What technique can help a referee ensure fairness in edge of the mat calls?

Maintaining good positioning and sight lines is crucial for a referee to make accurate and fair calls, especially near the edge of the mat. By positioning themselves appropriately, a referee can better observe the action and determine the positions of the wrestlers relative to the boundaries. This visibility allows the referee to see whether a wrestler has established control, whether a scoring move has occurred, or if a violation has taken place in that critical area.

Good positioning also aids in quickly assessing the athletes’ actions while minimizing obstructions from other players and the mat itself. This enhanced awareness directly supports the referee's ability to make informed decisions, fostering a fair competition environment.

Options like ignoring minor infractions undermine the integrity of the sport, while relying solely on technology may not always be feasible or comprehensive in a live match setting. Similarly, delegating calls to other referees can lead to inconsistencies and confusion, detracting from a single referee's responsibility to manage the match effectively. Thus, maintaining excellent positioning and clear sight lines is the most effective technique for a referee to ensure fairness in edge-of-the-mat calls.