ABOUT THE REFEREE OMBUDSMAN COMMITTEE
The Ombudsman Committee is an independent committee of the Referees Commission committed to protecting the rights of referees and promoting accountability. We handle complaints, refer referees to resources that can assist them, and provide recommendations to improve systems and processes.
Our Mission
To provide a fair and accessible service to address grievances, ensure accountability, and promote good governance.
Our Values
Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of honesty and ethical conduct.
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Impartiality: We remain neutral and unbiased in all our dealings regarding referee complaints and disputes.
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Confidentiality: We respect the privacy of all parties involved in complaints.
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Accessibility: We ensure our services are available to all referees.
What is an Ombuds?
The Ombuds are independent, impartial officials who address complaints and issues made by individuals/groups within the referee cadre. The role of an ombuds is to ensure fairness, accountability, and transparency regarding issues concerning referees.
Recommending Solutions
We provide recommendations for corrective actions or improvements in policies and procedures.
Advocating for Fair Practices
We work to promote good governance and ethical practices.
Providing information
We work as a point of contact for referees who need direction regarding who to talk to, or what processes to enact if there is an issue.
Ombuds typically operate with a high degree of independence and confidentiality to ensure that they can conduct their duties without undue influence. Our findings and recommendations, while usually not binding, carry some moral and persuasive weight to decision makers in USA Fencing (this may include the Referees Commission, the Board of Directors and/or the National Office).