Instant Replay Official
An Instant Replay Official is a sports professional who reviews video footage during games to help make or confirm important decisions. They use special video equipment to watch plays from multiple angles, helping ensure correct calls are made during sporting events. Think of them as video referees who work alongside on-field officials. This role has become increasingly important in modern sports as technology has advanced, appearing in major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. They're sometimes called Video Review Officials, Replay Officials, or Video Assistant Referees (VAR) in soccer.
Examples in Resumes
Served as Instant Replay Official for 200+ collegiate basketball games
Led Video Review Official operations for regional football conference
5 years experience as Replay Official in professional baseball
Typical job title: "Instant Replay Officials"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Instant Replay Officials
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where you need to make a quick decision on a controversial play during a nationally televised game?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate strong decision-making ability under pressure, knowledge of all relevant rules, and clear communication protocols with other officials and broadcast teams.
Q: What experience do you have training other replay officials?
Expected Answer: Should show leadership experience, ability to develop training programs, and track record of mentoring junior officials in replay procedures and decision-making.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What process do you follow when reviewing a challenged play?
Expected Answer: Should explain systematic approach to replay review, including checking multiple angles, applying relevant rules, and making timely decisions.
Q: How do you stay updated with rule changes and replay regulations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss ongoing education, attendance at officiating clinics, participation in rules discussions, and regular review of case studies.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is your experience with video replay equipment?
Expected Answer: Should show basic understanding of replay technology, ability to operate standard replay equipment, and knowledge of basic review procedures.
Q: What are the reviewable plays in your primary sport?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic rules regarding which plays can be reviewed and basic replay protocols for their sport.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic operation of replay equipment
- Knowledge of reviewable plays
- Understanding of sport-specific rules
- Basic communication with other officials
Mid (2-5 years)
- Quick decision-making under pressure
- Advanced knowledge of replay systems
- Clear communication with broadcast teams
- Thorough understanding of all game situations
Senior (5+ years)
- Training and mentoring other officials
- Managing high-pressure situations
- Expert knowledge of rules and regulations
- Leadership in replay operations
Red Flags to Watch For
- Limited knowledge of sport-specific rules
- Poor communication skills
- Inability to make quick decisions under pressure
- Lack of experience with video technology
- No background in sports officiating
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