Question on devices for on field tracking of game and play clock

[sepatopten]

I am new to the Youth Football referee game and I am wondering if there is a specific watch that Linesman are using to track the game clock and play clock. Are there watches specifically made for Football? A make and model would be a great help. Thank you guys and gals.

[bossman72]

A regular digital watch has always been sufficient for me.
Doing the play clock with the new 40/25, the stopwatch function that counts up works the best since you won't have to reset them.
The count down timer works great for game clock.  I like this Armitron watch because it has the start and stop function on the same button. If you get a Timex watch, start and stop are on different buttons for whatever reason.

https://www.amazon.com/Armitron-Sport-40-8254ORG-Chronograph/dp/B006ZTJEOI/ref=pd_srecs_cs_241_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=ZZH3C3J8MT7NSDTRNXR2

I think the used to have watches a little more specific for timing, but I can't remember if they still make them.

[ilyazhito]

There are devices that are designed to time the 40/25 play clock. The two leading manufacturers are RefSmart and ReadyRef. Both devices are battery-operated packs that attach to your belt and vibrate to signal the 10 second warning (15 seconds in on the 25-second play clock, 30 seconds in on the 40-second play clock), the last 5 seconds, and for the RefSmart, 25 seconds left on the 40-second play clock. Both are great devices, but I prefer the ReadyRef because it has a cover and can be used in the rain. It also attaches more securely to my belt. As long as you have a spare 9V battery with you, you can easily deal with the times the ReadyRef turns on by accident.
https://ready-ref.com/store_timers/#football
https://purchaseofficials.com/products/ref-smart-universal-game-day-timer
Both devices are not cheap, but are very useful. I have used my ReadyRef for both football and lacrosse, and it is very reliable for both sports. I've had mine since 2015, and it's worked great so far.

[HLinNC]

Most of the Timex Ironman series and Casio's have countdown timer functions you can set for quarter lengths- 8, 10, or 12:00 min.  They are readily available at your friendly neighborhood Wal-mart.

 Linesmen do not usually time games.  That is for the LJ and Referee in 4 man or BJ and Referee in 5 man crews.

[Kalle]

There are also nice apps available for smart watches, eg. for Apple Watch there is a really nice PC app.

[Ralph Damren]

Welcome, Sepatopten, to our forum. I hope you find it both enjoyable and informative. Many of our youth programs in Maine use only 2-3 officials, so your duties may be expanded , but remember the action on the field is more important than action on the play clock. Hopefully, you will find this an enjoyable hobby and move up to junior HS and HS games as new officials are needed in every corner of our country. Please let us know of your successes.

Helpful hint : Delay of Game calls in youth league games also delays supper, unless abused, just let the kids play.