In the Three P's of Pregame, Presentation, and Positioning, the importance of the third is fairly obvious. But a number of referees, especially young ones, don't give it proper due.

Positioning is a critical factor in match control for the referee and assistant referees. By working hard to be close to the play, officials can defuse potential flare-ups with their presence and can sell calls on the strength of being in the right place at the right time.

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