Referee

From ArticleWorld

The referee is the individual that makes the decisions during sporting events about play. They are also called umpires, judges or linesmen. The term referee originated in soccer. Before the referee there was consultation between team captains in order to resolve disputes. This evolved into teams bringing their umpires to the game but they were usually partial to the team they came from. This led to the evolution of the referee. The referee was a neutral official who arbitrated when decisions could not be made otherwise.

Duties

The referee in any game is charged with the execution of many duties. These include duties such as the enforcement of the laws of the game, record and timekeeping, ensuring only authorized persons are on the field, deciding on ball fitness and restarting the match after stoppage. Some other duties include checking that the equipment being used is allowed and the reporting of match particulars to the authoritative body.

The match is controlled by the referee in collaboration with the assistants. The assistants play an important role as they can determine the outcome of some debates as they may have seen the situation but the referee did not. It is also required that referees act to put a stop to inappropriate behavior during the game by punishing serious offences made by repeat offenders.

Powers

Powers given to referees include the use of their discretionary power in giving advantage to the offended team in a match. They may also suspend or end a game under circumstances such as poor weather conditions. They have the power to remove players from matches if they a guilty of serious offences or caution them for lesser offences. The game is stopped by the referee in cases of injury that is serious and allowed to continue for minor injuries.