BECOME A SCORING OFFICIAL OR SCORING SYSTEM TECHNICIAN
There are two types of officials that are involved with ensuring the accuracy and integrity of scores at sanctioned competitions: the scoring official (SO) and the scoring system technician (SST).
The scoring official's role begins weeks, sometimes months, before a competition. Working with the local organizing committee (LOC) and the chief referee, scoring officials:
- ensure that the U.S. Figure Skating calculation software is set up properly, the scores are entered accurately, and the results are calculated correctly.
- provide the judges, referees, technical panel and other officials with documents necessary for fulfilling their roles.
- provide U.S. Figure Skating the final results and placements so that overall skater rankings and advancement can be determined.
Scoring system technicians specialize in the setup and operation of the rink side computer equipment utilized for automated scoring under the International Judging System (IJS). The SST:
- sets up, tests, and takes down the scoring system equipment used at competitions.
- sits rink side during the competition to operate the scoring system and to trouble shoot and resolve any issues that arise.
- works with the event referee, technical panel, music coordinator, and announcer to ensure the smooth running of each event.
WHO can become a scoring official or scoring system technician?
Anyone (including active competitors) willing and able to uphold the ethical standards of U.S. Figure Skating can become a scoring official or SST. These officials are passionate about our sport, give their time before and after competitions and onsite during events. They strive to continuously learn and support U.S. Figure Skating and serve our athletes. You must be at least 18 years old and a fully compliant official before you can apply for your Level 1 appointment. You may apply to be an associate scoring official or SST at 16 to start your scoring journey.
WHAT levels of scoring officials are there?
- Associate scoring official
- Level 1 scoring official
- Level 2 scoring official
- National scoring official
WHAT levels of scoring system technicians are there?
- Associate SST
- Level 1 SST
- Level 2 SST
- National SST
HOW can I become a scoring official or scoring system technician?
- First, you must become SkateSafe® compliant. You can then volunteer at least once in a scoring room or sit rink side at a competition to experience the process. Next, apply to be an associate. You may choose a scoring mentor who will help guide you, or one will be assigned to you. Being a scoring official or SST means being a part of a team, and you will have support from the scoring community to help you reach your first appointment.
WHERE can I begin to get the necessary experience for a scoring appointment?
- Learn to Skate USA® events, nonqualifying and National Qualifying Series (NQS) competitions are a great start. Reach out to your local clubs that hold events. Ask the local organizing committee (LOC) if you may volunteer in the scoring room or rink side. If you cannot locate a competition, we can help you find one!
WHEN can I become a scoring official or SST?
- Skating will always be around, and U.S. Figure Skating will always need officials! You need to decide when you have the time and ability to prepare and fulfill the required activity for your desired appointment(s). Educational opportunities in scoring are offered via training modules, virtual and in-person schools (if time and location allows) every year.
WHY should I become an official?
- This is the most important question! Everyone’s “why” is a little different, but it is an honor and a privilege to serve as a U.S. Figure Skating official You get the opportunity to be involved and give back to a sport you love while building long-lasting relationships with a community of your peers who share a similar passion. Whether your role is with your local clubs or as a national official, there is a place for you as a U.S. Figure Skating official.
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