United States Curling Association. Officiating Manual September, 2010

United States Curling Association Officiating Manual September, 2010

Table of Contents Introduction... 5 What s in This Manual?... 5 Manual Updates and Maintenance... 6 Update and Revision Schedule... 6 Section 1 The USCA Official... 7 Officiating Overview... 7 Officiating Philosophy... 7 USCA Officials Code of Ethics... 8 Officiating Dress Code... 9 Officiating Designations... 9 Championship Event Structure... 10 Officiating Courses... 12 Level I - Game Timing Mechanics... 12 Level II On-Ice Mechanics and the Decision Making Process... 12 Chief Umpire and Deputy Chief Umpire Training... 12 International Chief Umpire Training... 13 Certification Criteria... 13 Level I... 13 Level II... 13 Level III... 14 Level IV... 14 Section 2 Level I Official The Game Timer... 16 Roles and Responsibilities... 16 Pre-Game Responsibilities... 16 Using the Official Game Record Sheet (OGR)... 17 Game Timing Mechanics... 17 Timing Mistakes... 19 Official s Time Out Procedures... 20 Recording the Final Game Score... 20 Level I Certification Reminders... 21 Section 3 Level II Officials The Decision-Makers... 22 Roles and Responsibilities... 22 Points of Intervention... 22 The Decision-Making Process... 23 The On-Ice Supervisor... 23 Roles and Responsibilities... 23 OIS Procedures and Mechanics... 25 Measuring Rocks... 27 Hog Line Official... 30 Sensor Handles... 30 Roles and Responsibilities... 32 Equipment... 32 Timing Supervisor... 33 Responsibilities... 33 2

Pre-Game... 33 Authority of Timing Supervisor... 34 At the Finish of End 5... 34 Official Time Outs:... 34 End of Game:... 34 Post Game:... 34 Section 4 Level III Official Chief Umpire and Deputy Chief Umpire... 35 Roles and Responsibilities... 35 Chief Umpire... 35 Assistant Chief Umpire... 36 Chief Umpire Event Kit... 36 Duties of the Chief Umpire... 37 In Advance of Competition:... 37 Upon Arrival at the Venue... 37 Prior to the Start of Competition:... 38 Day of Competition:... 38 During the Competition:... 38 Post Competition... 39 Conducting a Team Meeting... 40 General... 40 Facility... 40 Event Procedures Team Meeting... 40 Rules of Play... 41 Other... 41 Evening Practice Sessions... 41 Post Round Robin Stone Selection.... 42 Dealing with the Media... 43 Guidelines for Player Interview:... 43 Guidelines for Photographers:... 43 Media Interviews:... 44 Section 5 Reference Material... 46 Case Studies... 46 Officiating Survey (Athletes and Coaches)... 49 Officiating Evaluation Form... 51 On-Ice Supervisor Quick Reference... 52 Decision-Making Process Summary... 52 Displaced Stationary Stone... 52 2-Stone Measure... 52 3-Stone Measure... 52 Sweeping... 53 Sweeping Behind the T-Line... 53 Game Timing Quick Reference... 54 During an End... 54 At the Finish of Ends 1-4 and 6-10... 54 At the Finish of End 5... 54 At the Finish of End 10... 54 3

Extra Ends... 54 Recording the Final game Score... 55 Team Meeting Quick Reference... 56 Appendix A Forms... 57 4

Introduction Thank you for offering to volunteer as a United States Curling Association official. Officiating at championship curling events can be challenging and rewarding. The top US officials may have opportunities to officiate at world events, even the Olympic Winter Games. The USCA has four levels of officiating. During your training as an official, you will gain detailed knowledge of the rules of play as well as event procedures. Level I officials will enjoy a front-row view of championship games as a Game Timer or, in some cases at world play, an On-Ice Observer. Level II officials will also enjoy the games from the ice level or from directly behind the glass with the added challenge of being hog line officials and/or in-the-moment decision makers such as On-Ice Supervisors and Timing Supervisors. Level III officials, in addition to the tasks of the earlier levels will run our events, ensure fairness and create a championship setting for our athletes. These officials will also conduct officiating courses throughout the country to train others. The highest level officials, Level IV, are the first US officials to be asked to officiate at our championships and in some cases act as Chief Umpires at international events. Good officials are needed at all levels. A good officiating crew is welcome by the athletes and will be instrumental in creating the proper championship atmosphere. What s in This Manual? This manual includes the course content theory of USCA Levels I and II. In addition, it contains the certification criteria for all levels as well as forms, and quick references. The course is not structured for different levels. The officiating content will be covered at all local courses. The level certification will be a function of experience and competency. Once the course has been taken, aspiring officials must complete the necessary practical experience and receive an acceptable review by the Chief Umpires at each of the events they officiate. Each level of certification is valid for three years regardless of current work. It is necessary to maintain your certification by officiating and receiving a good review at least one event every three years or act as a course conductor once every three years. 5

