Frequently asked questions
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I keep getting pushed back out of the neutral snitch zone or out of bounds. I can't control that if my priority is to avoid getting caught.
While repeated intentional violations of handicaps are grounds for replacement of the snitch runner, you are required to make your way back to the neutral zone of play whenever possible and not engaged with seekers. Being too far in either direction of the pitch may cause a bias issue. As long as you make a distinctive effort to return, the ref should not fault you. Refer to USQ Rulebook 15 Sect 8.2.3 for specifics.
Who counts me back into play when I'm downed?
The LAR counts you back into play. Many snitches are used to counting themselves back into play but this could lead to issues later. This is to ensure that both you and the party adjudicating your time on pitch are ready to proceed. It also gives time to assess potential injuries or short issues to avoid another unnecessary downed runner or stoppage. Refer to USQ Rulebook 15 Sect 8.4.3.
If I'm down to one hand, what do I do with that hand?
When reaching the 25 minute mark of the game, a snitch is required to use only one hand. This hand should be placed in a way that doesn't put the snitch runner at risk of injury and does not obstruct or interact with the tail or other snitch garb in any way. If this means pinning it to your side, behind your back, or across your body, so be it. Do not place your hand in the back of your shorts near the tail, as this could interfere with capture or short alignment. It also should not be restrained in any way that would not allow the runner to catch themselves if they were falling or otherwise in danger.
What is the Tier System?
Snitches are ranked based on their skill level by proctors and members of Snitch Team from a scale of 1-5. This helps Tournament Directors assign snitches to games. You can learn more here.
Do snitches get paid?
Certified Tier 5 and higher snitches are paid $10/game at USQ official events.
How do I get assigned to a game?
Check USQ's Events page and join USQ Regional Facebook groups to stay aware of upcoming tournaments. From there you can either fill out volunteer interest forms, or contact the Tournament Director directly. They will be the one scheduling you for games, depending on your availability, tier level and how many other snitches sign up. Follow up with your Regional Coordinator for more details!
As a snitch, am I a player? A ref? Just a ball?
Snitches are fair and impartial officials whose role is to prevent the snitch tail from being caught by either team's seeker for as long as possible.
What kind of seeker on snitch contact is allowed and not allowed?
Refer to section 6.3.1 in the rulebook for details
What about contact not explicitly barred in the rulebook?
Beyond the explicit fouls in the rulebook, the seeker physically impeding a snitch does not invalidate their catch unless the contact contributed to the catch.
If there's a player or equipment emergency, what do I do?
Take a knee and inform your LAR.
If I never get caught, does the game never end?
The longer a snitch stays on the pitch, the more handicaps they are given. After 5 minutes of snitching, you are then limited to using only 1 arm. After another 5 minutes, your location is limited to 1.5 yards around the midline ball position furthest from the scorekeeper. These handicaps make it more likely that you will be caught over time. This, along with the strict timelines that tournaments operate under, ensure that you will be caught eventually.
What if I disagree with a call that a ref makes?
Your perspective is important on the pitch, both leading up to and while confirming the snitch catch. While you are on the pitch, you are welcome to ask your LAR questions as long as it does not detract from either of your performances. While you should defer to the LAR on most calls, if there is a disagreement then they should discuss with the HR. While discussing a possible snitch catch, your LAR and HR should be asking you detailed questions regarding impediment and timing. All final calls will defer to the HR.
If I end up influencing play somehow, either by accidentally running into a player or tripping over a ball, what happens?
The pitch can get busy! It's important to stay mindful and aware of all refs and players while snitching. As long as you are not purposefully impacting play, there is a "no harm no foul" ruling applied, should you accidentally run into a player or a ball.