Judging: The Basics

Judging at an event does not begin and end with a judge call. A judge must be present and attentive throughout a tournament to ensure that it proceeds smoothly. Players look to judges not only to maintain fair play but also as a resource for information regarding the event, questions regarding interactions, requests for accommodations, and, sometimes, presence as a mediator when situations get heated.

Judges need a few skills to facilitate these roles and responsibilities. Among them are:

1. Impartiality

2. Communication

3. Teamwork

4. Professionalism

5. Game Knowledge

While many of the thresholds for advancing through the judge program measure game knowledge, the reality is that much of judging goes beyond the rulebook and policy documents.