technical Officials (ITO's)
Overview
International Technical Officials (ITO) are accredited to officiate at international events. ITO’s can officiate at all domestic events in New Zealand.
An ITO is an experienced umpire who has developed a high degree of competence, awareness, and skill in the application of the laws and the use of measuring equipment. ITOs officiate at World Bowls events such as the World Championships and the Commonwealth Games.
Prerequisites
Candidates must be able to demonstrate extensive umpiring experience and a high degree of competence in their knowledge of the laws, use of measuring equipment, marking, and umpiring self-awareness. Candidates must be a current Level Two Umpire and have their application endorsed by the Bowls New Zealand Umpires Committee.
Training
Preparing for accreditation as an ITO is not managed by way of a formal training programme. ITO candidates are expected to have a higher degree of competency, awareness, skill, and experience in both the application of the laws and the use of measuring equipment. In addition, candidates should also have experience as a marker.
Accreditation
Candidates will sit an exam once they feel confident and ready.
The exam will comprise of the following sections:
- Fifteen written questions on the Laws of the Sport.
- In the role of a marker, giving their opinion on the distance between the jack and a bowl in three head settings and giving their opinion on which bowls are shot in a further three head settings.
- Act as the marker during a Singles game comprising four ends.
- Carry out five measures whilst operating on their own.
- Carry out four measures whilst being assisted by another umpire
Re-Accreditation
ITO’s who wish to remain accredited will sit the re-accreditation examination every five years. This is managed by World Bowls.
Have you got what it takes?
To find out more about becoming an ITO please contact the Bowls New Zealand Umpires Committee.