Referees

On reaching a consensus, the judges should indicate their agreement with a nod of the head. The referee must make sure that all discussion is finished and that he or she has a complete understanding of the decision before the judges return to their corners.

Referees must be confident in the calls they make. However, there will be times that the two judges may overrule the referee. Based on position, the judges may have a better view of the action and therefore better able to make a evaluation. Accepting the decision of the judges does not undermine the referee's authority, and must be done without argument. Judges must respect the authority of the referee and allow for an acceptable degree of latitude on calls and decisions. A judge must refrain from differing on every call unless grave errors are continually made. Disagreeing on every call reflects very poorly on the judge and diminishes the team's integrity. A referee in this case may begin to have concern over the judge's continual interference and the strain that this is placing on the team's cohesiveness.

In regional events, less experienced referees are often "teamed up" with veterans to create an overall strong team. This allows the less seasoned referee the opportunity to gain ring experience under the supervision and guidance of more experienced judges. In these situations, the assistance and intervention of the judges may be more prevalent and is acceptable.