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Decision Making
One of the key characteristics of expert referees is that they make decisions
in an apparently effortless, intuitive manner.
Call what you see - what you didn't see didn't happen! It is better to skip a
call because you didn't actually see it happen than it is to make a call based
on circumstantial or third party evidence unless you were alerted by a fellow
official (umpire, linesperson).
Training Decision Making
• Simulation of games/sessions in structured exercises (video based/
real life)
• Learn to identify critical cues which requires simulation exercises to
train perception of pattern recognition
• Review prior experiences and identify where decisions were needed
• Novice referees should analyse situations of experienced referees
and decisions they took at certain times
Tips
• Know the rules
• Know the language of the sport
• Master the signals and employ them properly
• Understand the games rhythms and strategies
• Be in proper position
• Remain calm
• Concentrate and focus on essential elements
• Work closely with fellow officials
