Many of you are familiar with the term Technical Commissioner. It has been an officiating role in the IWRF for almost two decades. In that time the role has evolved to become one that requires exceptional knowledge, focus, patience, nuance and a high standard of communication. These officials are critically important to the operation of the game and an essential part on every officiating crew they are a part of.
In order to accurately reflect this evolution, and highlight the essential part these officials play in the delivery of each game, the IWRF has re-titled the role. Moving forward, these officials will fall under the title Game Commissioner.
In recent years, the role of Game Commissioner (GC) has been established as an important functional role in the smooth operation of the entire game. Early on, the primary function of the GC was to support the operation of the score table. Although score table management remains an aspect of the role, there is far more emphasis on the GC to act as line of defense, sounding board and confidant for the referees on court. Another critical role of the GC is in the area of game management. A skilled GC will act as a connection point for coaches, solve problems before they need to be escalated to the referee and relay key pieces of information that allow game to run smoothly. Rules knowledge is another critical aspect of this position. A GC who is equipped with a deep knowledge of the rules will be able to answer questions effectively, support the official with correctable errors that may occur and provide essential input should a decision review arise. The GC is a referee’s best kept secret and a coach’s best resource. Over the course of a tournament the GC can also influence continuity by creating a common thread that establishes consistency from one game to the next for the entire officiating crew. Including the GC in the pre-game allows them relay critical information from past games.
If this role sounds like the officiating path for you, the Technical Committee is always looking for capable people. There are many paths to becoming a Game Commissioner. If you have a strong back ground in the rules and work actively in your country as a referee or table official this is a great path to pursue. Many Game Commissioners are also retired on court officials and even former athletes. It is a very inclusive role within the officiating structure. The key skills and role requirements include;
- Be a team player – work closely with the on court crew, evaluator team and head official
- Have a minimum of 24 moths experience as a referee or table official within your domestic event structure
- Be actively engaged in training and mentorship with an experienced GC or IWRF Evaluator
- Receive a recommendation from your countries Head Official along with your application to attend an IWRF event
- To become certified you must receive two positive evaluations at IWRF events
Connecting with your IWRF Zone Head Official, a Game Commissioner in your area or any member of the Technical Commission is the best way to get involved. For more details on the role, please visit Game Commissioner Manual and read through the IWRF Game Commissioner training manual.
Kevin Bowie
Head of Communications, Technical Commission