Manual Updates and Maintenance The USCA Championships Committee updates the officiating manual as needed. The Microsoft Word file is located on the USCA web site in the Championships Section. In order to have a complete manual, certain forms and documents must be manually inserted into the printed document. After downloading the document, we suggest you place the contents into a three-ring binder with section dividers. Also, on the web site is a Microsoft Excel file with a variety of officiating forms. Download this file and print the forms as well. The following should be inserted into the manual: The current Championship Procedures Booklet Official Game Record sheet Other forms as needed Cross check with your instructor to make sure you have the latest version. Update and Revision Schedule 1 st Edition, September 1988, Revised: August 1989; October 1989; April 1990; July 1990 2 nd Edition, August 1997, Revised: September 2000 3 rd Edition, September 2003 4 th Edition, December 2004, Revised: December 2005, January 2006, September 2007 5 th Edition, September 2008 6 th Edition, September 2009 7 th Edition, September 2010 6

Section 1 The USCA Official Officiating Overview Curling is a game of camaraderie where, even with established written rules, the spirit of the game was the enforcing agent. Before 1980 it was rare to see an official on the ice at any level of curling. In both Canada and the United States, however, the stakes increased rapidly with the introduction of television, sponsorship and the Olympic Games. Governing bodies like the United States Curling Association began using officials in their championships to administer the events and to help ensure a fair championship. Good officiating allows the athletes to police themselves and work out disagreements while the officials focus on procedural issues. In some cases, athlete behavior requires the intervention of qualified officials. Disregard for the rules of play and/or unsportsman-like behavior are reasons for official intervention. The presence of officials on the ice during competitions is now generally accepted. The USCA Championships Committee will try to ensure that well qualified, experienced, officials serve at curling events when requested or required. It is expected that all players are aware of the rules and that USCA officials will continue to enhance their credentials nationally and internationally through the USCA officiating program. Officiating Philosophy Curling is an honorable sport. At all levels, players must police themselves on procedures, rules and conduct. Administratively, the presence of officials at championship events is welcomed. It is also welcomed when players are unable or unwilling to police themselves on rules and conduct. The presence of officials must always be an enhancement to the event and never a detriment. An official will rarely intervene if both teams can agree on a course of action. While officials will always intervene when necessary, USCA officials are trained to intervene as little as possible. Later in the manual the points of intervention will be discussed more thoroughly. 7

USCA Officials Code of Ethics In the belief that the standards for United States curling officials should be exemplary, the following internationally recognized code of ethics to enhance "the spirit of the game" has been adopted. The responsibilities and public trust given to officials are important and to be honored. Good working relationships between athletes, coaches, other officials, media and site personnel are to be expected. Working events where direct relatives are competing is prohibited. Full disclosure is required if there is a personal or business relationship with an athlete or coach. All commitments made to continuing study, attendance, and deportment shall be honored. Commitments include showing up on time, taking direction from the Chief Umpire, being willing to serve where asked and not canceling participation unless there is an emergency. Officials shall constantly evaluate their work and upgrade their skills as evidence of their dedication to the sport of curling. Officials shall work constantly to uphold the standards of the game. No alcohol or controlled substances shall be consumed before or during a game. Smoking regulations at a competition shall be obeyed and smoking materials or food will not be carried into the ice area. The dress code established as suitable for officials will be honored. Social interaction with athletes and coaches during a competition shall be limited. Behavior must be consistent throughout the event. Responsibility for thorough knowledge of the rules of curling as well as for the procedures for the event being held is imperative. All decisions shall be made in accordance with the rules in a firm, but not arrogant manner. Determinations are to be made quickly and fairly without being officious. At no time will score, individuals, or biased spectators influence any decisions. It is incumbent upon an official to be totally impartial and not to bet on, invest in, or otherwise have any vested interest in the outcome of a game or competition. An official never makes comments about games, teams or individuals. Recorded violations shall not be discussed with players unless so directed by the Chief Umpire. The conduct of an official shall be in such a manner that participants and officials will exhibit mutual respect. Avoid obscene or personal remarks, maintain personal dignity and sincerity and remember the sportsmanship inherent in the spirit of the game. Officials will intervene only when absolutely necessary. 8

Officiating Dress Code USCA officials are required to be well groomed and to look neat while officiating at a championship event. All officials will wear appropriate clothing to include but is not limited to: No blue jeans Collared shirt. When available, USCA Officiating jackets will be worn on the ice. Do not wear the official jackets outside the curling venue. On-Ice officials are encouraged to wear the warmest clothes possible. Officiating Designations For USCA officials, the following have been designated: Level I Skills package: Level II Skills package: Level III Skills package Level IV Skills package Game Timers Knowledge of the rules and procedures Ability to focus on a task Mechanical proficiency working the game clock Decision-Makers, Hog line, Timing Supervisor and On-Ice Supervisors Strong knowledge of rules and procedures Good interpersonal and conflict management skills Credibility with athletes Chief Umpires and Deputy Chief Umpires Thorough knowledge of rules and procedures Strong interpersonal and conflict management skills Highest credibility with athletes International and Emeritus Officials Thorough knowledge of international rules and procedures Strong interpersonal and conflict management skills Ultimate credibility with athletes All interested people are encouraged to earn a certification. Certification is made with successful completion of both written and practical experience. Levels I and II are the baseline levels where the officiating mechanics are learned. Anyone interested on a higher certification should contact the USCA for Apprentice status. Designations to Level III and Level IV are by appointment only. 9

