This book offers an evidence-based guide to the development, management and retention of sports officials. Drawing on research at all levels of sport, from grassroots to professional, the book focuses on best practice, for sports officials and for anybody involved in the management or training of sports officials.

The book is divided into three sections. The first takes a close look at who sports officials are, their motivations, and the formal and informal organisational relationships that define an official's position in sport. The second examines the factors that can keep an official engaged in their sport, from building healthy cultures and good physical preparation, to mentoring and mental health. The final section looks at the development of officials to elite level, including effective communication, improving decision making, interpreting rules and laws, and career pathways. With case studies, real-life examples and the voices of practising officials included throughout the book, it introduces core concepts and best practice applicable across sports and different national and international contexts.

This is an essential reference for all sports officials and for practitioners and policy-makers working in sports organisations at all levels.