Mick,
Great post on Daily Squash Report, i.e. "Stop the "Let" Fest."
I've written quite a bit on the subject, but specifically, (if you've not already done it) check out this thread on Squash Site's "Let's Talk" http://www.squash.me.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=250.
Regarding your post, I do believe that for most of the big events, the referees DO get paid, albeit a small stipend plus expenses. And...I don't believe the "players" are asked to referee too often. That's certainly not a good thing, to be sure.
In your last paragraph regarding where the money would come from to "employ" a group of "qualified" professional referees, I've suggested VERY often that a percentage of the prize money (I know, it's not a lot compared with tennis or golf) for that purpose.
It would be different if the retired professionals would think of "giving back" to the game by become referees, as do former Olympians from the sports of figure skating and gymnastics do.
If there were "enough" money involved, perhaps they'd give it some consideration. Can you imagine the players of today arguing against the decisions made by the likes of Jahangir, Jansher, the Martin brothers, Peter, Jonathon, Chris Dittmar, Heather McKay, Susan DeVoy, Michelle Martin, Sarah Fitz-Gerald, etc! I don't think so, ha, ha!
Keep those great posts coming - and all the best,
Bob Hanscom, LA squash professional (retired)
Hi Bob,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your feedback.
I am aware the official referees get ‘paid’ at the major events – but it’s such a small amount ($50 / day?) it’s not even worth mentioning. It basically covers their expenses as I pointed out in the article.
I did think about where the money could come from to pay referees- and tournament funds was one option – but taking money away from the players who aren’t earning that much to begin with probably would upset many people. I would like to know PSA’s and WSF’s financials and see if the money could come out of their budget – I am sure there are areas where they are spending too much. Who is getting overpaid in those organizations? Or is taking too many trips? However, without seeing it, I can’t exactly make that claim.
Players may also think about ‘giving back’ to the game if they could retire on their winnings. They can’t. Most of them have to continue working in some capacity, so it is unrealistic to expect them to donate their time to do a job as thankless as refereeing unless there is good money to be made.
Cheers
Mick
Well Mick...no one is asking the retired PSA players to "donate" their time refereeing. As you mention, perhaps it IS time to take a look at the PSA's and WSF's "financials" to evaluate what THAT story is! And...if not taking money from the prize purse, what about from the promoters, having a percentage of the audience "take" go to the referees! Say what!?
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