World Snooker Championship referees play a crucial role in ensuring the fairness and integrity of the game. These highly skilled professionals are responsible for enforcing the rules, keeping the players on track, and maintaining a sense of order and decorum at the table. Here are ten of the most respected and experienced referees in snooker today, along with a brief introduction to each:
Also, read about best snooker commentators.
Jan Verhaas
A Dutch referee with over 25 years of experience in the game, Jan Verhaas is widely considered to be one of the best in the business. His calm and confident demeanor, combined with his extensive knowledge of the rules, make him a favorite among players and fans alike.
Brendan Moore
A veteran referee from Northern Ireland, Brendan Moore has officiated at some of the biggest snooker tournaments in the world, including the World Championship and the UK Championship. Known for his fairness and consistency, he is a trusted and respected figure in the snooker community.
Paul Collier
With over 20 years of experience as a snooker referee, Paul Collier is a familiar face to fans of the game. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to maintain a sense of order and decorum on the table.
Olivier Marteel
Based in Belgium, Olivier Marteel is one of the most experienced referees in snooker today, having officiated at numerous major tournaments over the course of his career. His calm and authoritative presence on the table inspires confidence and respect among players and fans alike.
Michaela Tabb
As the first female referee to officiate at the World Snooker Championship, Michaela Tabb has helped to break down barriers and pave the way for other women in the sport. Her skill, professionalism, and dedication have earned her the respect and admiration of players and fans around the world.
Leo Scullion
A Scottish referee with over 20 years of experience, Leo Scullion is known for his quick wit and his ability to defuse tense situations on the table. His love of the game and his dedication to fairness and sportsmanship have made him a beloved figure among players and fans alike.
Terry Camilleri
Based in Australia, Terry Camilleri has officiated at some of the biggest snooker tournaments in the world, including the World Championship and the Masters. His professionalism, attention to detail, and friendly demeanor make him a popular choice among players and fans alike.
Marcel Eckardt
As the head referee for the German Snooker Masters, Marcel Eckardt is a respected figure in the European snooker community. His dedication to fairness and his ability to maintain order on the table have earned him the trust and respect of players and fans alike.
Eirian Williams
With over 25 years of experience as a snooker referee, Eirian Williams is one of the most respected and experienced officials in the game today. He has officiated at numerous major tournaments around the world, and his professionalism and dedication have made him a trusted and respected figure in the snooker community.
Colin Humphries
A veteran referee from England, Colin Humphries has officiated at numerous World Snooker events over the course of his career. His calm and authoritative presence on the table and his deep knowledge of the game make him a popular and respected figure among players and fans alike.
These ten World Snooker Championship referees represent the very best of snooker officiating, each bringing their own unique skills and personalities to the table. Whether you’re a player, a fan, or simply an admirer of the game, their dedication to fairness, sportsmanship, and professionalism helps to make snooker the thrilling and exciting sport that it is today.