Officiating
10
When officiating for young athletes aged 8–13 years, the main emphasis should be placed upon fair
play. The young athletes should attempt to compete by the rules but if mistakes are made it is better
for the official to give penalties rather than disqualification. Officials for this age group must therefore
know the rules to the event and be able to interpret the rules to fit the situation. It is a good idea to
provide encouragement for the young athletes whilst they are competing, as long as this is given
consistently to all. It must be made quite clear at this point that officiating for this age group and
officiating for older athletes will require the application of different skills and qualities.
What you will need as an official:
• Ability to ensure safety at all times
• Ability to assess and eliminate risk
• Enthusiasm
• Knowledge of rules of the event
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Personal Equipment
Pen, Clipboard, Stopwatch (if timekeeping), Appropriate Clothing, Flat Shoes, Fingerless Gloves
and Waterproofs (for outdoor use), Rule Book and plenty of liquid refreshment.
• Awareness of emergency protocol in the event of an accident or injury.
Officiating can be a very enjoyable experience and many people start as a result of their child's
involvement in athletics. It can prove to be very rewarding and a life-long hobby but it is very
important to gain the appropriate qualifications.
10.1 Introduction to Officiating - Assisting
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