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European Billiards & Snooker Referees Association

25 TIPS FOR TOP REFEREEING

1. Wear Gloves at all times when handling the balls.

2. Check the spots are in line, if they are not, get the table fitter to fix (if available).  This should be the only time the spots need checking.  It is not necessary to check after each frame or when re-spotting the colours.

3. Check the equipment from the baulk end, long butts on the right and half butts on the left (both with the rest and tip facing the top cushion).  Other equipment (where available) under the table from left to right are two cue extensions, extended rest, spider, swan neck and extended spider.

4. Check the player’s names for correct spelling and seating order.  It is a general principle that the higher ranked/seeded player sits at the yellow spot .

5. Check the scoring equipment (and zapper  including range and all buttons)

6. Check the player’s table for water, ice, glasses, wet and dry cloths.

7. Make sure you know where your players are and arrange a suitable meeting point prior to the match starting and inform the tournament director.

8. When setting up the balls keep the white with you (not in your pocket) and do not drop balls into the triangle.

9. Use the back of your hand to clean any chalk, etc from the table.

10. Don’t rest your free hand on the bed of the table when re-spotting balls, etc.

11. Try and follow the cue ball and keep behind the player’s line of sight.

12. Walk round the table with your eyes fixed on the table at all times.

13. Learn to walk backwards when moving away from the table.

14. Anticipate play and position yourself accordingly.  For example, re-spotting the balls from the best side of the table.

15. Only give out sufficient information about scores, etc.

16. Say players first and surname unless team event then only the country.

17. Do not get into long talks with players when repositioning the balls after a miss.  Get both players to agree as quickly as possible.

18. Whenever there is any doubt, use your ball marker when re-spotting colours.

19. When positioning yourself around the table there are three main priorities (1) the players, (2) the TV cameras and (3) the audience.

20. Make sure the match result sheet is completed after your match is finished, ensuring player who broke off in opening frame is clearly indicated.

21. If the computer system fails, switch to manual scoreboard and finish the frame before seeking assistance.

22. If you have a word with a player about time wasting or any other matter wait until he has finished his visit to the table and do it discreetly.

23. Do not discuss your match in public and especially within earshot of players.  You should not speak to any media representatives without the consent of the tournament director

24. If there is an interval (normally after the fourth frame) make certain you know how long the interval will last (normally 15 – 20 minutes).  When the frame leading into the interval has been completed inform the players of the meeting point and time you expect to see them.   

Use your watch to determine the correct time.  Reset the table in preparation for the match recommencing (if necessary, remove balls from table to allow table to be brushed).  Do not wait at the table for the players to return.  Make certain you arrive at the meeting point before the time you have given to the players.  Should a player not turn up – inform the tournament director/official immediately and await their instruction.

25. Inform your players that smoking and/or drinking of alcohol is not allowed at the table.

And finally apply the rules as the rule book.  Do not introduce any other matters or comments.

Information and contributions to the site are most welcome and can be addressed to EBSRA

 © Janie Watkins 2006