25 Referee Interview Questions and Answers

No matter what sport you’re watching, chances are good that a referee is keeping things running smoothly. And, just like the athletes they officiate, referees need to be in top condition to make quick, accurate decisions.

To become a referee, you first need to pass an exam that proves your knowledge of the sport’s rules. Then, you need to attend an officiating clinic to learn the mechanics of officiating. After that, you’re ready for your first game.

But are you ready for your first job interview? Chances are, you’ll be asked about your experience as a referee, your knowledge of the sport’s rules, and how you handle difficult situations. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of referee interview questions and answers.

1. Are you comfortable making quick decisions in high-pressure situations?

Referees often have to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. Employers ask this question to see if you can handle the pressure of making a call that could change the outcome of a game. Use your answer to show that you are confident and decisive when it comes to officiating games.

Example: “Absolutely. I have been a referee for many years and am very comfortable making quick decisions in high-pressure situations. I understand that the job of a referee is to make sure that the game is fair and safe, so I take my responsibility seriously. I always strive to be impartial and unbiased when making calls, even in the most intense moments. I also understand the importance of being able to think on my feet and react quickly to any changes or challenges that may arise during a match. My experience has taught me how to remain calm under pressure and make sound judgments quickly.”

2. What are some of the rules you have to enforce during a game?

The interviewer may ask you this question to see if you have a good understanding of the rules and how they apply to different situations. Use your answer to highlight your knowledge of the rules, but also show that you can use common sense when making decisions on the field.

Example: “As a referee, I understand the importance of enforcing rules during a game. My primary responsibility is to ensure that all players are following the rules and regulations set forth by the governing body. This includes ensuring that no illegal contact or physical play occurs, as well as making sure that all players adhere to the time limits for each period of play. In addition, I must also enforce any penalties such as offsides, handballs, and fouls. Finally, I am responsible for monitoring the score and keeping track of substitutions throughout the match.

I take my role as a referee very seriously and strive to maintain fairness and impartiality at all times. I have extensive experience in officiating games, and I believe that my knowledge and understanding of the laws of the game make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

3. How would you handle a situation where one player or team is consistently breaking the rules?

Referees must be able to handle difficult situations, such as when a player or team is breaking the rules. Employers want to make sure you have the ability to remain calm and enforce the rules fairly in these types of scenarios. In your answer, demonstrate that you can use your communication skills to diffuse the situation and apply the rules consistently.

Example: “If I were in a situation where one player or team was consistently breaking the rules, my first step would be to talk to them and explain why their behavior is unacceptable. It’s important that they understand why their actions are not allowed so that they can make an effort to change their behavior.

I would also ensure that all players on both teams are aware of the rules and regulations, as well as any consequences for breaking them. This way, everyone has a clear understanding of what is expected of them while playing.

In addition, I would take extra measures to monitor the game closely and intervene if necessary. If a player continues to break the rules despite warnings, then I would take appropriate action such as issuing a yellow card or ejecting the player from the match. My goal is to maintain a fair and safe environment for all players involved.”

4. What is the most important skill for a referee to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine what you value in a referee. They may ask this question to see if you have similar values and skills as they do, or if your answer is unique. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about which skill has helped you most throughout your career.

Example: “The most important skill for a referee to have is the ability to make clear and impartial decisions. As a referee, it’s my job to ensure that all players are treated fairly and that the rules of the game are followed. To do this effectively, I must be able to remain unbiased in any situation and not let personal feelings or biases influence my judgement.

I also believe that communication is key when it comes to being an effective referee. It’s important to be able to clearly explain the rules of the game to both teams as well as communicate with them during the match. This helps to ensure that everyone understands what is expected of them and can help prevent potential disputes from arising.

Lastly, I think having good problem-solving skills is essential for referees. Inevitably, there will be times when issues arise on the field that require quick thinking and creative solutions. Being able to assess the situation calmly and come up with a fair resolution is critical for keeping the game running smoothly.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to make a difficult call during a game.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you make decisions and whether you’re able to handle pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation that shows your ability to think critically and act decisively.

