Umpires and Referees

Previous experience as a sports official is highly recommended. Experience is gained by working as an umpire, referee, or other type of sports official in high school and other amateur leagues. Many umpires and referees obtain knowledge of the rules of their particular sport by competing in that sport at the professional and/or amateur levels.

Different sports have different physical requirements. For example, hockey officials need to be accomplished skaters and should be in excellent health. General physical requirements include good vision, to some extent good hearing, and good physical health.

Sports officials must have good communication skills and the ability to make split-second decisions. Many calls that an official makes will be unpopular, so they need courage to make the correct call and confidence to stand behind their judgment. An easily intimidated official won't last long in any league, which is why the ability to remain cool under pressure is important. Often, games are played in front of large crowds, and fans can be vocal in their criticism of players, coaches, and especially sports officials.

Umpires and referees must also have a thorough understanding of the sport they officiate. They need to be informed about changes to the rules. Sports officials keep informed by attending clinics and seminars sponsored by professional associations.