Player Safety Assessment and Fair Play Initiatives

1. “BUT I GOT THE BALL REF!” ASSESSINGCHALLENGES NFF Referee Development Unit

2. ASSESSING CHALLENGES OBJECTIVES: To promote player safety To prevent injuries To encourage fair, skilful play To maximise enjoyment NFF Referee Development Unit

3. ASSESSING CHALLENGES CAUSES OF INJURY Clash of heads 2 footed tackles/slide in Tackles from the side Vertical jump/use of arm (Elbow to head – slap in face) NFF Referee Development Unit

4. ASSESSING CHALLENGES TYPES OF PHYSICAL CONTACT : • Part of the game • Did the player unfairly hinder the movement of the opponent? • Was contact fair or illegal? • Who initiated the contact? • Did the arms/body restrict a chosen position on the pitch? NFF Referee Development Unit

5. ASSESSING CHALLENGES DETERMINING UNFAIR PHYSICAL CONTACT: • The element of intent or malice • The speed of the player’s action/intensity • The opportunity of playing the ball/position of the ball • Position of the tackler • Distance of the challenge • Where & what was the contact? • Direction of the feet & use of the studs • Safety/respect shown for opponent • Does the challenge involve EXCESSIVE FORCE? • Tactical situation NFF Referee Development Unit

6. ASSESSING CHALLENGES CARELESS: • Lack of attention • Not exercising due care • An error of judgement NFF Referee Development Unit

7. ASSESSING CHALLENGES RECKLESS PLAY : • Gaining an unfair advantage • Clearly outside the norm for fair play • No regard for the opponent’s safety • Complete disregard for danger or consequences NFF Referee Development Unit

8. ASSESSING CHALLENGES EXCESSIVE FORCE: • Violence/ Brutality • Far exceeded the force necessary to make a fair play • Wild two footed lunges • Studs driven forcefully over the ball onto an opponent’s leg • Endangered an opponent’s safety NFF Referees Development Unit

9. ASSESSING CHALLENGES ROADBLOCK: • No offence • Free kick • Quiet word • Admonition • Caution • Send off NFF REFEREE DEVELOPMENT UNIT