Referees are an integral part of our sport and anyone can become a squash referee. By doing so you’ll develop observation, leadership, confidence and communication skills to be able to manage a squash game.
Why become a referee?
- Ensure games are conducted safely and are played in accordance with sanctioned rules and regulations.
- Continue your enjoyment of the game after or even during your playing career.
- Increase your knowledge of the rules to improve your game.
- Have the best seat in the house at every match.
- Get that great feeling of allowing everyone to have the best experience possible when taking part in squash matches and tournaments.
- Maintain your current links with the game, forge new friendships and give back to the sport in a direct and meaningful way.
- Gain appreciation and respect from the squash family.
- Open up travel opportunities both around New Zealand and to the rest of the world.
Learn more about the different Referee Pathways on the SquashNZ website.
WSO Referee Framework
Step 1: Club Referee – WSO Level 0 + Level 1 100%
Club referees can be expected to referee matches up to their own playing level but may be able to do higher levels depending on experience and ability. It must be recognised that no practical appraisal is completed for a club referee, and successful candidates should therefore be confident but still take care with the level of matches they choose to referee.
The Squash New Zealand Club Referee exam can be found here.
Players can enhance their knowledge by signing up to the WSO website and achieving Level 0 + 1 module competition, there is no officiating fee required to get to this stage.
It is currently being investigated whether the WSO Level 0 + 1 100% will eventually become the new Club Referee exam.
Step 2: District Referee – WSO Level 2
Level 1 Referees can go on & work towards being a WSO level 2 (District level) referee.
Level 2 Referees are required to:
- Submit Expression of Interest to Squash New Zealand – click here
- Achieve up to WSO Level 2 module completion
- Complete the practical assessments as per Referees Management Plan below.
- A summary of the requirements can be found here WSO Level 2 Referee Summary Requirements v2
- Upon completion of the relevant Level 2 practical requirements, SNZ Referee Director will request WSO Endorsement of the Referee
- Referee to pay fee for WSO Level 2
Step 3: National Referee – WSO Level 3
The WSO Level 3 is awarded to referees who have proved their ability and commitment at this level. Referees are required to:
- Have acheived WSO Level 2 and held this qualification for a minimum period of 12 months. Referees who show sufficient aptitude can be fast tracked.
- Complete the practical assessments as per the Referees Management Plan below.
- A summary of the requirements can be found here WSO Level 3 Referee Summary Requirements
- Upon completion of the relevant Level 3 practical requirements, SNZ Referee Director will request WSO Endorsement of the Referee
- Referee to pay fee for WSO Level 3
Step 4: Regional Referee WSO Level 4
Squash New Zealand supports qualified national Level 3 referees to progress towards WSO Level 4 (Regional) Referee status. Becoming a WSO Level 4 referee allows referees the opportunity to take part in Regional and other relevant international events.
Step 5: World Referee – WSO Level 5
WSO Level 4 referees who demonstrate exceptional skills and commitment must meet all the requirements detailed in the competency-based training and assessment programme for WSO Level 5 Referees.
Learn More about Joining the Refereeing Pathway
Interested in jumping into the refereeing pathway or learning more about how you can get started as a referee at any level? Complete the form below and we will get in touch with opportunities and more information.
