It is remarkable to think that the "technical area" was only introduced back in 1994. Prior to this date managers were not even allowed to coach from the sidelines. Within 12 months the extra pressure they caused to linesmen meant the authorities were forced to introduce a "fourth" official. This may have been fine in the professional game but of course there could be no such luxury within the amateur game.

1994: The technical area is introduced into the Laws of the Game
1995: Fourth Official introduced
1996: Linesmen are renamed Assistant Referees.

Sussex County Football League rule 8.22.2 states...

"Only one person at a time has the authority to convey tactical instructions to the players during the match. This person shall be the team manager or the team coach. He is allowed to move to the edge of the technical area to issue instructions to his team but then return to his position on the bench immediately after giving these instructions".

It is a difficult enough job as it is refereeing, so how can we best manage the bench and technical areas in the hope that they will not cause us too much aggravation? We talked to both Alan Stringer and Paul Saunders both level 4 assessors and Licensed FA Instructors, they gave us some practical advise to all referees and assistant referees operating in Senior Football.

We asked them first how we would best approach a game?
Alan Stringer, "One of the things that I advocate is that the assistant referee's have a plan. When as a team you walk the field of play, get the assistant who is responsible for the "dug outs" to analyse the position of each bench. Are they close or far apart? Which side of the half way line are they? What seating arrangement do they have? Are they benches or individual seats, fixed or moveable? Are they clear or semi-enclosed? Ask these questions and you can then perhaps figure out how the occupants are likely to behave"

Paul Saunders, " At the exchange of team sheets the Referee should clearly state his/her requirements to managers and introduce both assistants by name. It would help if the bench side assistant noted the name of senior occupant (manager) and before the start of match then he would introduce himself and enforce the message given by Referee prior to the start of the game. Indeed the match would not start until all occupants conformed".

Alan agrees with Paul, "Yes tell the dug outs what you want from them, don't let them guess. Give specific instructions and adhere to them".

What happens if during the game the benches do not conform?
Alan Stringer, "It is most important for an assistant referee to remain calm and be polite, this is very disarming and should a confrontation occur it puts the transgressor on the back foot. As an assistant referee do not get the referee involved unless it becomes too much and I would suggest that if the referee was to be called over it is to remove and not discuss. I general offer this advice, ASK (maybe twice) TELL (once) REPORT (full or halftime) REFEREE as last resort".

Paul Saunders, " At an opportune moment the assistant reminds the individual of their responsibility. If there continues to be issues ask the senior occupant to resolve. If problems persist follow Referees’ instructions, this could be – During a stoppage inform the Referee – Ignore until end of half and advise Referee so that the matter can be reported. If the referee is to report a club for a breach of league rules I'd make every effort to advise the relevant club secretary before leaving the ground. But always report acts of misconduct to the appropriate authorities. Remember it is easier to make the stand before the match rather than during it. If occupants know what is expected from the Referee, they will expect the assistant to deal with it".

I'd like to thank Alan and Paul for their very helpful advice.