Championship Event Structure All USCA championship events are governed by the USCA and the USCA officiating structure. The Championships Committee recommends rules changes and event procedural changes to the USCA Board of Directors. During the year, it may not be possible to convene the Board so the Championships Committee makes time sensitive decisions. During events when even the Championships Committee may not be able to meet, the Chief Umpire, in consultation with the Head Games Official and the Chairman of the Championships Committee will make decisions. Below is a summary of the officiating hierarchy. 1. Championships Committee 2. Chairman of the Championships Committee 3. Event Chief Umpire A Chief Umpire administers USCA championship events. The Chief Umpire has complete control of the championship from the time he or she arrives through the ending function. All other officials will take direction from the Chief Umpire. The Chief Umpire will take direction from the Chairman of the Championships Committee. The USCA will appoint the Chief and Deputy Chief Umpires for all national events. Local event resources dictate the level of officiating staffing for any given event. Staffing the events will be a function of the local organizing committee in partnership with the Chief Umpire. All USCA events must have a Chief Umpire. In some cases, an Apprentice Level III (Level III official in training) official will work with the Chief and Deputy Chief Umpires. Hog Line Officials will only be used at events where sensor handles are not being used. Sensor handle events will have no Hog Line Officials. If resources are not available for a full complement of officials the following hierarchy will be used. 1. Chief Umpire 2. Game Timers 3. On-Ice Supervisors 4. Hog Line Officials* 5. Deputy Chief Umpire 6. Timing Supervisor 7. On-ice Observers 10

If a full staff is available, the following coverage is expected: 1 Chief Umpire 1 Deputy Chief Umpire (s) 1 or 2 Apprentice Umpire(s) 1 On-Ice Supervisor for every two sheets (one per sheet semis and finals) 1 Timing Supervisor 1 Hog-Line Official at the end of each hog line* Timers (1 per sheet) On-ice observers (1 per sheet) * at non-sensor handle events only In some situations (local bonspiels, club/district play-downs) the officials may be limited to a Chief Umpire, who serves as the On-Ice Supervisor. All measurements on the ice and decisions necessary for the event shall be made in accordance with the rules. 11

Officiating Courses Periodically, the USCA conducts the officiating course. Most of the courses are scheduled in conjunction with an upcoming national event. Any group however can request a course for their state, region or club. A small fee is associated with the course to help pay the expenses of a qualified instructor. The USCA recognizes the World Curling Federation (WCF) Rules to be the official curling rules of play for United States players at all levels. It is believed that the USCA best serves the needs of its curlers by thoroughly familiarizing them with the curling rules and with the methods of official procedures. It also believes the United States should have its own officials at its national competitions and that United States curling officials should be present at international events. Taking a course is informative. However, only experience and proficiency will determine the designated level an official may assume or the position to which one may be appointed. The entire content of the course can be delivered over a one or two-day session. Instructors are qualified Level II, III and IV officials. They deliver the content through a structured Microsoft PowerPoint presentation that can be downloaded from the USCA web site. The USCA officiating classroom training is divided into two segments: Level I - Game Timing Mechanics The beginning of the session concentrates on the role of the Game Timer within the overall structure of officiating at a curling competition. Procedures, rules and game timing mechanics will be emphasized. Level II On-Ice Mechanics and the Decision Making Process The next segment of content expands upon the skills learned by the Game Timer. It will prepare the Level I official to act as a decision-maker at the championship As the official progresses to Hog Line Official, On-Ice Supervisor, Timing Supervisor, Hog Line Supervisor, emphasis is on procedures, rules, mechanics and case studies of actual game situations and official decisions. Certified Level II officials are expected to be proficient enough to act as a regional championship Chief Umpire. Higher level training is done on the job at national championships Chief Umpire and Deputy Chief Umpire Training There is no specific training course for event managers. Potential Level III officials will learn the process through experience as an Apprentice Level III at any national event. This manual, along with the Championships Rules and Procedures, provides a guideline for managing events. Experience, however will be gained by work on-the-job. The last segment of the manual builds on the knowledge gained at Level II but expands the role of decision maker to include the administrative duties and overall event management. Emphasis is on how to conduct meetings, how to evaluate rules interpretations, game 12

