Professional Development
CHESAPEAKE REGION VOLLEYBALL ASSOCIATION
REFEREE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

www.vball-life.org/officials/referees.htm

Dare To Be Great
Corny Galdones, November 1997

To an average fan there is not much distinction between a good referee and a great referee.  But there are many intangibles that separate the two.

Good.		Great.
Praised.		Respected.
Administrates.		Facilitates.
Knows and applies the rules.		Understands the spirit of the rules.
Knows what to call.		Knows what NOT to call.
Knows the game.		Knows how the game is played.
Honest, ethical, reliable , industrious		Beyond reproach in character
Avoids improprietry		Keeps in mind perception is reality
Communications skills.		People skills.
Gives best effort.		Knows the match is huge to someone.
Enjoys officiating.		Makes the competition enjoyable.
Properly dressed and groomed.		Spic-and-span.
Takes care of business.		Pays attention to the business at hand.
Proper mechanics.		Polished mechanics.
Interacts with work crew.		Works as a team, not as a one-man band.
Hustles.		Hustles without looking rushed.
Competitors do not violate the rules.		Neither team gains an unfair advantage.
Correct and impartial judgment.		Unquestioned integrity.
Consistent in calling.		Not afraid to make the tough call.
Confident in decisions.		Looks and acts confident (but not cocky).
Composed.		Has calming effect on everyone.
Controls misconduct.		Prevents misconduct.
Minimizes mistakes.		Does not make the same mistakes.
Remembered for performance of match.		Not remembered at all.
Accepts corrective criticism.		Objectively evaluates weaknesses.
Works to improve self.		Helps fellow officials improve.

There is a fine line between a good referee and a great referee.  Understanding and overcoming the subtle differences between the two will help a good referee become a great referee.