CFL coaches and officials reach common ground
Published on March 23, 2005 under Canadian Football League (CFL) News Release
Toronto, Ontario â It is rare that CFL coaches and officials agree on the way penalties are called but that's exactly what happened last weekend in Ottawa.
More than 25 coaches representing the nine CFL clubs met with CFL Director of Officiating George Black and six officials to develop a common understanding of penalty calls. The meeting, which coincided with the 2005 CFL Evaluation Camp, took place at Ottawa's Crowne Plaza Hotel on March 19, 2005.
The three-hour meeting focused on five of the most frequently called penalties: holding, illegal blocking, roughing the passer, illegal contact on an eligible receiver and pass interference. The meeting included video presentations by coaches and officials, open forum discussions and a question-and-answer session.
"We are working together to improve the game of Canadian football and understanding the rules," said Wally Buono, head coach and general manager of the B.C. Lions. "I thought this was very worthwhile and I think it's something we should do on a regular basis. As coaches, we need to do a better job of instructing our players about the rules and this discussion went a long way in helping that."
The coaches and officials left the meeting in agreement on the penalty call standards that will be used in the 2005 season.
"This was an extremely valuable exercise for our officials," said George Black, director of officiating for the CFL. "We were not only able to reach a common ground on certain penalty calls, but we established an excellent forum in which our officials and head coaches from across the League can work together to improve our great Canadian game. This was an important first step in creating consistency and a better understanding across the League on some key penalty and how they are called."
About the Canadian Football League
The Canadian Football League (CFL) operates in nine leading cities across Canada. Building on a strong past toward a stronger future, the CFL celebrates Canada's game with fans across the nation. The 93rd Grey Cup will be played in Vancouver, British Columbia on November 27, 2005. For additional information, visit www.cfl.ca.
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