Roller Derby Referee Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the high-speed world of roller derby, the focus on referees has never been stronger.

As the sport continues to evolve, the demand for skilled arbiters who can officiate, manage, and ensure the safety of the games becomes paramount.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a roller derby referee?

Whether you are:

• An individual aiming to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A team organizer drafting the perfect referee profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the ins and outs of roller derby officiating,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we’re rolling out a customizable roller derby referee job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or sports recruitment sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Roller Derby Referee Duties and Responsibilities

Roller Derby Referees play a crucial role in ensuring roller derby matches are conducted fairly, safely, and according to established rules.

They are responsible for monitoring the game, enforcing rules, and assessing penalties when necessary.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Understanding and enforcing the rules and regulations of roller derby
• Monitoring the game closely to identify violations of rules
• Assessing and assigning penalties as needed
• Ensuring safety of the players and maintaining order during matches
• Coordinating with other referees to control the game flow
• Using hand signals and verbal communication to indicate rule violations or penalties
• Assisting in player injuries or equipment malfunctions
• Providing input for any decisions regarding game disputes
• Maintaining an unbiased judgement during the game
• Participating in pre-game and post-game meetings with team captains and coaches

 

Roller Derby Referee Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and fair Roller Derby Referee to officiate at our roller derby matches.

The Roller Derby Referee will be responsible for ensuring that all players adhere to the rules of the game, making decisive calls, and maintaining a safe, fair, and enjoyable game environment.

The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of roller derby rules, excellent attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a passion for the sport.

 

Responsibilities

• Officiate at roller derby matches, ensuring all rules and regulations are adhered to
• Monitor players and game conditions to ensure a safe and fair play
• Issue penalties for rule infractions
• Resolve player disputes in a calm and fair manner
• Collaborate with other officials to make decisions
• Ensure all necessary equipment is in good working order
• Record game statistics and provide reports as necessary
• Participate in training sessions and workshops to improve officiating skills

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a roller derby referee or similar role
• Thorough understanding of roller derby rules and regulations
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong decision-making abilities
• Physical fitness and the ability to keep up with the fast pace of the game
• Strong communication and conflict resolution skills
• Willingness to travel for games and tournaments

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Travel expenses for games and tournaments
• Opportunities to participate in nationwide roller derby events

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Roller Derby Referee
• Work Environment: Roller derby rinks, both indoors and outdoors. Travel is often required for games and tournaments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Referee or League Commissioner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Depends on the league and level of experience.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Part-time, often with flexible hours based on game schedules.
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Roller Derby Referee Do?

Roller Derby Referees are crucial in the smooth functioning of roller derby matches.

These professionals are in charge of enforcing game rules and ensuring that players follow them.

They maintain order during matches by ensuring that skaters are not using illegal moves or breaking any rules.

When necessary, they penalize players for rule infractions.

Roller Derby Referees are responsible for tracking scores and watching for penalties.

They must have a thorough understanding of the rules and be capable of making quick, fair judgements in a fast-paced environment.

They also maintain the safety of the players and the integrity of the game by watching for dangerous behavior or equipment.

Some Roller Derby Referees may also assist in training sessions, providing feedback to skaters on how to improve their techniques or adjust their strategies to better comply with the rules.

Good communication skills are crucial for Roller Derby Referees as they need to effectively communicate penalties, scores and other important information to players, coaches, and spectators.

In addition to the physical aspects of the job, Roller Derby Referees are often responsible for administrative tasks such as keeping track of the time, updating scores, and maintaining records of the penalties called during a match.

 

Roller Derby Referee Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Roller Derby Referee should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge about the rules and regulations of roller derby, ensuring fair and accurate decision-making during games.
• Excellent physical fitness and agility to keep up with the fast pace of the game and to quickly react to game developments.
• Strong communication skills to clearly and effectively convey decisions to players, coaches, and spectators.
• Impartial and fair judgement to make unbiased decisions that can influence the outcome of the game.
• Strong observational skills to monitor the actions of players, detect rule violations, and ensure safety regulations are followed.
• Problem-solving abilities to quickly and effectively resolve disputes or disagreements on the rink.
• Ability to work under pressure and make decisive decisions during high-stress moments in the game.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to maintain professional relationships with team members, coaches, and players.