situations and case studies. Level III officials are competent to run national championship events. International Chief Umpire Training A small group of USCA officials may seek the highest level of officiating. There is also no specific course content for Level IV. Experience and proficiency will dictate advancement. This level is appointed by USCA and requires international experience at Level III. The World Curling Federation (WCF) controls the officiating at all world championships and Olympics. Officials seeking international experience are encouraged to work through the USCA Championships Committee for recommendation to international posts. World venues within the United States require many officials to participate, mostly through the Organizing Committees. Certification Criteria Classroom Requirement: All candidates for Levels I and II must complete a USCA officiating course(s) with a satisfactory review of game timing mechanics, game focus, the completion of the Official Game Record and on-ice mechanics. Upon completion of the officiating course, the instructor will forward the attendance records to the USCA office and the student will be registered as a USCA official with no certification. Level I Practical Requirement: Within three years of the course, act as a Game Timer for three (3) draws at a USCA event with satisfactory review of the Chief Umpires. Upon completion of the practical, the student will forward the officiating record to the USCA office and will be certified as a Level I Official. Certification Maintenance Requirement: To maintain a Level I certification an official must work as Game Timer at one USCA event every three years and have satisfactory reviews from the Chief Umpires. Level II Practical Requirement: Must have completed Level I certification requirements. Within three years of the course, act as an On-Ice Supervisor, Hog Line Official and Timing Supervisor during six draws (2 each) at a USCA event with a satisfactory review by the Chief Umpires. If no Hog Line Officials are used at an event, three and three is acceptable. Upon completion of the practical, the student will forward the officiating record to the USCA office and will be certified as a Level II Official. Interested officials seeking higher certification should contact the USCA office for an Apprentice Level status. 13

Certification Maintenance Requirement: To maintain a Level II certification an official must work in a supervisory capacity at one USCA or international event every three years and have satisfactory reviews from the Chief Umpires. Level III A Level III candidate must be a certified and current Level II official. Any certified Level II in good standing with the USCA can become an Apprentice Level III by notifying the USCA office. The Championships Committee will make every effort to place the Apprentice into a Deputy Chief Umpire or Chief Umpire role at USCA events. Practical Requirement: Apprentice Level III officials must work as a Deputy Chief or Chief Umpire in at least three district, regional or National championships. One of the three must be at a weeklong national event. In addition, the apprentice must receive satisfactory reviews from each Chief Umpire and satisfactory reviews from the athletes at the events. An apprentice should instruct at least one officiating course under the supervision of a Level III or IV official. Once the practical experience is complete, the Championships Committee will review the status and either grant the applicant Level III status, ask for more experience or deny Level III status. Certification Maintenance Requirement: To maintain a Level III certification an official must work as a Chief or Assistant Chief Umpire once every three years and have satisfactory reviews from the Chief Umpires, Assistant Chief Umpires, and athletes. The Championships Committee bases further advancement to Level IV on continued experience and evaluations. Level IV A Level IV candidate must be a certified and current Level III official. He or she should also have mastered the content of the USCA Officiating Manual and Officials Bulletins. Any certified Level III in good standing with the USCA can request to become a Level IV official by notifying the USCA office. The Championships Committee will consider recommending the candidate for international level appointments. 14

Practical Requirement: Apprentice Level IV officials must work as a Chief Umpire in at least three US National championships. In addition, they must act as a Deputy Chief Umpire or Chief Umpire at an international competition. In addition, the apprentice must receive satisfactory reviews from each National Chief Umpire and athletes, and each international Chief Umpire. When the practical experience is complete, the Championships Committee will review the status and either grant the applicant Level IV status or ask for more experience. 15

Section 2 Level I Official The Game Timer Roles and Responsibilities Game Timers are responsible for recording each team s playing time. The chess clock principle is used. The responsibility is to operate the specified clocks accurately. One timer is appointed for each sheet. Timers also keep the official game record on the Official Game Record (OGR) sheet. Use the following guidelines during the event. Prepare your Event Kit prior to the event Be sure both ends of the sheet are visible. Concentrate on the game to which assigned. Use only one hand to operate the clock. Be aware of over-all game times and alert officials should problems arise Focus on the game. Do not converse with coaches, fifth players, spectators, etc. Notify the Timing Supervisor if you need a break Game Timer Event Kit Every official should have an event kit appropriate to their certification. Each Game Timer should prepare their event kit. This includes some things that the Chief Umpire will not provide. This should include: Three-ring binder Copy of the current USCA Officiating Manual (downloaded from web site) Copy of the current USCA Championship Procedures A blank Official Game Record sheet (OGR) Game Timer s Quick Reference Pre-Game Responsibilities The Game Timer checks in with the Timing Supervisor or Chief Umpire 1/2 hour before the game. Any instructions will be given and an opportunity to practice with and check the operation of the clocks will be allowed. Clocks must be set according to competition rules. Location of the timers will be decided by the Chief Umpire or Timing Supervisor and will depend upon the specific venue. At any given draw, you may be asked to time the pre-game practice session. If so, you will need to be in place 35 minutes before game time. Equipment: Game clocks for each team Small timer Pencils with erasers Official Game Record (OGR) and clipboard Radio head set if available. 16

