This lecture outlines the key attributes and best practices for wrestling referees, emphasizing the importance of consistency, confidence, rule knowledge, judgment, humility, and fitness. It also covers pre-match preparation, effective communication between officials, and the use of tools like Zebra for managing assignments. The goal is to ensure referees maintain respect and credibility while making accurate and decisive calls to benefit the athletes.
## Takeaways
1. The organization has 450 referees, but only 120 are active.
2. Consistency is crucial for referees to gain respect from coaches, crowds, and wrestlers.
3. Confidence is essential for referees, but it should not be confused with arrogance.
4. Knowledge of the rules is fundamental for referees.
5. Strong judgment is important and can be developed by watching high-quality referees.
6. Humility is valued by coaches and fans over arrogance.
7. Making split-second decisions is a key skill for referees.
8. Good mechanics differentiate a good referee from a great one.
9. Referees should be fit to handle long seasons and tournaments.
10. Referees should keep their calendars up to date and communicate with schools before matches.
## Highlights
- ` "If you're a referee that's arrogant, and then you have the same match called by a guy that's humble, humble will always win in the coaches' and fans' hearts." `
- ` "Sign the book and get the hell out of here." `
- ` "As officials, we all do this because we believe in really wanting to get it right for the kids." `
## Chapters & Topics
### Consistency
> Consistency in officiating is crucial for maintaining respect and credibility.
* **Keypoints**
* Consistency in calls throughout the match is essential.
* Inconsistent calls can lead to loss of respect from coaches, crowds, and wrestlers.
### Confidence
> Confidence is necessary for referees to perform effectively.
* **Keypoints**
* Confidence should not be mistaken for arrogance.
* Confidence helps in making decisive calls.
### Knowledge of Rules
> A thorough understanding of the rules is fundamental for referees.
* **Keypoints**
* Knowledge of the rule book is essential.
* Lack of knowledge can lead to mistakes.
### Judgment
> Strong judgment is a key attribute for referees.
* **Keypoints**
* Judgment can be improved by watching high-quality referees.
* Judgment is often inherent but can be developed.
### Humility
> Humility is valued over arrogance in referees.
* **Keypoints**
* Humble referees are preferred by coaches and fans.
* Arrogance can undermine a referee's credibility.
### Split-Second Decisions
> The ability to make split-second decisions is crucial for referees.
* **Keypoints**
* Referees do not have the luxury of video replays.
* Quick decision-making is essential for maintaining control of the match.
### Mechanics
> Good mechanics are essential for effective refereeing.
* **Keypoints**
* Mechanics help in clearly communicating decisions to spectators.
* Developing good mechanics involves observing and learning from experienced referees.
### Fitness
> Physical fitness is important for referees to handle long seasons and tournaments.
* **Keypoints**
* Referees should stay fit to endure long matches and tournaments.
* Fitness helps in maintaining focus and performance throughout the season.
### Preparation
> Proper preparation is essential for referees before matches.
* **Keypoints**
* Referees should keep their calendars up to date.
* Communication with schools before matches is important.
* Knowing the location of the school and having contact information is crucial.
### Pre-Match Preparation
> Steps and considerations for referees before a wrestling match.
* **Keypoints**
* Arrive 45 minutes early.
* Identify the person in charge.
* Check the mat area for obstructions and proper setup.
* Ensure safety by maintaining a 10-foot clearance around the mat.
and much more.

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