How to run a proper diagonal system while officiating a soccer game

Running the diagonal system on a soccer game with three officials is important. If you are out of position, the game can get out of control.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• plenty of water

1. Before starting game, position yourself to where the ball is between you and your lead assistant referee. (lead assistant referee is the official on line who has ball coming towards them).

2. Stay within 10-15 yards of ball while keeping ball between you and lead assistant referee.

3. Try to stay out of the center circle while running from N.E. corner flag to S.W. corner flag. (the corner flags that assistant referees are not by).

Tips & Warnings

• Stretch before the game. Observe player tactics so as to see where play and the ball is heading.
• Try and stay out of players way. A ball at regulated pressure can hurt you if a player with strength and skill kicks it.

Resources

• ussf procedures guide
• ussoccer.com