Enhancing Football Refereeing with Aviation Expertise

The Scottish FA has taken a groundbreaking step by collaborating with aviation experts to refine the communication protocols among VAR officials. Willie Collum, the head of refereeing, emphasized the importance of maintaining composure in high-pressure scenarios, drawing parallels between the cockpit and the VAR room.

Learning from the Best

Top referees in Scotland recently participated in a session with two seasoned pilots, focusing on effective communication strategies. "These experts, who train pilots, discussed communication in the cockpit under extreme pressure," Collum shared with BBC Scotland. The goal is to improve the interaction between VAR officials at the center and those stationed at the stadiums, ensuring smoother operations during the new league season.

VAR Evolution in Scotland

VAR has been operational in Scotland for nearly three years, with Collum now entering his second year overseeing the officials. "While pilots deal with life-or-death situations, in football, the stakes are equally high. We need our VAR teams to communicate effectively, stay calm, and make rational decisions," Collum remarked.

Key Takeaways

The primary lesson from the aviation experts was the method of communication. Collum highlighted the need for open-ended questions rather than leading ones, allowing all officials to contribute their perspectives. "This approach is crucial, especially in the heat of the moment," he added.

Pre-Season Preparations

In preparation for the new season, the VAR team has conducted six to seven training sessions at the VAR center. These sessions have significantly elevated their readiness, incorporating the insights from the aviation experts.

New VAR Rules for the Season

This season introduces several rule changes to enhance the game's fairness and efficiency:

• Drop Ball Rule: The team that would have gained possession if the ball hadn't struck the referee now receives the drop ball. In the box, it goes to the goalkeeper.
• Double Touch Penalty: A penalty retaken if a player touches the ball with both feet and scores. If missed or saved, an indirect free-kick is awarded.
• Eight-Second Rule: Goalkeepers must release the ball within eight seconds, or a corner is awarded against them. An indirect free-kick is given if a player obstructs.

Role of the Captain

While all players can communicate with the referee, the captain remains the sole contact during critical decision moments. If the captain is a goalkeeper, an outfield player is designated for this role.

This innovative approach by the Scottish FA underscores their commitment to improving the standards of football refereeing, ensuring a fair and exciting season ahead.