The Game Timer will prepare the OGR sheet before the game. Header information may be provided but specific game information must be completed by the Game Timer. Verify the players on the ice with the team lineup card. The Chief Umpire controls the line-up cards, which are usually located in the official s area. Report any discrepancies to the Timing Supervisor. The timer must be in the assigned position five minutes before commencement of the game. Use the restroom prior to taking your position Be sure both ends of the sheet are visible from your chair. Fill in the information requested on the OGR sheet Be aware of which team is the first stone team, for starting the proper game clock Focus on your game Using the Official Game Record Sheet (OGR) The Official Game Record (OGR) is the documentation and game record for each championship game. The game timer is responsible for keeping the record. The OGR is a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet included in the Officiating Forms file. The Forms can be downloaded from the USCA web site. In some events, the Chief Umpire or Deputy Chief Umpire will prepare the OGR before each game with the teams, umpires and timers already printed. We will review the process of using the form from the beginning. The Game Timer arrives 30 minutes before the draw start time and receives the information regarding last stone advantage and choice of rocks. This information is collected from the teams by the Chief Umpire. While you are preparing your timing station, the OGR should be filled out properly. Filling Out the Official Game Record: 1. Prepare header information. Most of the header information is self-explanatory. Ask your Timing Supervisor or Chief Umpire if you have any questions. 2. List the teams by rock color and check the last stone box. 3. List the team members from the Official Lineup Card provided by the Chief Umpire. 4. List the team coach from the line up card. 5. Indicate the skip an X and the acting skip with a XX Game Timing Mechanics Beginning of Game The On-Ice Supervisor signals verbally or blows a whistle at exactly one minute before the scheduled start of the game to allow players to slide. At EXACTLY game time, the On-Ice Supervisor will signal again. This also signals the Game Timer to start the one-minute clock. At this time, the first stone team may throw the first stone. The team throwing first has one minute to execute the first stone before their 17

game clock begins. The game clock is started when the first delivered stone reaches the tee line or the end of one minute, which ever happens first. Reset the small timer to one minute. You will need the clock set for the next end. During an End Continue to stop and start the game clocks using the following guidelines. Play of a stone is complete when the Game Timer observes that the stone has stopped or moved out of play AND all players have yielded the playing surface to the opponent. Some stones may still be in play or may not have crossed by the back line. Be aware of skips, sweepers or throwers that remain in the field of play preventing the opponent from executing a shot. Yielded means the opponent can begin execution of their shot. Timers are encouraged to soft focus on the sheet and not to watch stones. This will allow you to see whether or not the throwing team has yielded the sheet. Watch for the following: Sweepers remain in the field of play preventing the skip from signaling the thrower. Thrower remains in the field of play. The throwing team has displaced stones that need to be cleared, sometimes with the help of the opposing players (the sheet is yielded when next team can execute a call). DURING AN END, THERE IS NO DOWN TIME ON THE CLOCKS. ONE CLOCK MUST BE RUNNING. EXCEPTIONS WOULD BE IF AN OFFICIAL INTERVENES. The end is over when the last stone has come to rest or crossed the back line. STOP THE GAME CLOCK, record the times on the OGR. In games timed with small clocks, turn the OGR to allow the teams on the ice to see the elapsed time. In ends 1-4 and 6-10 (of a 10-end game), the one-minute between-end time is started when the acting skips agree on the score or, if a measurement is needed, when the official determines the score. If measurements are made by the teams, start the one-minute clock when the measure is complete. Be careful not to start the one-minute clock until the score has been agreed upon. START THE GAME CLOCK when the first lead stone reaches the near tee line or the one-minute clock stops, which ever happens first. Note: The first stone team may start immediately after the end is over, even if the one minute has not expired. Be aware that this is not break time for the timer. TEAMS MAY NOT CALL A TIME OUT UNLESS TO REQUEST AN OFFICIAL TO INTERVENE. The clock may also be stopped by any appropriate official wishing to intervene. The proper clock will be restarted when the official leaves the playing area and signals the Game Timer with a clockwise rotation of the hand. Be alert to situations which may require a clock to be stopped. 18

Should there be an extenuating circumstance accident, illness, broken equipment and the clocks did not stop immediately the Chief Umpire will advise the Timing Supervisor or Timer how the clocks will be regulated. At the Finish of End 5: The 5-minute clock starts when the vice skips agree on the score or a measure is completed. Players may begin by agreement before the full 5 minutes have elapsed but not before four minutes have elapsed. If teams are in the area, they will be notified when two minutes of the break remains. Teams may begin play at any time after four minutes if both teams are ready to play. Timing resumes when the first stone reaches the near tee line or the conclusion of 5 minutes. No clock will be started if the On-Ice Supervisor determines ice preparation cannot be completed in the 5 minutes. In this case the proper game clock will start 1 minute after the ice crew leaves the ice. At the Finish of End 10: The clock is stopped when the last stone and all other stones it affects comes to rest or are behind the back line. If the score is tied, a 1-minute clock is started after the vice skips agree on the score or a measure is completed. Extra Ends: End of Game: Each team receives 8 minutes of playing time at the beginning of each extra end. Timing resumes when the first stone reaches the near tee line, or at the completion of 1 minute.. The one-minute clock is used between successive extra ends. Each team shall complete its part of the game within the time frame given. A game is completed when one team is mathematically eliminated i.e. fewer stones remain in play and/or left to deliver than are needed to tie or win. If time runs out on a team during its final shot of the game, and the stone has crossed the near tee line, the stone will be allowed to complete its path and the result will count. If the stone HAS NOT REACHED THE NEAR TEE LINE, THE SHOT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED. If a team s clock counts down to 0:00 before the completion of a game, the team will forfeit the game. Timing Mistakes Occasionally, mistakes are made by the Game Timer. Mistakes are classified in the 19

