Sports Official
About The Position
The Youth Sports Official/Referee plays a critical role in our youth sports programs; they are responsible for ensuring fair play, sportsmanship, and a positive experience for participants in YMCA youth sports leagues and tournaments. This role involves officiating games, enforcing rules, prioritizing player safety, managing game logistics, and handling conflicts. Effective communication with participants, coaches, and staff is essential, as is a commitment to continuous learning and serving as a positive role model. The position requires adherence to YMCA values and competencies, including mission advancement, collaboration, operational effectiveness, and personal growth.
Requirements
- Minimum age of 16.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations
- Knowledge of game rules, officiating mechanics, and sportsmanship principles
- Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed for league games and tournaments.
- CPR, First Aid, AED, Oxygen certifications required within 60 days of employment.
- Ability to complete Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire.
- Ability to complete Bloodborne Pathogens and Sexual Harassment training within 30 days of hire.
- Passion for the YMCA mission and commitment to serving the community.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience as a sports official or referee preferred.
Responsibilities
- Officiate youth sports games, matches, and tournaments according to YMCA rules, regulations, and officiating guidelines.
- Enforce rules fairly and consistently, ensuring that all players, coaches, and spectators understand and adhere to game rules and sportsmanship expectations.
- Prioritize the safety of players by monitoring gameplay and intervening as needed to prevent injuries or unsafe play.
- Make decisions regarding player substitutions, timeouts, and game stoppages to address safety concerns and maintain a safe playing environment.
- Manage game logistics, including timekeeping, scorekeeping, and equipment management.
- Ensure that games start and end on time, and that necessary equipment and supplies are available and in working order.
- Coordinate with coaches, officials, and facility staff to resolve any logistical issues that may arise during games.
- Handle conflicts and disputes between players, coaches, or spectators calmly and impartially.
- Mediate disagreements, issue warnings or penalties as necessary, and maintain control of the game environment to prevent escalation of conflicts.
- Communicate effectively with players, coaches, parents, and fellow officials before, during, and after games.
- Provide clear and concise explanations of calls, rulings, and decisions to ensure understanding and promote sportsmanship and respect among participants.
- Attend training sessions, workshops, and meetings to enhance officiating skills, knowledge of game rules, and understanding of best practices in youth sports officiating.
- Stay informed about changes to rules, policies, and procedures relevant to officiating in specific sports leagues or organizations.
- Serve as a positive role model and mentor for young athletes, demonstrating integrity, sportsmanship, and respect for the game and its participants.
- Encourage fair play, teamwork, and good sportsmanship among players, coaches, and spectators.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Hourly pay range of $20.00 - $25.00
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
