Scenario Reffing : 1 Hour Before the Game

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Scenario Reffing : 1 Hour Before the Game
By SCPaintballer01
Jan 21.2008


1 hour before the game is probably the most nerve wreaking part of the entire event because it's the point where players are still registering, markers are being chronograph, tanks and makers are being filled and tested, and everything is mass chaos to a degree. Organized chaos...exactly. As a referee, you'll probably be assigned to 1 of a few of the spots I just mentioned: registration table, the fill station, preparing guns, and then the general "roaming ref" who is there to answer any questions the players might have about the game or the field.

It is YOUR job to stick to that position, even though it may suck and be so boring you're wanting to rip your eyes out, that really doesnt matter. You're only job here is to get the players in and out quickly, or soon you'll have many angry players, wondering why the line to the chronograph is so long, and this could lead to players walking on the field without getting their marker checked. So just continue your job until the very end.

A note to fields that fill co2 without push button stations- PLEASE, invest in a 3$ pair of gloves from any department store for your guys that run the fill stations. As we all know, co2 is extremely cold and filling for hours can seriously hurt the hands of your staff.
A note to referees who fill: if the field doesnt provide you with gloves, bring your own or a cloth towel of some sort. You'll thank me later.

The hardest part of this time is just keeping your cool because it is not too early for temperatures to flare and the last thing your field needs is a situation before the game starts. Dont be a flame to the fire.

Also, take this time before the game to go over any last minuet stuff- the promoter and head ref should walk the field one last time to ensure everything is where it needs to be, all radios should be checked and set to the right frequency ahead of time. You should also make sure you're camel back or water bottles are filled at this time so you can go ahead and get on the field a few minuets before the first insertion.

Before the game actually starts the head ref, field owner and promoter should hold a brief staff meeting where everybody can go over last min. details and any questions can be answered. The number one important part of this meeting is- if you have questions, ASK them! No question is a bad question (that doesnt mean you wont get a stupid answer or two). Also, this is a little later in the process, but Id suggest that during this meeting the staff goes over all the rules of the field and of the first few missions so that the beginning of the game runs smooth as silk and ensures the players are having a great time.

By now, you've got about 15 min left- that'll be covered NEXT chapter.

"Play fast, play safe, and have fun." - Very general paintball post briefing saying. Remember it's you're job to ensure all of that and my personal tag for referees

"Make it play fast, safe, fun and be consistent"