following way: The non playing team s clock continues to run Two clocks are running at the same time (small clocks only) Clocks are started and stopped before the ice has been yielded Inadvertent resetting of the game clock If the large LED clocks are being used, the athletes will quickly point out a clock mistake. Timing mistakes at events using the small clocks are less noticeable. In either case, mistakes made by the Game Timer must be immediately reported to a supervisor. If the OGR has been properly completed throughout the game, the supervisor can adjust the game clock based on the previous end. Almost all timing mistakes can be resolved by clock adjustments made by the Timing Supervisor or Chief Umpire. If a series of mistakes are made by a Game Timer during one game, the situation will be reviewed by the Chief Umpire. Official s Time Out Procedures At any time during a game an official may call timeout. The traditional T should be used. When the Timer receives the signal, the clock should be stopped immediately and the Timing Supervisor should be notified. The Game Timer should start the clock when the official signals with the clockwise rotation of the hand. Team Time Outs and/or Coach Interventions are not allowed in USCA competition. Recording the Final Game Score In some cases, a team may not throw the last stone or stones. Score an end incomplete X if the game is mathematically over before all stones for each team have been thrown. Record the current score of the end if a team concedes the game after throwing their last stone while the other team is counting. Otherwise, score an X. The final score of a forfeited game is recorded as W L. The Game Timer is responsible for keeping a record of draws worked during a competition and to have an Experience Record sheet signed by a supervisor or the Chief Umpire in order to gain certification credit. Post Game: The timer will: Obtain signatures of both skips on the OGR Return the OGR to the Timing Supervisor or to the designated area. Be sure to turn in all equipment. 20

Keep a record of the competition, draw, date, and name of the Timing Supervisor for certification records. REMEMBER: No comments about the participants or the game! Level I Certification Reminders 1. Keep records of the places and times you officiate. 2. Have the On-Ice Supervisor, Chief Umpire or designee sign your experience record so you can send them to the USCA office. Keep a copy for your own records. 3. Once the practical and technical portion of your requirements is met and recorded at the USCA office a Certified Level I certificate and bar will be sent. 21

Section 3 Level II Officials The Decision-Makers Roles and Responsibilities Level II officials will serve in several capacities. In each capacity, the Level II is a decision-maker. The following is a list of decision-maker positions: On-Ice Supervisor Timing Supervisor Hog Line Official in non-sensor handle events Because of the nature of these positions, strong knowledge of the rules paired with good interpersonal skills is essential. As a Level II official you may be asked to officiate in several different capacities, on and off the ice. Use the following guidelines as a Level II official. Prepare your Event Kit prior to the event Wear or bring warm clothes to officiate on the ice Be aware of over-all game and alert officials should problems arise Focus on the game. Do not converse with coaches, fifth players, spectators, etc. Level II Event Kit Each level II official should prepare their event kit. This should include: Three-ring binder Copy of the current USCA Officiating Manual (downloaded from web site) Copy of the current USCA Championship Procedures A blank Official Game Record sheet (OGR) A blank Intervention Log sheet OIS, TS, Quick References Points of Intervention Good Supervisors know when and when not to intervene in a game. The best officials don t intervene when it s not needed. Use the following guidelines for intervening in a game: Never intervene: If the teams can work it out themselves without intimidation or coercion Always intervene: When a measure of any kind is needed When asked by a skip or vice skip When dissemination of information not clearly posted or visible is needed When the hog line is violated during non sensor handle events During any type of intimidation or coercion During conduct violations listed in the Championship Rules and Procedures 22

During a rules infraction that could change the outcome of a game During an injury with blood If any unsafe condition exists Any additional intervention must be to assist the players. For example, score hanging, measurements, etc. Minor rules violations such as excessive movement, poor sweeping technique, equipment on the ice, etc. must always be dealt with off the ice and after the game. If necessary, a coach or skip can be contacted during the fifth end break. The Decision-Making Process For Levels II and higher, decisions will be made during the event that may determine the outcomes of games or for that matter, events. The process in which officials make decisions is critical to the success of our championships. Some decisions are the result of unclear or ambiguous language in the rules, resulting in officials interpreting the rules in the moment. Other decisions are the result of disputes between two teams. Disputes fall into two categories Category 1 Category 2 Easily solved by referring to the rules Judgment issues not specifically covered in the rules Steps for resolving disputes 1. Allow the skips to work through the issue and resolve it themselves. If they are unable or unwilling, the On-Ice Supervisor must intervene and decide if it s a category I issue (rule related) or if it s a category 2 issue (judgment related). If Category I, resolve the issue by referring to the rules. If Category II, the issue is more difficult. 2. Allow the non-offending skip to describe the incident. 3. Allow the offending skip to describe the incident. 4. Make a fair decision or contact the Chief Umpire for assistance The On-Ice Supervisor Roles and Responsibilities At the direction of the Chief Umpire, the On-Ice Supervisors are given the authority to be the first-line decision makers on the ice surface. Each OIS could be responsible for multiple games at one time. The OIS will deal with a host of issues including hog line violations in no sensor handle events, sweeping violations, rules violations and questions, two and three-rock measuring and general conduct. Although the OIS is responsible for 23

