Scenario Reffing: Referee - Definition, Types & Associated Responsibilites :

[Grendel]

Below is a work in progress I'm doing off line. I would love to have other's input. This not complete in any stretch of imagination and is not necessarily in the final topic order.

Referee : Definition, Types & Associated Responsibilites :

What is a referee or judge?

• A Referee or Judge is a person who has the inherent authority to make decisions about proper play and conduct in paintball. A Referee is to be neutral to the outcome of an event and their primary concern should be based on the safety of the players and spectators involved.

What types of referees are there in a scenario?

1. Head Judge
2. Base Referee
3. Mission Referee
4. Roving Referee
5. Chrono Referee

What are the specific responsibilities of these types?

• Head Judge - has the responsibility to coordinate the events referee staff to ensure adequate coverage for the smooth and safe event. Is responsible for making decisions for events not specifically covered in the written rules.
  
• Base Referee - has responsibility to coordinate with the "Games Master"/Producer and each team’s general to ensure the game is running smoothly and on time. In addition a Base Referee has the responsibility to ensure the spirit of the game/event is followed and to be a resource for the players to understand and complete missions.
  
• Mission Referee - has the responsibility to ensure the spirit of the game/event is followed and to be a resource for the players to understand and complete missions. Secondary they have the same authority and responsibility of a roving referee.
  
• Roving Referee - has the responsibility and authority to ensure a safe and fairly run game is run by the published rules. Is responsible for interpreting the written rules with the intent on maintaining the spirit of the written rules in any given situation.
  
• Chrono Referee - has the responsibility and authority to ensure that all equipment entering or on the field meet all the requirements dictated by the published rules.

What are the responsibilities of a Referee in relationship to a scenario/big game?

• This is both very simple but not necessarily easy to do. A referee has the responsibility:

1. To use good sound judgment to ensure the safe, unbiased and unobtrusive calls are made that conform to the established rules.
2. If there is a conflict between those three things [safe, unbiased, and unobtrusive] when making a call always default to the safety call over the other two.
3. Next make sure your call is unbiased to the outcome of the game. A Referee is to be neutral to the outcome of the game and other than mediating and enforcing the games rules, he should have no effect on the ultimate outcome.
4. Lastly make your calls as unobtrusive as possible. By make firm and definite calls where necessary and staying out of the way of the continuing game you minimize unnecessary obstruction to the flow of the game.

How does a referee handle those things that are not specifically addressed by the rules?

• A referee handles this by a thorough understanding of the rules and by understanding and interpreting the “Spirit of the Game” as the Producer is trying to create in context of the application of those rules.

1. No one can anticipate what all of the creative ideas players can come up with in the pursuit of winning the game. As a referee you are going to have to make interpretations of those rules to make a judgment on these creative ideas. It is very important for you as a referee to not only know the specific rules of the game but also understand what the scenario is the producer is creating and make your judgments on these novel ideas by taking in account the “Spirit of the Game”.
2. Remember just because there isn’t a rule not allowing it does not mean it should be done.

How should a referee interact with the players, other referees, owners, parents, producers…etc?

• As a referee you are a representative of the field and the game producer. You are to be above any pettiness that can come up at games. You are in the eyes of the players held to a higher standard and you need to reflect this:

1. Always be calm and courteous. It does not matter what the actions of the person you are dealing with you should always maintain appropriate decorum. Many times by you being calm and courteous you will actually defuse the situation.
2. Pay attention when someone is talking to you or asking questions. Nothing gets peoples dander up faster than when they think they are being ignored. If there is something that requires your attention other than the person/s talking to you, politely excuse yourself with a short indication of why. Do not just turn your back and run/walk off.
3. Parents can be flaky when it comes to their kids. I’m a parent and I’m sure I’ve flaked out over my daughter before. Be understanding of their concerns and explain things in detail to them when asked questions. Without Mom and Dad little Janie or Johnnie will not be coming back next time.
4. If you have any doubts about how things are supposed to get clarification. Let the people who you can not answer their questions know that you do not have a good answer for them but you are going to those who do have and answer for their question. Then get back to them with the answers when you find out. The head referee, producer and the owners of the field are at the top of the food chain. Let them deal with these issues as they arise