Example: “One of the most difficult calls I had to make as a referee was during a basketball game. The score was close and there were only seconds left in the game when one of the players committed an intentional foul. It was a very tense moment, but I knew that I had to make the right call. After consulting with my fellow referees, we determined that the player should be given a technical foul and ejected from the game.

I understand how important it is for referees to remain impartial and make the correct calls no matter what. In this instance, I felt confident that I made the right decision based on the evidence presented. My experience has taught me that making tough decisions is part of being a successful referee, and I am prepared to do so whenever necessary.”

6. If two players got into an argument on the court, how would you handle it?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and whether you have the ability to diffuse a situation. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills, problem-solving abilities and conflict resolution strategies.

Example: “If two players got into an argument on the court, I would handle it in a professional and impartial manner. First, I would stop play and separate the two players to ensure that no physical altercation occurred. Then, I would calmly explain to both players why their behavior was inappropriate and remind them of the rules they must abide by while playing. Finally, I would take appropriate disciplinary action if necessary, such as issuing technical fouls or ejecting one or both players from the game.

My experience as a referee has taught me how to remain calm and composed in difficult situations like this. I understand the importance of maintaining control over the game and enforcing the rules fairly and consistently. My goal is always to make sure that everyone involved feels heard and respected, while also ensuring that the game runs smoothly and safely.”

7. What would you do if you saw a player intentionally breaking a rule to gain an advantage?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would respond to a challenging situation on the field. Use your answer to highlight your ability to make tough decisions and remain calm under pressure.

Example: “If I saw a player intentionally breaking a rule to gain an advantage, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of all players involved. After that, I would take immediate action and issue a warning or penalty depending on the severity of the violation. It is important for referees to remain impartial and consistent in their enforcement of rules, so I would also make sure to apply the same standards to similar situations in the future.

In addition, I believe it is important to educate players about why certain rules exist and how they can help create a fair and safe playing environment. As a referee, I would explain to the offending player why their actions were unacceptable and encourage them to abide by the rules going forward. Finally, I would document the incident and report it to the appropriate authorities if necessary.”

8. How well do you know the rules of the specific sport you’ll be refereeing?

The interviewer will likely ask you questions about the rules of the sport to ensure that you have a strong understanding of how the game is played. Use your answer to highlight your knowledge of the specific sport and provide examples of when you used this knowledge to make an impact on the game.

Example: “I have a deep understanding of the rules and regulations for the sport I will be refereeing. I have been an active referee for several years, and I am constantly staying up to date on any changes or updates to the rules. I have attended numerous seminars and workshops in order to stay informed on all aspects of the game.

Additionally, I have experience officiating games at both the amateur and professional level. This has allowed me to gain a better understanding of how the rules are applied in different situations. I also take the time to review video footage of past games to ensure that I am making accurate calls during my own games.”

9. Do you have any experience working with other officials to make decisions?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you work with others and your ability to make decisions. Use examples from past experiences where you had to collaborate with other officials or teammates to make a decision on the field.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with other officials to make decisions. During my time as a referee for the past five years, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with other referees and umpires on numerous occasions. This has allowed me to develop strong communication skills and an understanding of how to effectively work together to reach a decision that is fair and just.

I understand the importance of making sure all parties involved are in agreement when it comes to making important calls. To ensure this, I always take the time to listen to everyone’s opinion before coming to a conclusion. I also strive to remain impartial and unbiased while considering each side’s arguments.”

10. When is it appropriate to start or stop the clock in a game?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of the rules and regulations in a game. Use examples from past experiences to show how you apply the rules to make decisions during games.

Example: “Starting or stopping the clock in a game is an important part of refereeing. It’s essential to ensure that the game runs smoothly and fairly for all players involved. As a Referee, I understand that it’s my responsibility to make sure that the clock is started and stopped at the appropriate times.

