Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials

Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to maintain standards of play and to ensure that game rules are observed.

Signal participants or other officials to make them aware of infractions or to otherwise regulate play or competition.

Inspect sporting equipment and/or examine participants in order to ensure compliance with event and safety regulations.

Keep track of event times, including race times and elapsed time during game segments, starting or stopping play when necessary.

Judge performances in sporting competitions in order to award points, impose scoring penalties, and determine results.

Start races and competitions.

Resolve claims of rule infractions or complaints by participants and assess any necessary penalties, according to regulations.

Confer with other sporting officials, coaches, players, and facility managers in order to provide information, coordinate activities, and discuss problems.

Direct participants to assigned areas such as starting blocks or penalty areas.

Verify scoring calculations before competition winners are announced.

Compile scores and other athletic records.

Report to regulating organizations regarding sporting activities, complaints made, and actions taken or needed such as fines or other disciplinary actions.

Verify credentials of participants in sporting events, and make other qualifying determinations such as starting order or handicap number.

Teach and explain the rules and regulations governing a specific sport.

Research and study players and teams in order to anticipate issues that might arise in future engagements.

Inspect game sites for compliance with regulations or safety requirements.