more than two hundred (200) miles one way. An additional Twenty ($20.00) Dollars shall be paid for all weekday MDIA games that face off before 3:00 p.m. except for games that are played on national holidays. The NAA, working in conjunction with the appropriate CAA, shall use reasonable efforts to schedule an interchange game where airfare and/or overnight stay is required in order to provide reasonable coverage of a particular game. If an interchange game cannot be scheduled, airfare and overnight stays shall only be paid for with the prior approval of the applicable Conference.
Subsequent Seasons: During the 2006 season and each season thereafter, the regular season A Division game fee for three (3) officials shall be $15.00 less than the NCAA Division 3 game fee, and the regular season B Division game fee for three (3) officials shall be $25.00 less than the NCAA Division 3 game fee for three (3) officials. Mileage reimbursement and per diem payments shall be the same as in effect with respect to NCAA Division 3 games. An additional $20.00 shall be paid for all weekday MDIA games that face off before 3:00 p.m. except for games that are played on national holidays.
Two Officials: The regular season game fee for all A Division regular season games and B Division regular season games that are officiated by two (2) officials shall be $25.00 more than the regular season game fee in effect for games officiated by three (3) officials.
MDIA Championships: The game fee for all MDIA championship games shall be $15.00 over the regular season game fee. Shuttle transportation for officials to and from hotel sites to and from the MDIA championship venue shall be provided by the MDIA. The NAA shall be provided by the MDIA with an overall budget for all travel, airfare, lodging and meals (the "Championship Budget"). Working in conjunction with the Men’s Division Director of US Lacrosse and the MDIA Vice President of Competition, the NAA shall manage the assigning process with respect to the MDIA Championships in a manner that results in the most effective utilization of the Championship Budget consistent with the provision of an acceptable level of officiating services for all MDIA championship games. The MDIA championship fees, including reimbursement for travel, airfare, lodging, meals and any per diem, shall be reviewed annually by the fee negotiating committees of the MDIA and the MDOC.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
October 8, 2004
From: Tom Sutton, MDOC Secretary
COC Nominations for all officer positions
All COC members,
This is the first step in the process of the election of officers of the COC. Allofficersof the COC will be up for election. They include:
Chair
Vice Chair
Secretary
Treasurer
At-Large position (USILA)
At-Large position (MDIA)
The term of all of positions is two years. The term will begin January 1, 2005. An open nomination period will be held from todayOct. 8,2004 until Oct 15, 2004. Sometime shortly there after an approvedballot will be presented to the membership for the election.
All nominees must bea COC member in goodstanding. Self nominations are acceptable. If you are nominating a person please attempt to verifythe person is interested in the position. If you wish to nominate someone please email me at sutlax@aol.com.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
September 30, 2004
From: COC Mechanics Committee
With Fall lacrosse scrimmages beginning this weekend, the COC Mechanics Committee has prepared the following mechanics for us to use in conjunction with the NCAA's rule changes for the 2005 season. Please apply these changes consistently in your Fall scrimmages so that we may evaluate their effectiveness before the Spring season.
1. Face-Off Mechanic: The rotation following a goal is unchanged from previous years. THE FACE-OFF OFFICIAL WILL STAND WITH HIS BACK TOWARDS "HIS" GOAL. Place yourself in a position where you are able to see the sticks of both players. Tell each face-off player once what you are going to do.
Place the ball on the center "X". Indicate to both players to assume their respective positions at the same time by saying "down." As the players take their positions, place your whistle in your mouth, point one arm at the ball while raising the other arm over your head. The crosses shall rest on the ground along the edge of the center line, be placed parallel to each other up to, but not touching, the line. NO PART OF THE PLAYERS' BODY OR EQUIPMENT MAY TOUCH THE CENTER LINE.
Make certain that the reverse surfaces of the crosses match evenly and are perpendicular to the ground. Each player must have both hands wrapped around the handle of his own crosse, touching the ground. The right hand may not touch any part of the head of the crosse. The player's feet may not touch his crosse. Both hands and feet of each player must be to the left of the throat of his crosse. Each player must be positioned so his entire body is to the left of the throat of his crosse. It is legal to lean over the center line.
