Accra, Feb. 29, GNA – Ray Quarcoo, President of the Ghana Amateur Boxing Federation (GABF) has proposed the institution of match review systems to analyse the performance of judges and referees after each boxing competition.
This, he said should be instituted at both amateur and professional levels to ensure the highest standard of officiating in the country for the boxing sport.
Speaking in an interview with GNA Sports, Mr Quarcoo suggested that such a system should cover all areas such as the performance of ring officials and judges during competitions, adding that complaints from many fans after last Saturday’s international boxing bout at the Accra Sports Stadium gives credence to the fact that standards of officiating has depreciated .
Mr Quarcoo said that officiating must be taken serious in planning for the development of the sport since it is a significant aspect of the game.
According to Quarcoo, stakeholders need to hold post-fight review meetings to analyse performance of ring officials and judges to make the needed corrections for the future.
He was of the view that since the officials control the progress of the sport, they must be seen to be independent minded, honest and fair and without reproach.
“A referee has to be prepared when he enters a boxing ring to prevent boxers from breaking the rules and ensure that they score perfect points.
“A boxing referee’s job is central to the success of the fight. He can make and unmake matches and his decision makes the difference at the end of the match, hence the need for proper training background as an essential ingredient.
Citing last Saturday’s title fights organised under the platform of Golden Mike Promotions Syndicate, dubbed “Moment of Truth, as an example, Quarcoo said, “if we are really serious to take the sport to the desired heights, then our referees and other officials, like any other professionals require a more structured training, good vision, and quick reflexes.
“They must be equipped with a thorough knowledge of the sport, its rules and regulations and above all, appropriate remuneration to enhance their professionalism and better performance than what transpired that night”. He stated.
