Spencer Moss Refereeing At International Level
[Written by Stephen Wright]
When Spencer Moss volunteered to officiate in squash at the NatWest International Island Games in Bermuda in 2013, little did he know it was the start of his pathway into refereeing at the international level.
For the past ten years, Moss has enjoyed the “best seat in the house”, refereeing at regional and top international events such as the Senior Caribbean Squash Championships, the Pan American Squash Championships, the World Games, and the Pan American Games.
The Bermudian recently officiated at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, and experienced a career highlight after being selected to referee the women’s team final between the United States and Canada.
“I’ve always been interested in refereeing, but it wasn’t until the Island Games in 2013 that I started to get involved in that role,” Moss told Bernews.
“A world-class official called Dave Howard came to the island to help guide the local referees during those Games, and his mentorship over the years has been inspirational.
“From that point on, refereeing took a hold over me, and I’ve grabbed the opportunities that have come my way.
“It’s a great way to stay involved in the sport. Plus, I get to watch these great athletes up close. Some of these players are in the top ten in the world, and it’s an experience of a lifetime for someone like me.”
A Bermuda Squash Racquets Association member, Moss was invited to officiate in Santiago by Panam Sports. He also refereed at the previous Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, in 2019.
“I refereed a few individual semi-finals, men’s and women’s, and moved into the doubles [in Santiago],” Moss said.
“The pinnacle for me was being asked to referee the women’s team gold-medal event. To be chosen for such a prestigious game was the highlight.”
The 50-year-old admits he enjoys the pressure of being the person in the hot seat and insists he never shies away from making the tough calls.
“There is a pressure at times, but I wouldn’t be in those spots if I didn’t know what I was doing and confident in my ability to handle those situations,” said Moss, who started playing squash aged seven and represented Bermuda at the senior level.
With squash finally set for inclusion at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, Moss said he would relish the chance to test his decision-making and knowledge at the pinnacle of the sport.
“It will be tough to get invited to the Olympics,” he added. “Everyone will want to go to that one. There’s always a possibility, though.”
