More Officials are really needed!

Athletics depends on its team of officials to make sure it runs within the rules of competition, in a safe manner and for the benefit of the athletes. Sports like soccer, rugby or netball, only need a few officials, but athletics needs many more. At major international championships like the Olympics or Commonwealth Games there are over 200 officials. At a weekly Summer Competition we need anything from 45 to 60 officials/volunteers.

When you look out across the track and see 30 or so officials don’t think “they don’t need my help”. Instead ask “where can I help”.

Athletics ACT is always looking for new officials. There’s a role for everyone.

How to Become an Official

At a Summer Series or High Noon Meet the competition manager will be looking for the services of up many volunteers. Who do you ask? On competition days, a member of the Officials Committee or a member of your clubs committee. During the week call the AACT office and they will take your contact details. A member of the Officials Committee will contact you and discuss what events you would like to “have a go” at. It’s that easy.

The first thing you need to know is you won’t be out there on your own. There is always a team of officials, some very experienced, there to act as officials themselves and to help and guide new, less experienced people.

Is there a pathway of development and training?

Once you make a start … the sky is the limit. Many AACT officials have officiated at Australian, Commonwealth, Olympic and World Championships.

Once you have decided you are interested, AACT has a structured programme including supervised practical work plus seminars and lectures. You can start your grading straight away.

Once you’re a registered AACT Official (which does not take long), you’ll receive everything you need to be an official.

What Roles can I do?

You’d be surprised about the many and varied roles our officials play. Here’s a list of some of the roles filled by Officials …

• Jumps
  
• Throws
• Track
• Administration
• Equipment
• Competition Management

What is expected of an official?

•             Work as a member of a team
•             Work under pressure
•             Have good people skills
  
•             Know the rules
•             Exercise punctuality
•             Tact and Patience
•             Alertness
•             Aware of surroundings
•             Enjoy the task
•             Be inconspicuous