How do I sanction misconduct, and what is the sanction scale?

Question

Accepted Answer

Minor misconduct (Rule 21.1) is not sanctioned. The first referee works in two stages: Stage 1 is a verbal warning through the game captain (no card, nothing on the score sheet). Stage 2 is a yellow card to the team member, which is not a sanction but a symbol that the team has reached the sanctioning level. It is recorded on the score sheet with no immediate consequences. The first referee may go straight to Stage 2. Once the yellow card is shown, any further misconduct by any member of that team is sanctioned with at least a red card. Misconduct leading to sanctions (Rule 21.2) has three categories: rude conduct, offensive conduct and aggression. Scale (Rule 21.3): Penalty: the first rude conduct by any team member in the match. A point and service to the opponent (red card). Expulsion: the first offensive conduct, or the second rude conduct by the same team member. The person cannot take part for the rest of the set, is substituted legally or exceptionally if on court, and goes to the dressing room until the set ends. Disqualification: the first physical attack or implied or threatened aggression, a second offensive conduct, or the third rude conduct by the same team member. The person is substituted if on court and leaves for the rest of the match. Misconduct sanctions are individual, last the whole match and are recorded on the score sheet. Repeat misconduct by the same person is sanctioned progressively. Expulsion or disqualification for offensive conduct or aggression needs no previous sanction. Misconduct before or between sets is sanctioned by the same scale and applies in the next set. Volleyball Canada specifics: With no team dressing room, an expelled or disqualified person must leave the Competition Control Area, including any viewing spaces. A disqualified participant may not return to the Competition Area after the match ends. It is recommended that a first referee who expels or disqualifies a player or coach submits a separate report to the PTA. Direct unsportsmanlike communication or behaviour from team members on the bench towards the referees results in at least a Stage 2 warning, and may result in a penalty, expulsion or disqualification. Sources: Volleyball Canada Rulebook 2026-27, rule 21; 2026-27 Referee Guidelines and Instructions, rules 20 and 21.