Pass Interference
Pass Interference is a key rule violation in football that officials must monitor and enforce. It occurs when a player significantly disrupts another player's ability to catch a thrown ball. This is one of the most important and challenging calls that football officials need to make, as it can greatly impact the game. The rule applies differently in different leagues (like NFL, NCAA, or high school football), but the basic concept remains similar. Understanding and correctly identifying pass interference is a crucial skill for football officials, similar to how basketball officials must understand charging fouls or baseball umpires must know the strike zone.
Examples in Resumes
Accurately called Pass Interference violations in over 200 high school football games
Conducted training sessions for junior officials on identifying Pass Interference scenarios
Received recognition for consistent Pass Interference judgment in regional championship games
Typical job title: "Football Officials"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Football Officials
Professional Organizations
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle controversial pass interference calls in high-pressure situations?
Expected Answer: A senior official should discuss maintaining composure, using proper mechanics, being confident in their call, and effectively communicating with coaches and players. They should also mention the importance of proper positioning and teamwork with other officials.
Q: How would you train new officials to recognize pass interference?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching ability by explaining how they break down the elements of pass interference, use video examples, conduct on-field demonstrations, and emphasize the difference between incidental contact and actual interference.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key differences between offensive and defensive pass interference?
Expected Answer: Should be able to clearly explain how offensive and defensive pass interference differ, including specific examples and common scenarios they've encountered in games.
Q: How do you determine if contact is incidental versus interference?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of evaluating player contact, including watching for playing the ball versus playing the opponent, and understanding when contact significantly impacts the play.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic elements of pass interference?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that pass interference involves contact that significantly hinders a player's ability to catch a legal forward pass, and understand when the ball must be catchable.
Q: What is your process for positioning yourself to make pass interference calls?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic officiating mechanics, proper positioning relative to the play, and awareness of their area of responsibility on the field.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of pass interference rules
- Proper positioning for pass plays
- Basic game mechanics
- Communication with other officials
Mid (2-5 years)
- Consistent judgment of interference vs. incidental contact
- Effective communication with coaches
- Handling challenging game situations
- Knowledge of rule differences across levels
Senior (5+ years)
- Training and mentoring new officials
- Managing high-pressure situations
- Advanced understanding of all rules
- Leadership in officiating crews
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic pass interference rules
- Poor positioning during pass plays
- Inconsistent judgment on similar plays
- Inability to handle coach and player interactions professionally
- Lack of knowledge about rule differences between leagues
Related Terms
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