Head Referee

Position Summary - This is a certified, Key Volunteer Position  

The Head Referee is responsible for training, directing and supervising all Referees and Official Scorers.  Oversees all scoring processes and procedures.  Has final authority for decisions regarding team scores.  Play a critical role in ensuring smooth flow of match play, and maintaining the pace of the event.

*Must sign a Volunteer Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Form prior to start of service

Position Overview

• Significant level of responsibility
• High visibility role
• Ability to work and interact with volunteers, team members and students, contracted and FIRST staff
• Ability to contribute to the successful execution of the competition; impact quality of event
• Positioned on perimeter of the playing field; fast-paced action
• Physically active role, not sedentary
• Time Commitment: Thursday (training), Friday, and Saturday; participation in pre-event training and certification required through FIRST

Responsilities

• Conduct referee training; may attend Volunteer Meeting if desired
• Supervise Referees and Official Scorers
• Observe matches, "call" and announce rule infractions; determines penalties
• Lead score deliberations and make final decision regarding match scores. 
• Provide match scores to the Scorekeeper/Field Power Controller
• Participate in deliberations with the Field Supervisor and Lead Robot Inspector regarding robot-related issues raised by opposing team
• Work closely with the Field Supervisor and Scorekeeper/Field Power Controller to ensure matches proceed smoothly and matches are on schedule
• Monitor and promote safe practices on and around the playing field; wear safety glasses during the matches
• Secure and distributes referee supplies
• Attend Head Referee trainings by teleconference

Experience And Skills Needed

• Two (2) prior years’ FIRST referee experience required (exceptions may be approved by FIRST HQ)
  
• Demonstrate diplomacy and authority; be assertive, but tactful
• Thorough knowledge of the competition game and rules of play
• Outgoing personality; high energy
• Strong communication, diplomacy skills
• Self-directed individual
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Attention to detail
• Ability to move about the field
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Strong assessment skills

Commitment:              Pre-event training and certification + Minimum three days at event

Approximate times:    Wednesday: 6:00 P.M.- 8 P.M.  (dependent upon Regional*)

                                   Thursday: 8:00 A.M.- 8 P.M.

                                   Friday: 8:00 A.M.- 5 P.M.

                                   Saturday: 8:00 A.M.- Completion

NOTE: Volunteers should arrive on site 15-20 minutes prior to start of every shift in order to allow time to check in at the Volunteer Registration desk. 

Training

Provided by FIRST headquarters prior to start of competition season. May include: training at FIRST Head Quarters, live and/or recorded web conferences, teleconference(s), manual and other support materials, email communications and one-on-one support.  First-year volunteer may serve in an apprentice role, working with a veteran Head Referee. 

Oversight by Volunteer Coordinator

Support by FIRST Technical Advisor and Chief Referee

Schedule Of Activities