umpiring signals

Updated on November 20, 2008

Here is the categorized list and description of the signals used by umpires from the Rules of Hockey. Where possible, videos are provided to demonstrate the signal.

Timing:

1. start time: turn towards the other umpire with one arm straight up in the air [video-start_time]
2. stop time: turn towards the other umpire and cross fully-extended arms at the wrists above the head [video-stop_time]
3. two minutes of play remaining: raise both hands straight up in the air with pointing index fingers [video-two_minutes]
4. one minute of play remaining: raise one hand straight up in the air with pointing index finger [video-one_minute]

Ball out of play:

• ball out of play over the side-line: indicate the direction with one arm raised horizontally [video-sidein]
• ball out of play over the back-line by an attacker: face the center of the field and extend both arms horizontally sideways [video-hitout]
• ball out of play over the back-line unintentionally by a defender: point one arm at the corner flag nearest where the ball crossed the back-line [video-longcorner]

Bully:

Move hands alternately up and down in front of the body with palms facing each other [video-bully]

Goal scored:

Point both arms horizontally towards the center of the field [video-goal]

Conduct of play:

• dangerous play: place one forearm diagonally across the chest
• misconduct and/or bad temper: stop play and make a calming movement by moving both hands slowly up and down, palms downward, in front of the body
• kick: slightly raise a leg and touch it near the foot or ankle with the hand
• raised ball: hold palms facing each other horizontally in front of the body, with one palm approximately 150 mm above the other
• obstruction: hold crossed forearms in front of the chest
• third party or shadow obstruction: alternately open and close crossed forearms in front of the chest
• stick obstruction: hold one arm out and downwards in front of the body half-way between vertical and horizontal; touch the forearm with the other hand
• 5 meters distance: extend one arm straight up in the air showing an open hand with all fingers extended