Can you provide an example of a difficult decision you had to make as a referee and how you handled it?

Sample answer to the question

One difficult decision I had to make as a referee was during a youth soccer match. It was a close game with both teams playing aggressively. At one point, a player from the home team committed a hard foul on an opposing player, which should have resulted in a red card. However, I knew that this player had a history of aggressive behavior and had recently lost a family member. Rather than giving him a red card and possibly further escalating the situation, I decided to give him a yellow card and had a talk with him about his behavior. I explained the importance of fair play and sportsmanship, and he seemed to understand. This decision was difficult because I had to balance between enforcing the rules and considering the unique circumstances. Ultimately, it helped diffuse the tension and allowed the game to continue smoothly.

A more solid answer

One difficult decision I had to make as a referee was during a youth soccer match. It was a close game with both teams playing aggressively. At one point, a player from the home team committed a hard foul on an opposing player, which should have resulted in a red card. However, I noticed that the player seemed remorseful immediately after committing the foul and apologized to the injured player. In that moment, I had to make a judgment call. I decided to have a conversation with both players involved. I asked the player who committed the foul to sincerely apologize to the injured player and ensure that it wouldn't happen again. I explained to the injured player that the player who fouled him was genuinely sorry and that he could trust me to handle the situation appropriately. This decision helped deescalate the tension and allowed the game to continue in a fair manner. It was a difficult decision because I had to balance enforcing the rules with promoting sportsmanship and fair play, as well as maintaining the safety of the players.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer includes specific details that showcase the candidate's decision-making and judgment skills. It also demonstrates their ability to effectively communicate and resolve conflicts. However, the answer could still be improved by providing more information about the outcome of the decision and its impact on the game.

An exceptional answer

One difficult decision I had to make as a referee was during a youth soccer match. It was a highly intense game, and the players from both teams were displaying a lot of aggression. At one point, a player from the home team committed a dangerous tackle on an opposing player, resulting in a potential injury. As per the rules, the tackle deserved a red card without a doubt. However, I noticed that the player who committed the foul immediately realized his mistake and showed genuine concern for the injured player. Instead of giving him a red card right away, I decided to assess the situation further. I spoke to both players involved and observed their body language and demeanor. It became evident that the player who committed the foul was truly remorseful and had no malicious intent. I felt it was an opportunity to teach a valuable lesson to both players. I gave the player a yellow card and explained the severity of his actions. I also had a conversation with the injured player, assuring him that I would handle the situation appropriately. This decision not only allowed the game to continue, but it also created a learning experience for the players. The player who committed the foul displayed improved sportsmanship throughout the rest of the match, and the injured player appreciated the display of empathy. It was a difficult decision that required careful assessment and precise communication, but it resulted in a positive outcome for both teams and reinforced the values of fair play and sportsmanship.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides extensive details about the difficult decision the candidate had to make, showcasing their exceptional decision-making skills and ability to handle conflicts effectively. It also highlights the positive impact of the decision on the players involved and the overall game. The answer demonstrates the candidate's ability to balance enforcing the rules with promoting fair play and sportsmanship.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the game, including the specific regulations for the level of matches you will be officiating.
Study different scenarios that referees commonly face during matches and think about how you would handle them.
Develop excellent communication skills to effectively interact with players, coaches, and other match officials.
Practice decision-making in high-pressure situations by participating in mock matches or simulations.
Stay updated on any rule changes or updates in the sport.

What interviewers are evaluating

Good decision-making and judgement skills
Excellent communication and conflict-resolution abilities