Airsoft Action 04 - Xmas 2011 | Page 95

Communication MARSHALS This is as important in airsoft as it is in any other area of human endeavour. Failure to communicate clearly can ruin a game, or even a whole day of airsoft. Marshals need to ensure that they give players clear instructions and guidance at all times. They also need to be prepared to take action when communication errors occur. As airsoft has evolved and personal radios have become more common, so has the role of the marshal. Just because a player owns a personal radio does not mean they know how to use it effectively, and marshals can remedy this by correctly advising on the use of radios. Ian enhances this further by adding flexibility into the mix. If the games that he planned for an event are not suitable, whether it be due to reduced player numbers or adverse weather conditions, he is always ready to change them to suit the conditions. However, the most important factor to take into account when it comes to planning is the human factor – when humans are involved then be sure that if something can go wrong it will, so learn from it and adapt. Planning/logistics Human behaviour: patience Any airsoft site is only as good as the games that are provided. A site that sticks to the same old games, week in week out, is destined to lose players to sites that adapt and change. At LAC I have witnessed an extensive play book that is always being adapted, and I have to admit that I did not display much patience as a player. With the experience of marshalling I have now learnt to be far more patient with other players. When a player has done something wrong they will learn more if you take the time to help them understand www.airsoftactionmagazine.com 095