 

Roller Derby Referee Experience Requirements

Roller Derby Referees generally have extensive experience in the sport, either as a player or a fan.

This understanding of the game’s rules, culture, and dynamics is critical.

For entry-level referee roles, having participated in or having knowledge of roller derby for at least 1 to 2 years is usually a prerequisite.

This experience can be gained through involvement with local leagues or teams, volunteering at games, or attending roller derby events regularly.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often have had formal training in officiating roller derby games.

This could include having participated in referee clinics, training courses, or workshops.

They are expected to know and understand the rules of the game inside out, and be able to make split-second decisions under pressure.

Referees with more than 5 years of experience usually have some leadership experience, often having worked as a head referee, and may be ready for roles involving game management or training of new referees.

This could also include contributing to the development of rules and regulations in roller derby organizations.

 

Roller Derby Referee Education and Training Requirements

Roller Derby Referees do not typically require formal education, but they do need thorough knowledge and understanding of the sport of roller derby, its rules, and nuances.

Many Roller Derby Referees start as players or fans of the sport, learning the rules and guidelines through practical experience.

There are also workshops and training programs offered by roller derby organizations that teach aspiring referees about the rules of the game, safety protocols, and game management techniques.

Roller Derby Referees should have a good level of physical fitness to keep pace with the sport.

It is also beneficial to have first aid and CPR training, though it may not be a formal requirement.

Being a referee also requires strong communication skills, a decisive attitude, and the ability to remain impartial during games.

Although not required, certification from a recognized roller derby organization can improve credibility and enhance opportunities.

As the sport evolves, ongoing training and staying updated with changes in rules and regulations is essential for a Roller Derby Referee.

 

Roller Derby Referee Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Roller Derby Referee is typically around $10.00 – $15.00 (USD) per hour.

However, many referees volunteer their time and may not be paid at all.

Earnings can vary based on experience, location, and the specific league or event they’re officiating.

 

Roller Derby Referee Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Roller Derby Referee need?

A Roller Derby Referee needs excellent attention to detail to monitor the fast-paced action of a roller derby match.

They should have a strong understanding of the game’s rules and be able to make quick, fair judgments.

Good physical fitness is necessary to keep up with the action, and excellent communication skills are also essential to explain calls and ensure all players understand the decisions made.

 

Do Roller Derby Referees need specific training or qualifications?

While there’s no specific academic requirement to become a Roller Derby Referee, having a thorough understanding of the sport’s rules and strategies is crucial.

Many referees gain this knowledge through personal experience as a player.

Additionally, most roller derby leagues have training programs for referees, which include on-skates training and rules classes.

 

What should you look for in a Roller Derby Referee resume?

Experience in refereeing or participating in roller derby is highly desirable.

Knowledge of roller derby rules and regulations is essential, as is the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

Physical fitness and good health are also important, as is the ability to communicate effectively with players and other officials.

 

What qualities make a good Roller Derby Referee?

A good Roller Derby Referee is fair, consistent, and possesses excellent communication skills.

They need to be authoritative and confident in their decisions, even when under pressure.

Physical stamina is important, as they need to keep up with the fast-paced action.

An in-depth understanding of the rules and a passion for the sport will also be beneficial to the role.

 

Do Roller Derby Referees need to skate?

Yes, Roller Derby Referees must be able to skate, and not just casually.

They need to keep up with the fast-paced action, sometimes moving backward or sideways quickly to get the best view of the play.

Therefore, good skating skills and physical fitness are crucial for this role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve opened the rink on what it truly means to be a roller derby referee.

And here’s a surprise:

It’s not just about blowing whistles.

It’s about moderating an adrenaline-packed sport, one call at a time.

With our comprehensive roller derby referee job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to skate into action.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next pit stop for meticulously crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every call you make shapes the game.

Let’s rule the rink. Together.

How to Become a Roller Derby Referee (Complete Guide)

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