Overview
This document provides an overview of the Head Referee volunteer role, including expectations, skills required, and recommended training. Head Referee volunteers observe matches, identify rule violations, and enforce the game manuals.
Level: Advanced
Physical Activity: High (Constant standing or walking)
Skills Needed:
- Previous referee experience is required
- Apply knowledge of the game and rules
- Lead a team effectively
- Interact positively with students and coaches
- Arbitrate disputes fairly and quickly deescalating arguments
- Certification is required
Responsibilities
- Ensure the field is properly set up and observe all matches.
- Identify rule violations and caution teams to avoid violations.
- Enforce the game manual as written.
- Answer score or rule questions from student Drive Team members.
- Ensure matches are running on schedule.
- Train Scorekeeper Referees as needed.
Training & Preparation
- Get familiar with how matches are run, and serve as a Scorekeeping Referee at one or more events.
- Read the official game manual and pay special attention to Section 2 – The Game.
- Complete the VIQRC Head Referee Certification (minimum age 16) and/or the V5RC Head Referee Certification (minimum age 20). If you'll be refereeing skills or head-to-head matches for VURC and/or VAIRC teams, you must also complete the VURC Head Referee Certification (minimum age 20).
- Review the additional Referee training materials available at REC Foundation > Volunteers.
On Event Day
Dress Code: Wear comfortable team-neutral clothing that is appropriate for a school related event, closed toe shoes, and a Referee or volunteer shirt (if provided).
Arrival: Sign in at Volunteer Check-in, then report to the competition field area to meet with and train the Scorekeeper Referees.
Location: Report to your assigned field area 30 minutes before practice and qualifying matches begin. Head Referees are positioned alongside the game fields so that you can clearly see the field and student Drivers, but without obstructing the view of the audience during the match.
Review: Practice watching matches online or observing practice matches at the event, if available. Review Referee training materials and the game manual the day prior to the event. Ensure you have a copy of the current Game Manual (electronic or paper) on the event day.
Supplies: Clipboard, pen or pencil, and printed or electronic copy of the appropriate game manual.