Sports Official

Overview

Umpires, referees, and other sports officials preside over competitive athletic or sporting events to help maintain standards of play. They detect infractions and decide penalties according to the rules of the game. While officiating at sporting events, officials must anticipate play, position themselves to see the action, assess the situation, and identify violations of the rules. They may be required to attend training sessions before, during, and after the season to learn rule changes, review and evaluate performances, and improve officiating.

Officials work indoors and outdoors; those outdoors are exposed to all types of weather. They often work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

• Officiate sporting events, games, and competitions
• Judge performances in sporting competitions to determine a winner
• Inspect sports equipment and examine all participants to ensure safety
• Keep track of event times, starting or stopping play when necessary
• Signal participants and other officials when infractions occur or to regulate play or competition
• Settle claims of infractions or complaints by participants
• Enforce the rules of the game and assess penalties when necessary

• Communication skills - Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must have good communication skills because they inform athletes on the rules of the game, discuss infractions, and settle disputes.
• Decision-making skills - Officials must observe play, assess various situations, and often make split-second decisions.
• Good vision - Officials must have good vision to view infractions and identify violations during play. In some sports, such as diving or gymnastics, they must also observe an athlete’s form for imperfections.
• Physical stamina - Many officials are required to stand, walk, run, or squat for long periods during games and events.
• Teamwork - Officials may work in groups to officiate a game, requiring the ability to cooperate and reach mutual decisions.

One year of experience in supervision of recreation program activities or competitive sports; thorough knowledge of the rules of specific sports. Participation in sports is desired, but not required.