Officiating Communication & Signals

Overview

Standardized verbal calls and hand signals that referees use to communicate decisions, penalties, and game state information to players and staff.

Key Points

• Consistent signals help players and staff understand calls quickly
• Verbal calls are paired with visible hand motions when possible
• Signals cover eliminations, penalties, time, and stoppages
• Clear communication reduces confusion and disputes

Details

Officiating communication standards define the verbal calls and hand signals used to convey decisions during regulated play. Clear, consistent communication helps players, coaches, and other officials understand what has been called and how it affects the ongoing match.

Common communication elements include elimination signals, penalty indications, start and stop commands, neutral calls, and time-related announcements. Each signal is typically paired with a specific hand motion and, where possible, a simple verbal phrase that can be heard above field noise.

Referees are expected to project signals in a visible direction and repeat them when necessary, particularly in situations that significantly change the number of active players or the score. Communication around major penalties, gross misconduct, or game-ending calls is especially important for transparency.

Standardized signals also support video review and documentation, as observers can more easily confirm the sequence of events from the recorded gestures and calls.

Related Topics

• Refereeing & Officiating Standards
• Penalty Enforcement Procedures
• Penalties & Infractions in 1v1 Paintball
• governance