Once the players facing off have assumed their positions, say "set." The players may not back out or reset their positions once the official has said "set." Once this signal is given, both players must remain motionless until the official sounds the whistle for play. ONCE YOU HAVE SAID "SET", YOU SHOULD ALSO REMAIN MOTIONLESS. Sound the whistle promptly, varying your cadence slightly with each face-off. Lead with your whistle, then drop your arm. Especially on a sunny day, the shadow of your arm may give an early clue to one of the face-off players, therby creating an unfair advantage.
The wing officials should stand on the wing line, halfway between the center line and the end of the wing line. Watch the positions of the face-off players and their equipment, and be prepared to back up the face-off official, if necessary. Watch your wing players, making sure they are behind the wing line when the face-off whistle is blown. When the whistle blows, move toward your goal in case of a fast break, watch the wing players advancing toward the center "X", and be aware of any restraining line violations by the players in your end of the field.
NOTE: Last season's unpopular face-off mechanic was imposed on us because of our failure or refusal to make the face-off violation calls. CALL THE VIOLATIONS, or we will all suffer the consequences!
2. 20-Second Clearing Count: The trail official will start his 20-second timer when the clearing team gains possession of the ball. When the ball clears the center line, the single side official will raise his arm over his head, then point toward the offensive half of the field to signal to trail that the ball has been cleared. If the ball is being carried by a clearing player, BOTH FEET must be over the line to stop the clearing count. In this case, the 10-second offensive count would begin as soon as the defensive count ends.
If the riding team gains possession, then loses the ball, and possession is regained by the clearing team, signal and call "RESET" by raising your arm above your head and twirling your finger in a small circle.
3. Team Time-Outs: The team in possession of the ball may call a live-ball time-out only when the player with the ball has one foot in contact with the ground in the attack area (box). Both single side and lead officials should signal when the ball is in the box by raising an arm and keeping it up until the ball leaves the box, or it is clear to all that the ball is well inside the box. We need to make it clear, especially to the trail official, when a time-out may be called by a head coach, who may be far from the action on the other end of the field.
Please review the 2005 rule changes sent to us by Walt Munze (see 9.20.04 newsletter below), and know them cold before walking on the field this fall.
After using these mechanics in Fall scrimmages, please forward any comments on their effectiveness to David Seidman at davidseidman@mac.com, and the committee will review them before the Spring season.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
September 20, 2004
Major NCAA Rules Changes 2005
From: Walt Munze, US Lacrosse Rules Interpreter
--Rule 4-3, Facing Off. Reworded this section to read: "The official first shall place the ball on the ground in the center of the 4-inch-wide line. The players shall stand on the same side of the field as the goal each is defending. The official shall indicate to both players to assume their respective positions at the same time by saying "down." The crosses shall rest on the ground along the edge of the center line, be placed parallel to each other up to, but not touching, the line.
The official shall make certain that the reverse surfaces of the crosses match evenly and are perpendicular to the ground. Each player must have both hands wrapped around the handle of his own crosse, touching the ground. The right hand may not touch any part of the head of the crosse. The player's feet may not touch his crosse. Both hands and feet of each player must be to the left of the throat of his crosse. Each player must be positioned so his entire body is to the left of the throat of his crosse. It is legal to lean over the center line.
Once the players facing off have assumed their positions, the official shall say "set." The players may not back out or reset their positions once the official has said "set." Once this signal is given, both players must remain motionless until the official sounds the whistle for play. The official shall sound the whistle promptly. At the sound of the whistle, each player may attempt to direct the course of the ball by the movement of his crosse in any manner. It is illegal to kick or step on the opponent?s crosse."
--Rule 4-5-g, Note, Play of the Ball - Ball in flight. Changed to read: "have not been in possession during the flight of the ball, regardless of whether or not the ball is caught by a teammate."
--Rule 4-5-h, A.R. 26, Play of the Ball - Clear. Changed to read: "A1 passes to teammate A2. While the ball is in flight, B1 commits (1) technical foul or (2) personal foul. RULING: (1) Technical foul, play on mechanics. (2) Slow whistle is used. When the whistle is blown, the ball is awarded to Team A and B1 serves the proper penalty time (treat as possession foul)."
