Score table officials, or scorers for short, are responsible for recording the scores, fouls and timeouts that occur in a game, as well as keeping track of the timing.
There are multiple positions that a scorer can fill:
- Chairperson
- Scoresheet
- Game clock
- Shot clock
- Visuals
Not only do score table officials have to be able to communicate with each other, but they must also work as a team with the referees and statisticians. During a game, a referee may communicate with the chairperson to clarify important information about the game. The chairperson is responsible for overseeing all the positions on the score table. It’s a great role for learning and developing leadership skills.
Scoretable officials work in a fast-paced environment, needing to watch what is happening, record information, communicate and listen for requests from teams.
Skills required and developed
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication
- Quick decision-making
- Perform under pressure
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
- Giving and receiving feedback
Why become a scorer
Like refereeing, scoring requires a team, and depending on the competition, this will be between 2 and 5 people. That means it is a great opportunity to make life-long friends with people who share your love of the game. Scoring is also very challenging, as the game moves very quickly and you are trying to record data and manage team requests. However, with the support of your fellow officials and a little practice, you will quickly pick up the skills required.
Scorer pathway
