Sports Officials and Referees

Nature of work

Sports officials and referees observe and enforce rules and regulations governing sporting events, athletic games and sports competitions. They work for national, provincial and local sporting commissions, organizations and leagues.

Job duties

Sports officials and referees:

• Officiate at sporting events or athletic competitions to maintain standards of play and to make sure that game rules and safety regulations are followed.
• Record time and keep scores during events or competitions.
• Judge the performance of competitors, award points, impose penalties and decide results.
• Gather scores and other athletic records.
• Create and maintain rapport with coaches, players and organizing committees.
• Verify credentials of athletes or animals engaged in sports or related special events and respond to written protests.

Sample job titles

• athletics judge
• clerk of the course - racetrack
• figure skating judge
• goal judge
• harness racing starter
• racetrack timer
• referee
• sports linesperson
• sports official
• umpire

Skills

• You should be determined, patient, and self-confident. You must be able to organize and plan activities as well as motivate and encourage others to perform at their best. Leadership and decision-making skills may be needed in coaching and training. Both spoken and written communication skills are essential for teaching and instructing. Good physical stamina and an interest in sports and physical fitness are also important.

Job requirements

• Sports officials need certification by and registration with a sport governing body or commission.
• Sports referees need to complete an officiating program offered by a sport governing body.

Other considerations

• Workers may work only part of the year and be unemployed in the off-season.

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Contacts

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