--Rule 4-14, Advancing the Ball Beyond the Defensive-Area Line. The committee voted to alter this rule to read: "Upon gaining possession of the ball inside the defensive half of the field, a team must advance the ball beyond the midfield line within 20 seconds. Failure to do so will result in a turnover, and the ball will be awarded to the opposing team."
--Add new Rule 4-19-e, Goalkeeper Privileges: "During the course of play if a goalkeeper's stick becomes broken or any other required equipment becomes broken or dislodged, play shall be suspended immediately."
--Rule 1-21, A.R. 21, Helmet, Face Mask and Mouthpiece. Delete "or other required equipment." Also, reword the ruling to read: "Goal counts, the game restarts with the ball being awarded to Team B at the center line."
--Rule 4-3, A.R. 18: After a faceoff, but before possession has been declared, a player loses any of the required equipment in the scrimmage area, the player (1) Continues to play; (2) Stops playing; (3) Is, in the opinion of referee, in danger of injury. RULING: (1) Technical foul. (2) Faceoff again if the whistle is blown while the ball is in the area between the defensive-area lines. (3) Referee must blow the whistle immediately and award the ball according to the alternate-possession rule if the ball crosses the defensive-area line.
--Rule 4-6-a, Out of Bounds. Add "the ground or any object on or beyond"
--Rule 4-6-b (2), Out of Bounds. Add "go directly out of bounds on a face-off, when it is not known which team caused the ball to go out-of-bounds, or who touched it last before going out of bounds, it shall be re-faced."
--Rule 4-6-b, Out of Bounds. Add new (4), to clarify: "A player who is legally in bounds may catch a shot or pass after the ball has crossed the plane of the end line or sideline."
--Rule 4-24, A.R. 115, Special Substitution. Add to ruling to clarify the intent: "This does not remove the responsibility of a team to adhere to the offsides rule."
--Rule 4-27, Official Timeouts. A player loses equipment in a scrimmage area and continues to participate in the play while that equipment is missing. RULING: Technical foul.
--Rule 4-28, Team Timeouts. It was VOTED: "During play, official team timeouts may be called by a field player of a team in possession of the ball or by that team?s head coach only when the player in possession of the ball has contact with the ground with one foot in that team?s attack area."
--Rule 5-6, Use of Illegal Equipment. Add A.R. 12: "A1 scores a goal. Before the faceoff, it is noticed that A1 is not wearing a piece of required equipment (e.g., shoulder pads, arm pads). RULING: Goal counts, A1 is assessed a one-minute non-releasable personal foul.
--Rule 6-11, A.R. 46, Stalling: Agreed to change to: "Team A brings ball into its attack area (without a warning), and (1) Team B is playing the ball or (2) Team B is not playing the area. Can Team A be warned to "keep it in" RULING: (1) Yes, if it is obvious to the officials that Team A is not attempting to attack the goal. (2) No. Team A has fulfilled its obligation by entering the attack zone and Team B must play the ball.
--Rule 6-11, A.R. 50, Stalling. Should read "Same situation as in A.R. 49."
--Rule 7-2, A.R. 5, Penalty Time. "No, B1 must wait for possession to be called and may then enter the field?"
--Rule 7-11, Enforcement of Play-On Technique. In the second paragraph, reword to include the wing lines: "The play-on technique shall be used for loose-ball infractions at the center line, the defensive-area lines and the wing lines."
Experimental Rule
--Rule 7-9, Slow Whistle. Experimental Rule: In a slow whistle situation where a flag is down for a foul, play shall not be stopped unless the ball leaves the offensive end of the field, the non-penalized team scores or the penalized team gains possession of the ball.
Rationale: The committee would like to see if this creates more shots and more offense. Also, this does not penalize the offense, which did not commit a foul and, the committee feels, deserves the advantage in this situation.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
August 12, 2004
Ethics Report 2004 Season
By: Kevin O'Leary, COC Ethics Chair
2004 marked the first season played under the new agreement between the USILA and the COC. The agreement states that the COC and the USILA shall establish an Ethics Review Board consisting of the Ethics Chair, the DOS (Connie Hurlbut) and a USILA administrator (Willie Scroggs). All complaints of unprofessional conduct relating to officials, coaches,administrators or other institutional representatives shall be promptly reviewed by the Ethics Review Board. The Ethics Review Board shall make final decisions with respect to all complaints. All final decisions of the Ethics Review Board with respect to officials shall be communicated promptly to the COC and the official or officials who are the subject of any complaint, and the COC shall implement the decision of the Ethics Review Board with respect to any such official.
