Officials Performance Guidelines

Official's Performance Guidelines

The USA Track & Field Officials Committee expects all officials to be prepared and to conduct themselves in a professional manner. These Performance Guidelines outline several characteristics which should be demonstrated by all certified officials.

USATF Officials shall:

  1. Comply with the USA Track & Field Officials Code of Ethics.
  2. Be punctual in reporting for assigned officiating duties, including allowing adequate time for venue inspection and set-up prior to the warm-up period and competition.
  3. Possess the appropriate rule book(s) for the competition.
  4. Possess and maintain appropriate uniform items and wear the national uniform or other dress prescribed by meet management, and be prepared to continue duties in all types of weather.
  5. Inspect assigned venues to ensure the safety of athletes, officials, and spectators. Correct or report apparent or suspected dangers to meet management before beginning a competition.
  6. Be calm, positive, and polite. Refrain from dialog with athletes and coaches regarding disputed calls or decisions, and instead refer them to the referee, protest table, or games committee for resolution. Report abusive behavior toward officials to meet management.
  7. Not use any electronic or photographic devices, including cell phones, while officiating.
  8. Assist in submitting competition results, cleaning the event area, and returning equipment. Before departing the site, determine if any other venues need officiating assistance.
  9. Attend periodic training sessions or clinics to maintain or update officiating skills. Assist, as appropriate, in developing and presenting training materials.
  10. Keep physically fit, and advise their association or coordinator of officials of physical limitations on their ability to perform any assigned duty.
  11. Mentor less experienced officials by sharing information and techniques, demonstrating use of equipment, identifying potential problems or issues and recommending solutions, and encouraging questions.
  12. Assist in recruiting new officials.
  13. Consider active involvement with the officials’ committees of the local association and USATF.
  14. Make recommendations for rules changes as appropriate.