4.1 Officiating techniques
The eyes of the officials should constantly be roving, trying to cover the whole floor,
always knowing where all ten (10) players are located.
Depending on the position of the ball, one (1) official must be looking at the action away
from it.
Knowing where the ball is located is not the same as watching the ball.
Whenever both officials blow their whistles simultaneously, the one who is nearest to
the play will normally take the call. Establishing eye contact with each other will help
to avoid two (2) different calls. Whenever both officials blow their whistles for a foul,
they should not make any immediate movement. Each official must be aware of his
partner, just in case he has committed himself to another decision.
There is no distinction between the referee and the umpire when it comes to taking
decisions on fouls or violations. Younger or less experienced officials have just as
much authority to take decisions as their veteran colleagues. Cooperation and
teamwork is vital. They set their standards by accepting their responsibilities.