All final decisions of the Ethics Review Board with respect to a complaint relating to a USILA member institution shall be communicated promptly to the Commissioner of the League of the USILA member institution that is the subject of any such complaint, if applicable, and the Athletic Director of the USILA member institution that is the subject of any such complaint. The League, if applicable, and the Athletic Director shall implement the decision of the Ethics Review Board. In the event that any USILA member institution that is the subject of a complaint fails to implement the decision of the Ethics Review Board and such failure continues for a period of fifteen (15) days after the delivery of written notice of such failure by the Chair of the Ethics Review Board to the USILA member institution, the USILA shall withhold officiating services from such USILA member institution until the decision of the Ethic Review Board has been implemented.
In 2004 there were 12 reported ethics violations. In all 12 cases the proper procedures outlined above were followed. Connie Hurlbut sent written reprimands to the institution that the ethics complaints were filed against. In two cases, institutional representatives were suspended from participating in a contest. In all 12 cases the COC Board felt that the USILA institution handled the concern in proper and professional manner. As a point a reference in 2003 there were 19 reported violations, and in 2002 there were 23 reported violations.
COC Newsletters Archived
The US Lacrosse web site now has an officials' page where the COC Newsletters will now be available. The link is located at www.uslacrosse.org/mens_div/mdocnews.phtml
DAA Performance Review
All COC members should have received a questionnaire from US Lacrosse pertaining to the DAA performance Review. This needs to be completed and returned (just follow the instructions on the questionnaire) to US Lacrosse in the next few days. If you did not receive a copy, please contact Kristin Raneri at US Lacrosse.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
July 26, 2004
1. Negotiations with US Lacrosse MD Intercollegiate Associates Council
The COC and the MDIA (Intercollegiate Associates) are in the process of negotiating fees, travel expenses, and a partnership for the 2005 season and beyond. More details will be forthcoming when available.
2. DAA Performance Review
According to the agreement between the USILA and the COC, the COC Executive Board is charged with conducting an annual review of the eleven District Assigning Authorities. That review is underway and will include input from the DOS, the DAD, and the membership of the COC. Most likely, the 600+ members of the COC will be solicited for their input via a questionnaire to go out in the next few weeks.
3. USILA Observers Program
Overview: In an effort to improve officiating, the USILA and the COC conceived the idea to observe as many officials as possible and in the process offer feedback to each official. Prior to the 2004 season the general practice was to observe the best officials in each District for NCAA tournament selection. The majority of officials were not observed on a regular basis because of a lack of sufficient manpower to make the observations as well as insufficient financial resources. However, in 2004, this program was made possible because of the combined financial backing of the USILA, the COC and US Lacrosse.
Selection Process:Approximately 20 individuals were chosen to work in the program as observers through recommendations made by the following individuals: DOS, DAD, DAAs, USILA Board and the COC Board. All but one of the observers are retired officials and many of these individuals were among the best in their respective districts when they officiated. In addition, funds were budgeted to allow each AA to be compensated for observation that fell under the umbrella of this program.
Observation Procedure: As the Director of the program, Bob Curcio's primary role was to assess those games that featured our targeted population and assign an observer to those games. Each observer was to give feedback to the officials in a post-game meeting. Each observer was also required to complete an observation form that was sent to the Director. Listed below are the numbers indicating how many officials were observed in District 1-6. Two sets of numbers are listed: the target population refers to the officials outside the top 15 or 20 in each district; the total population refers to all the officials in the District.
| District |
Target Population |
Total Population |
| 1 |
47/72 = 65.3% |
62/93 = 66.6% |
| 2 |
46/54 = 85.2% |
60/68 = 88.2% |
| 3 |
62/78 = 79.5% |
81/98 = 82.7% |
| 4 |
55/76 = 72.4% |
75/96 = 78.1% |
| 5 |
|
27/46 = 58.7% |
| 6 |
|
28/74 = 37.8% |
75% of the target population in Districts 1-4 were observed and given feedback. In the total population of Districts 1-6 we were able to observe 333 of the 475 officials; a percentage of 70.1%
Goals for next year:
1. Better training of the observers and more information as to what information we are looking for on each official
2. Observers need to put on the COC e-mail list so that they receive all rule interpretations, mechanics changes and points of emphasis
3. We need to develop standards for rating system from district to district
4. We need more observers in District 1, 5, and 6
5. Revise the observation form to coordinate it better with coaches and NCAA evaluation forms
4. Rules Changes
As he did last year, US Lacrosse Men’s Rules Interpreter Walt Munze will act in an advisory role when the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Rules Committee meets the second week of August.
