Hanging Judge | Advice for refs on how to cope during the Covid-19 pandemic

We are living in unprecedented times. Never has most of the population witnessed such restrictions on their movements.

The Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic is being described by some as a war-like situation.

In many ways, that’s true, but, as one journalist put it last week, like all wars, this will end and we will get back to normal – whatever that is.

So, what do we as referees do to keep ourselves fit and ready for the resumption of the now-stalled season?

This week, government put a 21-day lockdown on people, businesses (except essential ones) and services.

This is in line with many other countries, and I think it’s the correct move. It will affect many millions of people around South Africa, but it is necessary.

Match officials are a hardy bunch – they fulfil their duties to the best of their ability in the face of sometimes insurmountable odds. Some train in groups, which will now be curtailed to a large degree.

Many will train on their own, as I used to do during my time of activity on the field of play. Sadly, getting together in groups will have to cease, but that doesn’t mean the guys can’t keep fit using their own regime.

Do your own exercises and maintain a level of fitness that is required for when the season resumes in the months ahead, even though it will be difficult.

Maintaining the now recognised 2m distance from others is definitely possible. How can this be done? Crossing over to the other side of the street when approaching someone is one way, and there are others.

I’m not sure if government is envisaging people staying home in complete isolation, but if it is, then it is still possible to train at home within the confines of your living room.

For example, running on the spot, using a home bicycle, if you’re lucky enough to afford one, and stretching exercises.

Nothing is impossible.

Remember, when the leagues resume, there won’t be time for preseason training. It’ll be go, go, go, because there’ll be pressure to try to complete the season literally just before the next one starts.

The winter holiday in the southern hemisphere will be used to complete fixtures before the 2020/21 season kicks off in August/September, so there is be no time to sit back, relax and stuff your face with all kinds of tempting goodies.

In the UK, there’s talk of a determination to complete the current season, even if it runs into June or July.

With the pressure of the Euros now off, leagues have a perfect window of opportunity to finalise their fixtures and prepare for the next season.

There is still some confusion regarding the European Champions League and the Europa League, and that is still to be worked out.

But, wherever there’s a league or a cup competition, there’ll be a need for referees and assistant referees, and so it’s vital that we maintain our level of fitness to meet that demand.

This virus will pass and many, many will come out of it fit and well. Sadly, a minority will not be so lucky, but we must keep positive and keep going.

As a psychologist, I’m regularly asked to provide counselling and advice, and I always promote the positive side of things.

We have to be positive and look forward. That’s why God put our eyes in the front of our heads and not at the back.

I once wrote the following: @WiseWordsfromaLearnedMan – Don’t look back to linger, look back to learn.

Stay safe and stay well, and keep your distance.

Please feel free to make comments or ask questions.

Happy whistling!

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