Embracing the Big Stage
Welcome to issue #12 of Referee Playbook. A short letter that helps sports fans understand the view of a referee.
Unlocking Your Next Level
This month, I got to perform at national and international levels at two incredible tournaments.
My biggest reflection on both opportunities is this:
Can you perform with the same confidence and freedom on the big stage as you do within your comfort zone?
The Contrast of the Big Stage
One week, I was in Darwin at the Oceania World Cup Qualifier, umpiring Australia vs New Zealand. The next, I was in Christchurch at the National Hockey Championship umpiring Canterbury vs Wellington.
Both matches had my utmost respect, focus, and intention to perform at the highest level.
I had prepared for both:
The running
Time in the gym
Time on the yoga mat
Analysed video footage
Attended team trainings
Plenty of practice matches
You name it, I did the work to deserve to feel ready.
The Reality of The Next Level
Preparation aside, in one setting, I felt like I was in my element, invincible: Ready for anything.
The other? Tense and uncomfortable to start.
Nerves crept in under unfamiliar:
Pressure
Scrutiny, and
Expectations.
You can guess which set of circumstances applies to which match.
Here’s the truth:
Performing with the same confidence and freedom on the big stage as you do in your comfort zone is the ultimate challenge.
Crack this code, and you unlock your next level of growth, not just as a referee, but in any pursuit.
The Big Stage vs The Comfort Zone
In Darwin, the international spotlight brought added weight – new surroundings, higher stakes, judgment and assessment from new umpire managers, and the eyes of the global game.
In Christchurch, I was closer to home, in familiar territory, surrounded by lifelong friends, mentors, and coaches with less external pressure.
The difference? Mindset.
In one match, I felt like anything could happen, and I’d find a way to handle it.
In the other, nerves and external expectations tightened my grip.
Like trying to build a sandcastle on the beach, and the harder you try, the more the sand slips through your fingers.
The Referee’s Challenge
This experience has etched a universal truth into my mind:
True potential is unlocked when you perform like you’re at home – Comfortable, fearless, with nothing to lose – no matter what the stage.
Whether it’s a World Cup or a local derby, the goal is the same:
Show up as your best self, unburdened by the moment.
This isn’t just about refereeing. It’s about performance in all aspects of life.
How do we bring our A-game to unfamiliar territory?
How do we silence the noise of scrutiny and expectation?
The answer lies in shaping a mindset that feels like home, wherever you are.
The Big Stage vs The Comfort Zone
Referees and athletes face moments that test their confidence. The challenge is to treat every match - big or small - like you’re blowing the whistle in your backyard.
The place you feel at home. Where you know yourself best. Where things come naturally without forcing it, or searching.
Embrace the stakes, but don’t let them define you, or your performance.
Trust your preparation, lean into your skills, and perform with the freedom of someone who has nothing to lose.