When starting the clock, I always wait until both teams are ready and prepared to start playing before beginning the countdown. This ensures that no team has an unfair advantage due to the clock being started too early. Similarly, when stopping the clock, I will only do so if there is a stoppage in play such as an injury or a timeout. This allows for any necessary adjustments to be made without disrupting the flow of the game.”

11. We want our referees to enforce the rules fairly for both teams. How would you make sure you treat both teams equally?

The interviewer wants to know that you can be fair and impartial when making decisions on the field. Use examples from your experience where you were able to remain unbiased in a situation, even if it was challenging.

Example: “As a referee, I understand the importance of treating both teams fairly and equally. To ensure that this is done, I would first make sure to familiarize myself with all of the rules and regulations for the sport before each game. This way, I can be sure that I am applying the same rules consistently throughout the match.

I also believe in having an open dialogue with players and coaches from both teams. By communicating any issues or concerns during the game, I can help create a more positive atmosphere while still enforcing the rules fairly. Furthermore, I will always strive to remain impartial and unbiased when making decisions on the field.”

12. Describe your experience working with technology to monitor or track game information.

Technology is becoming more and more important in the world of sports. Referees need to be able to use technology effectively to monitor game information, such as time remaining, score and fouls committed. An interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience using technology during a game. In your answer, explain how you would use technology to complete these tasks.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with technology to monitor and track game information. I have been a referee for over 10 years, and during that time I have become very familiar with the latest technologies used in sports officiating. For example, I am proficient in using video replay systems to review plays and make accurate calls on the field. I also use tracking software to keep up-to-date records of player stats, team standings, and other important data. Finally, I’m well versed in utilizing scoreboards and other digital displays to provide spectators with real-time updates throughout the game.”

13. What makes you a good fit for this specific role?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your qualifications and how they relate to this role. Use your answer to highlight any relevant experience you have that makes you a good fit for this position, such as previous refereeing experience or education in sports management.

Example: “I believe I am an excellent fit for this role as a Referee because of my extensive experience in the field. I have been refereeing for over 10 years and have officiated at multiple levels, from youth to professional leagues. My knowledge of the rules and regulations is comprehensive and up-to-date with current standards.

Additionally, I possess strong communication skills that allow me to effectively manage players, coaches, and spectators during games. I understand how to remain impartial while also enforcing the rules fairly and consistently. I also have a great ability to stay calm under pressure, which is essential when making quick decisions on the field.”

14. Which sports have you previously been a referee for?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your experience and background. It’s important that you are honest with your answer, but also highlight any unique or interesting experiences you’ve had as a referee.

Example: “I have been a referee for a variety of sports over the past few years. I have experience in basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer. My most recent position was as a basketball referee at a local high school. During my time there, I developed an excellent understanding of the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as how to handle difficult situations that may arise during games.

In addition to my basketball experience, I also have extensive knowledge of the rules and regulations of other sports, such as baseball, softball, and soccer. I am confident that I can apply this knowledge to any new sports I may be asked to referee. Furthermore, I have a strong work ethic and dedication to ensuring fair play on the field or court. I believe these qualities make me an ideal candidate for the referee position.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of refereeing a game?

This question can help the interviewer determine what you value most in your role as a referee. It also helps them understand how you might prioritize tasks during an event. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific skills or qualities that are important for referees and why they’re important.

Example: “The most important aspect of refereeing a game is ensuring that the rules are followed and enforced in an impartial manner. As a referee, it is my responsibility to ensure that all players abide by the rules of the game while also providing a safe environment for everyone involved. I believe that a successful referee must be able to maintain control of the game without being overly authoritative or intimidating.

I understand that referees must have excellent communication skills in order to effectively communicate with coaches, players, and other officials. It is essential that I am able to clearly explain any decisions made during the game as well as provide feedback on player performance. Furthermore, I strive to remain consistent throughout the game so that all participants can trust that the same standards will apply regardless of the situation.”

