What should a referee's pre-match duties include?

A referee's pre-match duties are crucial for ensuring that a match is conducted safely and fairly. Inspecting equipment and confirming team rosters are fundamental tasks that help establish the integrity of the match. By inspecting equipment, the referee ensures that all players have the appropriate gear, such as shin guards and proper footwear, which is essential for player safety. Additionally, confirming team rosters allows the referee to be aware of which players are eligible to participate in the match, preventing any disputes related to player eligibility during the game.

The other options, while they may seem relevant in a broader context of sports management or coaching, do not fall under the typical responsibilities of a referee. Conducting interviews with players is not a standard pre-match duty; instead, it could create potential biases or conflicts of interest. Scheduling future matches is usually the responsibility of league officials or organizers, rather than referees. Similarly, creating game strategies is within the realm of coaching, not officiating. Therefore, inspecting equipment and confirming team rosters is clearly the right focus for a referee's pre-match duties.