1938-39

REFEREEING AND UMPIRING
581
there are one or two other points which require attention. There
are many types of boxers and fencers, and they use varying styles ;
the play is quick and at times difficult to see. A study of the
individual is therefore of great value. By this is meant that during
the first round of a boxing match or the first fight of a fencing pool
the referee should endeavour to analyse the play of the individual.
By this means he will be enabled to follow the play more easily
and to see blows land and hits arrive without consciously watching
for them. The recording of blows or. hits thus becomes almost
automatic and leaves him free to perform, perhaps, his most im-
portant duty, the correct interpretation. In both sports mentioned
a referee who is
or
has been a performer is undoubtedly the best ;
in fencing it is an essential qualification.
The powers of a referee are almost unbounded and the authority
which he has makes him the most important person on the field.
He is able to influence not only the game but also the players,
and by his personality he can ensure that the true spirit of sports-
manship and enjoyment pervades the field. The task is a hard
one, but the true sportsman will be adequately rewarded by the
realisation that he is carrying out a duty which alone makes the
game or contest possible.