One of the responsibilities of an umpire is to report reportable offences. It is important that the umpire carries out the correct procedures at the time of the report and following the match in terms of completing the paperwork. Attendance and performance at the tribunal is also an important element in the total reporting procedure.

Reporting Procedure (Read Laws 16.8, 16.9, 16.10 & 16.11)

On Ground

• Identify the reportable incident.
• Stop the match, blow time on.
• Advise the offender and the player offended against at the time of the incident.
• Make a brief note at the time of the report, e.g. Players' numbers, offence, location.
• Blow time off and recommence the match.

Post Match:

• Compile detailed notes at half-time or end of the match, whichever is appropriate.
• Complete the report form, taking care to complete it accurately. (Have a colleague check it).
• Sign each copy of the report form.
• Distribute copies of the report form to a representative from each club who should wait upon the umpire after the match. (Usually the top copy goes to the League, a copy to each club, umpire keeps a copy).
• Never discuss the report with players or officials after the match.

At Tribunal:

• Arrive at the tribunal in plenty of time, looking neat and well presented. Remember the image.
• When giving evidence, be positive, forthright and honest. Say exactly what you saw and/or heard when presenting your evidence or in response to questions about the incident.
• Avoid vague responses or comments like "might have been", "possibly", "er, maybe" etc.
• At the completion of the hearing your job is finished. The resulting outcome is a matter for the tribunal, not the umpire.
• Always be polite prior to, during, and after the hearing.

Relevant Laws:

Laws 16.8 to 16.9