the entire game they will position themselves at the active house end of the sheet when possible. When teams are opposite each other, position yourself at the active house that is nearest the completion of the end. The OIS are assigned their positions each draw by the Chief Umpire. Most interventions by the OIS are for measures. The On-Ice Supervisors maintain radio contact with each other, with the Hog-Line Officials in non sensor handle events, the Timing Supervisor and the Chief Umpire at all times. All decisions regarding warnings or penalties will be confirmed with the Chief Umpire before implementation. If teams become involved in a serious disagreement, the Chief Umpire should be advised of the situation before any action is taken. In any case, intervention should be kept to a minimum. If an official must intervene in a game, it should be documented in the Intervention Log. Each decision-making official will have a separate Intervention Log that is kept throughout the event. The logs are kept by the Chief Umpire between games. Interventions to be logged include, but are not limited to: Measures of any kind Hog line violations in non sensor handle events Rules clarifications Conduct issues Disputes of any kind Warnings of any kind (conduct, sweeping, positioning, movement) Penalties of any kind Items that should not be logged: Notifications of time remaining (timeouts, fifth end break, etc) Casual discussions or quick questions Err on the side of logging everything. If you are not sure whether it should be logged, log it. The On-Ice Supervisor should be equipped with the following: Level II Event Kit On-Ice Supervisor Quick Reference Intervention Log 24

OIS Procedures and Mechanics Pre-Game Practice Prior to commencement of a draw, the On-Ice Supervisor will loosely supervise the practice time allowed to each team. Teams will be pre-assigned to practice at 30 minutes prior to draw or at 20 minutes before the draw. The ice will be cleaned after the warm-up period but will not be re-pebbled. Following each team s practice, that team will throw their Last Shot Distance (LSD) stone to determine which team has choice of first or last stone in the first end of that game. Each team s LSD is recorded on the OGR. A typical schedule for pre-game practice and the start of the game is as follows (team A is scheduled with the first practice, team B with the second practice) : 30 minutes prior to game time: first practice sliding allowed. 29 minutes prior to game time: first practice stone throwing allowed. 23 minutes: first practice ends, LSD for team A begins (from the away end towards the home end). 21 minutes: LSD for team A is complete. 20 minutes: second practice sliding allowed. 19 minutes: second practice stone throwing allowed. 13 minutes: second practice ends, LSD for team B begins. 10 minutes: the ice is swept 1 minute: sliding by both teams is allowed. 0 minutes: the team delivering the first stone may begin play. 1 minute past the game start time: If the team delivering the first stone has not delivered the first stone, then the team is in violation of Rule R11. Scoring (i)(i). The on-ice supervisor should be sure to carefully record and retain all Last Stone Draw measurements. The average of each team s last stone draw measurements (less the largest measurement) constitute the team s Draw Shot Challenge result. The OIS is responsible for monitoring the start, switch and end of the pre-game practice. The athletes do not require notification of start times. As a courtesy, the supervisor should notify them of each practice start, one minute remaining and the practice end times. There may be a slight delay between the first and seconds practice if teams are still in the field of play. Be aware of teams that are unaware of the time remaining in practice. Stones left at the opposite end should be returned before second practice and any practice abuse should be noted. The OIS should only intervene when the times are being abused. If large clocks are being used, the OIS will direct a Game Timer to operate the game clock for the practice. All sheets will use the same clock. Prior to Draw: Prior to the pre-game practice, check location and type of measuring devices to be used. Test the measuring devices to be certain how the devices work. The On-Ice Supervisors should meet in the ice area with the Hog-Line Official 20 minutes before the draw. This time is used to: 25

Introduce officials to each other. Alert officials with pacemakers or other heart monitor devices that radio transmissions may interfere with transmission. Remind Hog-Line Officials in non sensor handle events how to indicate a hogline violation. During the Game: The On-Ice Supervisors are to be summoned by a player during a game: To make ALL measurements Render decisions. The On-Ice Supervisor will speak with each skip privately and then make a decision firmly, fairly and quickly after informing the Chief Umpire of the situation and verifying the decision should there be controversy. Note violations: Dress code violations, sweeping violations, conduct and language, etc. Oversee the removal of the stone and the replacement of any displaced stones. Impose penalties. Log interventions into the Intervention Log At the conclusion of the Game: Check that the scorecards and scoreboards are posted correctly. Collect all signed score cards, timing records and other forms and returned to official s area or verify that they have been returned to the official s area. DISCUSS WITH THE CHIEF UMPIRE ANY OCCURRENCE THAT MIGHT MERIT ATTENTION IN FUTURE DRAWS. Make any pertinent notes regarding officials working on the draw, especially noting those who are doing a good job and who might be asked to work the final draws. Transfer Intervention Log information onto the Master Intervention Log At the end of the Competition: With your input, the Chief Umpire will prepare a report regarding officials with whom you worked. The report and any recommendations should be filed with the Chairman of the USCA Championships Committee. 26