US LACROSSE COLLEGIATE OFFICIALS COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER
December 22, 2003
To: US Lacrosse Men's Collegiate Officials Committee Members
From: Steve Miller, COC President
It with a great deal of enthusiasm that I announce that an agreement has been reached between the COC membership and the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association regarding the officiating of men's college varsity games in the 2004 season. I speak for the COC Executive Board and for all COC members when I say that we are very pleased with what has occurred and we very much look forward to our equal partnership with the USILA. Many thanks to USILA President Jim Stagnitta, US Lacrosse Counsel Craig Brown and COC Executive Board member Kevin O'Leary for their leadership and very hard work to get this done. Although more information will come soon, here are some of the pertinent details of the Agreement.
1. Fees and Mileage
A. 2004 Season: Division I game fee of $195.00, together with existing mileage reimbursement and per diem payments ($75.00 if travel is more than 200 miles one way). Division II and III game fees of $130.00, together with mileage reimbursement in accordance with the attached chart and the existing per diem payment ($75.00 if travel is more than 200 miles one way). An additional $20.00 shall be paid for all weekday Division I, II and III games that face-off before 3:00 P.M. These fees have been established taking into account the elimination of the four percent (4%) fee that would have been payable to the ECAC beginning in the 2004 season.
B. 2005 Season: Division I game fee of $210.00, together with mileage reimbursement and per diem payments as in effect during the 2004 season. Division II and III game fees of $135.00, together with mileage reimbursement and per diem payments as in effect during the 2004 season. An additional $20.00 shall be paid for all weekday Division I, II and III games that face-off before 3:00 P.M.
C. 2006 Season: IRS mileage after first 50 miles for DII-III. Game fees to be negotiated for DI, DII, and DIII.
|
Mileage |
Roundtrip Total |
Payment |
|
25-49 miles |
50-99 miles |
$15 |
|
50-74 miles |
100-149 miles |
$25 |
|
75-99 miles |
150-199 miles |
$35 |
|
100-124 miles |
200-249 miles |
$50 |
|
125-149 miles |
250-299 miles |
$60 |
|
150-174 miles |
300-349 miles |
$70 |
|
175-199 miles |
350-400 miles |
$80 |
|
200 + miles |
400 + miles |
$85 |
2. Director of Officiating Services (DOS): The USILA-hired (and COC-approved) DOS shall have the overall administrative responsibility of the COC-USILA Agreement and, in particular, be in charge of an expanded Observer Program and act as the liaison to the ECAC on-line assigning system. The DOS will have a two-year contract and Connie Hurlbut will serve in this capacity in 2004 and 2005. During her career, Connie has served as Executive Director of the Patriot League, Assistant Director of the Ivy League, and as WNBA Director of Basketball Operations.
3. District Assigning Director (DAD): The USILA will hire as the DAD the individual selected by the COC. The DAD's main responsibility will be the day to day administration of the assignment of officials to USILA games. Although all actual assignments will be made by the district assignors (same men from last year), the DAD shall provide direction and oversight, particularly in relation to Division 1 games. Warren Kimber will serve in this position for a two-year term. Many of you are familiar with Warren from his role as NCO for the NCAA.
4. Relationship with ECAC: The USILA has hired the ECAC to provide its on-line assigning system, just as was done two seasons ago.
5. District Assignors: The USILA will hire as the District Assignors the individuals selected by the COC. The same District Assignors from the 2003 season will serve in 2004 for a one-year term.
6. Crews: The crew system that was implemented in 2003 has been abandoned and assignments for 2004 will be made by the DA's as they were in 2002 and previous years, subject to direction and oversight by the DAD. |