16. How often are you able to make decisions per minute?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the sport and how you apply it. You can use this question to demonstrate your ability to make quick decisions, which is a skill that referees need to have during games.

Example: “As a referee, I am able to make decisions quickly and accurately. I have been trained to recognize potential issues on the field and take action immediately. On average, I can make up to five decisions per minute depending on the situation. For example, if there is an altercation between players, I must be able to identify it quickly and make the appropriate call. My experience as a referee has taught me how to remain calm in high-pressure situations and make sound judgments without hesitation. This allows me to make quick decisions that are fair and unbiased.”

17. There is a discrepancy in the score between the two teams. How would you handle it?

This question is a test of your ability to remain calm and focused in stressful situations. It also shows the interviewer how you would handle conflict between players, coaches or fans. In your answer, demonstrate that you can use your communication skills to diffuse tension and keep everyone safe.

Example: “If there is a discrepancy in the score between two teams, I would handle it with professionalism and objectivity. First, I would review the game footage to determine if the discrepancy was due to an error made by either team or myself as referee. If the discrepancy was caused by an error on my part, I would take responsibility for the mistake and make any necessary corrections.

If the discrepancy was caused by an error from either of the teams, I would discuss the issue with both teams and explain why the correction needs to be made. I would then ensure that all parties involved are aware of the corrected score and that they understand the reasoning behind the change. Finally, I would document the incident and provide a written report to the league officials.”

18. How do you handle criticism from coaches and players?

As a referee, you will often be criticized for your calls. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle criticism and remain calm during the game. In your answer, explain that you understand coaches and players may disagree with some of your calls. Explain that you try to focus on making fair decisions while remaining respectful to everyone involved in the game.

Example: “I believe that criticism is an important part of being a referee. It helps me to stay on top of my game and ensure I’m making the right calls. When I receive criticism from coaches or players, I take it in stride and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I always try to remain professional and respectful when responding to criticism, even if I don’t agree with it. I also make sure to listen carefully and consider their point of view before making any decisions. Ultimately, I strive to be fair and impartial while maintaining a positive attitude.”

19. What strategies do you use to ensure that the game is safe for all participants?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of safety protocols and how well you can apply them during the game. Use examples from your experience as a referee that show you understand what it takes to keep players safe on the field.

Example: “Safety is my number one priority as a referee. I take several steps to ensure that the game is safe for all participants. First, I make sure that all players are aware of and understand the rules of the game. Before each game, I review the rules with the teams and answer any questions they may have. This helps to prevent any misunderstandings or confusion during the game.

I also pay close attention to the behavior of the players throughout the game. If I see any dangerous play or unsportsmanlike conduct, I will intervene immediately and issue warnings or penalties as necessary. I also keep an eye out for injuries and will stop the game if needed in order to provide medical assistance.

Lastly, I always strive to be fair and impartial when making calls. I want all players to feel like their safety is being taken seriously and that they can trust me to make the right decisions.”

20. Describe a time when you had to make a call on the spot with no time to think about it.

This question is a great way to test your ability to make quick decisions. It also shows the interviewer that you can be decisive and confident in your choices. When answering this question, try to describe a time when you made a call quickly but still managed to make an accurate decision.

Example: “I recently had to make a call on the spot with no time to think about it during an intense soccer match. As a referee, I was responsible for making sure that all rules were followed and that the game ran smoothly. During the match, one of the players committed a foul in the penalty box which resulted in a penalty kick. In this situation, I had to make a quick decision as to whether or not the player should be given a red card.

After assessing the situation, I decided that the player should receive a yellow card instead of a red due to the fact that the foul was unintentional and did not cause any serious harm to the other player. This decision was made quickly and without hesitation as there was no time to deliberate over the matter. After making my decision, I communicated it clearly to the players and coaches involved in order to ensure that everyone understood what had happened and why the decision was made.”

