Line Judges

Role overview

The line judge is responsible for indicating whether a shuttle has landed “in” or “out” when the shuttle lands near the line(s) they have been assigned to monitor. Line judges work as a team, and maintain communication with the umpire by eye contact, staying focused on their task and making prompt and clear line calls. Depending on the level of tournament, there may be as many as 10 line judges assigned to a court for a particular match.

Development and courses

Anyone with a basic understanding of the rules of badminton can start practicing as a line judge. Those who enjoy this experience may choose to pursue a line judge qualification. With practice and dedication, in just a few years it is possible to reach an international qualification and get appointments to higher level tournaments.

Line judge courses are relatively infrequent and are organised based on demand. The course takes approximately 4 hours and covers all the key regulations and practical aspects of line judging. Please contact toc@badmintonwa.org.au if you are interested in attending a line judge course or if you want to find out more.

The course is followed by a written theory exam which can take approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Once the candidate passes the theory exam, a practical assessment will be organised. This takes place during one of the state level tournaments, when the assessor observes the candidate during a set number of matches. The candidate must demonstrate that they are competent in all aspects of line judging.

Qualification levels and pathways

·         Badminton Australia National Line Judge Qualification Procedures

·         Badminton Oceania Line Judge Qualification Procedure

·         Badminton Oceania Technical Officials Pathway

Resources

·         BWF Line Judges’ Manual

·         BWF Laws of Badminton

·         BWF Instructions to Technical Officials (section 8)

List of qualified line judges