I would like to start this off by saying I have the utmost respect for volleyball officials. In fact, I have officiated from every position at one point or another and I know that the job is an extremely difficult one. With that being said here is a list of the seven most notable types of volleyball officials.
1. The Alpha Male
We all love to hate this guy. He is an official because he loves the power and he makes sure that he is the center of attention of every match. If he ever gets the opportunity to overturn a call expect him to triumphantly beat his chest and overrule the rest of his crew. Most importantly, don't even think about arguing with this guy because you will get carded faster than you can say "he yelled touch."
2. The Blind Line Judge
This ref is far more common than we would like and is probably the single greatest threat to a volleyball player's sanity. With this person you can never begin to celebrate too early, anything within a two feet of the line, either way, is up to chance. Don't even think about asking them for a touch call. While this ref is annoying we sometimes may feel some sympathy for them especially if they remind us of our grandparents or our younger sibling.
3. The Over Enthusiastic R2
This ref is good at what they do...too good. They watch the net like a hawk and if you so much as breath on it expect the whistle to be blown. When it comes to your rotation you better not be an inch off because you aren't getting any warnings from this ref.
4. The Newbie
From the time this ref walks into the gym you know they are in over their head. We all feel bad for this person but that doesn't stop us from doing everything we can to use them to our advantage. Expect hesitant calls, many conferences, and at least a few exasperated replays out of this one.
5. The Social Butterfly
You know this ref doesn't get out enough. Whether you are a player, coach, or parent you are never safe from a drawn out uncomfortable conversation. This character starts their commentary at the coin toss and it continues throughout the match. While awkward, it may actually get you a few calls to throw this ref a bone and chat them up.
6. The Pro
This ref's legend has spread far and wide and if you're lucky enough to get them consider yourself honored. Everything this ref does is crisp and by the book. No one feels the need to argue because you would simply be making yourself look stupid. This person was born to officiate volleyball.
7. The Fantom Ref
This ref is characterized by their perceived absence. You are never sure if this ref is blind, wants to let the players play, or literally has no clue what is going on. No matter the reason, this ref beckons and awards a point...that's it. This ref usually garners a lot of complaining at the beginning of the match but by the end, everyone has pretty much forgotten that they are even there. However, the one way for this ref to truly infuriate everyone involved is to starting making calls without warning. This brings out the time-tested "you haven't called that all game" tirade.