Measuring Rocks There are five types of measurements an On-Ice Supervisor may perform: 1. In-Play decisions if a stone is in or out of play around the perimeter. 2. Free Guard Zone measurements to determine if a stone is in the house. 3. Back of house measurement to determine if a stone is in the house or out of play (must be directly on the center line) 4. Stone measurements at the completion of an end. 5. LSD measurements during pre-game practice. Officials are required to use the same general measuring procedures during each measurement. This is to add a level of consistency across the different types. Please review the procedures prior to starting a competition. Measuring In-Play, Free Guard Zone and Back of House Stones 1. To measure if a stone is in play at the back line, hog line or at the side line (if no dividers), the T-square or 90 degree measure should be used. If the stone is exactly at the center line in the back of the house and no stones are in the way, the six foot measure may be used. 2. To decide whether a stone is within the Free Guard Zone at the hog line, or at the tee line beside the house, umpires should use the T Square or 90 degree measure. 3. To decide if a stone is touching the house, the umpires should use the six foot measure. If not possible because of other stones in the house, the measure should be done visually. After a visual decision, that stone shall not be measured again unless it is moved. Measuring Stones 2 Stone Measure 1. After retrieving the measuring device, enter the house from the back with the measuring point (the part that goes in the center hole) in your right hand. This ensures a clockwise rotation and prevents backing into a stone. Prior to measuring, ask the acting skips, What have you already agreed on? It is important that teams are in agreement prior to the measurement. Make sure all the players are standing well away from the house area before starting. The acting skips are the only players who belong in the house area. Allow the person in charge of the house from each team to observe the measuremen. All others belong between the hog lines or on the backboards. 2. You will measure stones in a forward, clockwise direction. Place the end of the measuring device on the ice first then insert the point into the center hole. This should be done with the device between 90 and 180 degrees from the first stone to be measured. This allows you to place the device on the ice away from the stones to be measured. 27

3. As you approach the first stone, determine if any adjustments to the slide bar or the adjustable back base are needed and make them. 4. Measure the inside edge of the first stone (never measure the outside edge of the stone as stones have different diameters), leave it in place and remember the reading on the device. 5. Slowly move the device clockwise to the next stone, putting no downward pressure on the length rod. 6. Measure the second stone and make a decision as to which one is closer. Move the second stone either in or out depending on the result and point to the closer stone for spectators. It is acceptable to revisit the first stone and possibly even adjust the slide bar. Measuring Stones 3-Stone measure 1. After retrieving the measuring device, enter the house from the back with the measuring point in your right hand. 2. You will measure stones in a clockwise direction. Place the center point in the center hole and put the measuring device to the left of the odd-colored stone. 3. As you approach the odd-colored stone, determine if any adjustments are needed in the device and make them. 4. Measure the odd colored stone first and LEAVE IT IN PLACE. 5. Swing the device clockwise to the next stone and measure it. 6. Measured against the odd-colored stone, MOVE IT either in or out depending on the decision. Indicate with your hand the closer stone. 7. Move to the third stone and measure it. Again, move it in or out based on your decision. The first stone (odd-colored) will be your reference stone and should not be moved. In both situations it is acceptable to swing the device back to the first stone for a closer look. If stones cannot be determined by device, a blank end will result. This is very rare. If two or more stones are so close to the button that the device cannot be used, a decision must be made visually. Using the Six-Foot Measure 1. Enter the house from the back with the pointer in your right hand. 28

2. Place the six-foot pointer in the center hole and rest the device on the ice between 90 and 180 degrees from the first stone. 3. Slowly swing the device clockwise until it either contacts the stone or swings past it. Never throw the device at the stone as it may come out of the hole and displace the stone. It is possible for the six measure to touch a stone and still move across the inside edge. Be careful not to dislodge the stone as the measure moves past. If, during a free guard zone measure, another stone is in the six-foot path, a decision must be made visually. Using the T -Square The T-Square is a right-angle construction tool that allows an official to compare the edge of the stone and the out of play line. Since stones are oval shaped, the inside edge hangs over the running edge. This can create an illusion. Place the 90 degree measure against the inside edge. The base of the tool will be flat on the ice allowing you to get a closer look. Be careful not to leave a metal device on the ice for longer than a few moments, it may melt the surface. Last Stone Draw Shot Measure Use a tape measure or suitable device to measure the distance (in feet and inches) from the outermost edge of the stone (closest to the tee) to the center hole. Stones that do not touch the outermost edge of the outer ring are measured as 6 feet 1 inch. Stones that cover the center hole are measured as 0 inches. 29