Are you starting your journey as a referee and just purchased a top-of-the-line whistle for you to use? Know that there is more to using a referee whistle than just blowing into it. Here are some tips that will help you better communicate your role as a referee to the players on the field.
Use A Lanyard
A referee whistle is not going to do much good if you can't use it at a moment's notice. That's why you'll want to have the whistle ready to go on a lanyard. It keeps it close to your mouth rather than in your pocket, and you won't be fumbling with the whistle when you need to make a call.
Know The Grip And Positioning
It may seem like a simple thing, but there is a proper way to hold a referee whistle. You'll want to grip onto the sides of the whistle with your thumb and index finger, which gives you a comfortable grip that doesn't block any of the openings by accident. Get used to grabbing the whistle in this position so that you don't have a delay when using it.
Take A Deep Breath
Always remember to take a deep breath before you use the whistle. You want to produce a sound that is solid and sustained for long enough for everyone to hear you, as well as produce multiple short bursts to signal specific actions. Without that deep breath, you may not be able to produce the proper amount of short sounds necessary to communicate effectively what is going on.
Be Decisive
You often need to make a decision in a split-second as a referee, especially in fast-paced games where the action will continue until you blow the whistle. That strong burst of air into the whistle will need to be attention-grabbing so that people know it's the referee making the sound. Be prepared to instantly blow the whistle at the proper intensity and without any hesitation. It should sound like you know why you stopped the action based on the sound the whistle makes.
Control The Volume
In addition, you also need to know when it is appropriate to be loud and soft. You may want to use a softer volume for stopping play due to a minor infraction, but use a louder whistle for major infractions. The intensity will help communicate how serious the violation is so that there is no question when you explain the penalty.
Visit a local sporting goods retailer to learn more about sports referee whistles.
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