Positioning & Signals
Learn proper positioning and signal mechanics to officiate with confidence and professionalism.
Founder, Flag Football Advice · Co-owner, Louisiana Flag Football
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Positioning Fundamentals
Use the mechanics assigned by your league or referee lead. Crew size changes coverage, but every official should begin from a position that keeps the play boxed in and preserves a clear angle instead of chasing the ball.
Pre-snap
Identify your keys, count players, confirm the line and rush marker, scan substitutions, and establish eye contact with the crew.
At the snap
Read your assigned players before the ball. Move to maintain an open angle and avoid standing in passing lanes or directly behind a likely flag pull.
Downfield
Stay wide enough to see space between players, bracket contested catches with another official when possible, and observe the runner's flag belt through the end of the play.
Signals
Stop, face the reporting area, use the league-approved signal, state the foul and result, and do not restart until the crew and scorekeeper agree.