When should a referee check for player eligibility?

A referee should check for player eligibility before the start of the match to ensure that all participants meet the required criteria, including age, identification, and any other specific league or tournament regulations. This is crucial as it prevents ineligible players from participating, which could affect the integrity of the match and the competition as a whole. Checking eligibility in advance allows the referee to address any issues before play begins, ensuring a fair and compliant matchup.

Other times, such as after the first half, during timeouts, or at the end of the match, are typically not appropriate moments for checking eligibility because they can disrupt the flow of the game and don’t allow for proper pre-match preparations. This proactive approach to eligibility helps maintain the standards set by the governing bodies of the sport and promotes fair play among all teams involved.