21. Do you have any experience working with video replay technology?

Video replay technology is becoming more common in sports, and referees need to be able to use it effectively. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience using video replay technology and can apply that knowledge to their league. If you do not have any experience with video replay technology, consider asking the employer if they provide training on how to use it.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with video replay technology. In my current role as a Referee, I use video replay technology on a regular basis to review plays and make accurate decisions. I’m comfortable navigating the various systems used for video replay and am confident in my ability to quickly assess situations and make sound judgments.

I also take pride in staying up-to-date on the latest developments in video replay technology and attend conferences and seminars whenever possible to ensure that I’m well versed in the newest advancements in this field. I understand how important it is to be able to accurately interpret video evidence and I strive to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to new technologies.”

22. How would you handle a situation where a player refuses to accept your decision?

Referees must be able to make decisions that players may not agree with. Employers ask this question to see if you have the confidence and experience to handle these situations. In your answer, explain how you would use your communication skills to help the player understand why you made the call.

Example: “If a player refuses to accept my decision, I would first take the time to explain why I made that call. It is important for players to understand the rules and regulations of the game so they can make informed decisions on the field. If the player still does not agree with my decision, I would then use my authority as referee to enforce it. I believe in being firm but fair when dealing with situations like this, so I would ensure that the player understands the consequences of their actions if they continue to refuse to accept my decision. Finally, I would document the incident and report it to the appropriate authorities. This way, any further issues can be addressed quickly and effectively.”

23. Are there any special circumstances that require additional attention or procedures as a referee?

This question is a way for the interviewer to understand how you handle unique situations and challenges. Use your answer to highlight any special skills or knowledge that you have as a referee, such as experience with specific sports or rules of play.

Example: “Yes, there are certain special circumstances that require additional attention or procedures as a referee. For example, when dealing with youth sports, I always make sure to be extra vigilant in my observations and decisions. It is important to ensure the safety of all players involved and maintain a fair playing environment. I also take into account any cultural differences between teams that may affect how they interact on the field.

Additionally, I am aware of the need for impartiality when making calls during a game. As a referee, it is essential to remain unbiased at all times and not let personal feelings influence my decisions. Finally, I understand the importance of being prepared for any unexpected events that may arise during a match. This includes having knowledge of the rules and regulations, as well as being able to respond quickly and appropriately to any situation.”

24. Describe how you stay up-to-date with changes in rules, regulations, and protocols.

Referees need to be aware of the latest rules and regulations in their sport. Employers ask this question to make sure you have a process for staying up-to-date on changes that may affect your performance as a referee. In your answer, explain how you learn about new information and what steps you take to ensure you’re prepared for upcoming games.

Example: “As a referee, it is important to stay up-to-date with changes in rules, regulations, and protocols. To do this, I make sure to attend any seminars or workshops that are available for referees. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the latest developments in officiating and ensure that I am knowledgeable on all of the most current rules and regulations.

I also keep up with industry news by reading relevant publications and websites. This helps me stay informed on any new rules or regulations that may have been implemented since my last seminar or workshop. Finally, I take advantage of online resources such as webinars and podcasts to continue learning about the sport and its governing bodies. By utilizing these tools, I can gain insight into how other referees handle certain situations and remain aware of any changes in the rules and regulations.”

25. Have you ever had to eject a player from a game? If so, what was the reason?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and whether you have experience with ejecting players from a game. Use your answer to highlight your ability to make tough decisions, such as when to eject a player or coach, and the steps you take to ensure everyone remains safe during the process.

Example: “Yes, I have had to eject a player from a game before. The reason was that the player was using profanity and engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct. As a referee, it is my job to ensure that all players are playing fairly and within the rules of the game. In this particular situation, the player’s behavior was unacceptable and could have caused a disruption to the game.

I handled the situation by first speaking with the player and warning them about their behavior. When they continued to act inappropriately, I made the decision to eject them from the game. This ensured that the game would continue without any further disruptions.”