Western Australia is considered a leader in the development and promotion of sports officials. The Department of Sport and Recreation coordinates a number of programs, workshops, accredited courses and scholarships to provide ongoing support and development for officials.
Officials are an essential part of sport. They should be given an opportunity to make a valuable contribution to sport by learning new skills through education, training and mentoring. It is important to create a respectful, appreciative and supportive environment for everyone participating, including spectators.
We to make the experience for officials rewarding and challenging and allow them to be the best they can be!
Who are officials?
An official is any person who controls the actual play of a competition by the application of the rules and laws of the sport to make judgements on the rule infringements, performance, time or score.
Why do we need officials?
To ensure the spirit of the game/event is observed and enjoyed by all.
Recruiting and training officials
Officials are an essential part of sport. They make sure everyone plays by the rules and that the game is safe.
National Accreditation
Official education and events
Benefits of being an official
- Enjoyment and satisfaction.
- Career path.
- Development to elite level.
- Potential for financial rewards.
- Personal development.
- Fitness and health.
- Social interaction.
- Opportunity to travel.
- Opportunity for parents or partners to be involved in sport.
Officials require the following skills:
- Decision-making.
- Interpersonal communications.
- People management.
- Knowledge of the rules.
- Understanding of the game.
- Appropriate level of fitness.
- Sense of humour.
- Courage and confidence.
All you need is an interest in sport and a willingness to be involved. If you would like more information about becoming an official in your sport contact your State Sporting Association or the Department of Sport and Recreation.
The Officiating Lab is an online library of research on officiating issues.
Play by the Rules website
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Jonelle Burns
Project Officer
246 Vincent Street, LEEDERVILLE WA 6007
PO Box 329, LEEDERVILLE WA 6903
Telephone (08) 9492 9757
Facsimile (08) 9492 9711
Email Jonelle
