I had my first experience as a ref at a local meet a week ago.
On one hand, I wanted to see all lifters succeed. It’s heartbreaking to watch someone fall flat on their face. On the other hand, I had an obligation to honor and follow the rules of the sport. Reality is it wasn’t as black-and-white as I thought.
All three white lights and all three red lights had one thing in common: Both were easy to judge. These were black-and-white.
Then there were some gray areas. There were some lifts where I white lighted the lifter and the other two refs red lighted (and vice versa). And there were some lifts where two of us white lighted while the third red lighted (and vice versa).
Now I understand why three refs are needed. There is no time to consult with one another as judgement is immediately required after the command ‘down’ is given.
I know one thing for sure: This experience gave me greater appreciation for the sport. And I hope it will only make me a better coach.
HoofGripWL 