1. Department of Sport and Recreation COMMUNICATION Officials

2. Communication Communication is necessary to promote sport and exercise with a high degree of control for players and play. Clearly advises everyone of your decisions. Encompass the use of rules and signals to promote an increase participants enjoyment.

3. Communication The official’s interaction with participants, and others, is undertaken in a range of ways which include: Voice - communicates decisions/rulings Whistle – indication to participants to do something or notify of decision Signals – communicates decisions non-verbally Body language - communicates an emotion. Most Effective when using more than one method (eg. Voice & Signals)

4. Communication It is worth noting that 90% of the conflict, both on and off the field, occurs because of the tone, or how something was said, rather than what was said

5. Communication Participants and coaches are looking for officials who communicate in a clear, concise and confident manner. Clear Voice Appropriate words (eg. From Rulebook) Firm, pleasant manner Direct eye contact Loud enough for all participants to hear

6. The Three R’s of Communication Reinforcement - of rules and or decisions made Relevance - seek clarification about a specific question Relationship - introduce yourself (approachability) - specific positive feedback

7. Voice – Post Match Discussions Talking calmly and slowly Level, well modulated tone Normal Volume One person at a time Remove the Emotion

8. Effective communication contains six elements: Clear - Ensure that the information is presented clearly Concise - Do not lose the message by being long winded Correct - Be accurate, avoid giving misleading information Complete - Give all the information and not just part of it Courteous - Be polite and non-threatening, avoid conflict Constructive - Be positive, avoid being critical and negative Voice – Post Match Discussions

9. Listening Skills Actively listen to the person presenting their side of the event. C - concentrate - focus on the speaker A - acknowledge - through body language R - respond - ask questions for clarification and interest E - empathize - share in their emotions and feelings D - do not interrupt! Remain calm and controlled during the conversation. Be Professional

10. Body Language S face the other person squarely O adopt an open posture L Lean slightly toward the other person D at a distance apart of about 1 metre E keep good eye contact R try to be relaxed Remember: Up to 93% of Communication is non-verbal

11. Resources ASC - Communications ASC – A key to effective officiating ASC – Officiating Videos