What do we need to change in our regulations?

Since our website is enjoying record popularity now, I’d like to avail myself of this opportunity and share with you some of my recent observations, which I made during the latest championships. I talked to many trainers, referees, competitors and guests and these conversations gave me food for thought.

You can read the article about referees - compatriots here:

I think the matter is really important, so let me highlight a few things once again.

First and foremost, one should not referee a match between his compatriots! It’s unacceptable! People coming from the same country, city or belonging to the same club may feel animosity towards one another. This may affect referees’ objectivity. Secondly, a referee may be so upset that they’re being watched by the Head Referee that they may (even subconsciously) favour their compatriot’s opponent.  

I know that morale amongst referees is high, yet I believe that some small changes would certainly dispel all suspicions and improve the atmosphere.

I saw competitors cry backstage. I saw competitors watching the videos of their matches and cursing their compatriots – referees. We need to avoid such situations in future. That’s all.

The second thing is the cost of the protest. The amount is not excessive, but it prevents competitors from getting into an argument with referees too hasty. I happened to witness a situation when one of the competitors could not protest against the referee’s decision as he didn’t have the necessary amount with him. In fact, he had just enough money to cover the cost of his stay in Poland. As a result, he lost his match and cried in the hallway.

Hence, my suggestion is that each team should pay a deposit to the Head Referee so as not to hand over the money in front of cameras.

Many of the athletes who compete in the championships are wealthy and they have the necessary sum in their pockets. However, we have to bear in mind that some athletes don’t have such money at all. We only need to introduce a small change to solve this problem.

The final thing is that referees should speak some foreign languages. And it’s not only about correct pronunciation of basic commands, such as “Ready. Go!”. Referees should be able to communicate effectively in a foreign language so as to perform their duties. We need to introduce a rule that a referee at world or European championships HAS TO have a certificate confirming they have a good command of at least one of the two languages, English or Russian. If a referee “cheats”, i.e. if they show the necessary certificate, but it will turn out they cannot communicate in a foreign language, they should have their international qualifications taken away.

Of course, we shouldn’t do that right away, but plan it carefully. For instance, let’s assume that in three years it will be necessary for each referee at world or European championships to speak English and/or Russian. Let’s give the referees some time to improve their English or Russian.

That’s all.

I look forward to your feedback. Feel free to join our discussion. Honestly, I’m waiting for your support

PeSzy