EPBF and APBU launches Referee Exchange Program

Submitted by Alison Chang 

In 2015, the EPBF (European Pocket Billiard Federation) and the APBU (Asian Pocket Billiard Union) launched its new Referee Exchange Program. The two EPBF Senior Referees, Laszlo Zabo (HUN) and Danilo Hebestreit (GER) came to Asia and to work at the 2015 Amway Spring International Women Open in Taipei. 

At the same time, two Asian referees will working at the European Championships for Men, Women and Wheelchair athletes in Vale de Lobo, Portugal. Therefore the referee exchange program will definitely be another tool to raise the level of refereeing at all parties involved. 

The following are a short Q & A interview with the EPBF Senior Referees, Laszlo Zabo (HUN) and Danilo Hebestreit (GER).  

Q: How do you think about the referee Exchange Program?  

A: I think it’s very useful. Basically pool is pool, so in the game there’s not much difference. But we experienced some new matters, like making mark on the table. But in Europe, every table is computerized, so players can keep their own scores, time-outs…there’s no paper in the restriction. Every table is covered by an internet camera, so everyone can follow every table’s happening. Referees are referees here and there. Our colleagues have accepted us as friends from Europe in the same profession. 

Q: What is the biggest difference between Europe and Asia?  

A: I think the biggest difference our colleagues from Asia will experience in EC is that most of time they have to do area referee, not table referee. In EC an area ref sometimes will oversight 5, or 6 table sat one time. The system is different. The act of referee is different. Area referees act upon the players’ request, as table referees do everything on spot. They will be accustomed soon for that. A big difference in Europe we’re not allowed to use the video replay to determine whether it is a foul or not. Here it is allowed and it’s a good thing for referees. In Europe we have to decide at the very moment despite the game is recorded on TV。 

 In the referee’s act, the shot clock countdown is not done by the referee, but there’s a shot clock keeper in Europe. We just watch the table. 

Secondly, we don’t have the movements. For example, we rise our hands with the shot clock, which could be disturbing for the players. I think there would be simpler solution than this gymnastic in my opinion. 

Q: What is the impression of Taiwan? 

A: Taiwan is nice. It’s clean. People are friendly. 

It’s my second time in Taiwan. The 1st time is just 2 days, as a businessman two years ago. It’s quite a pity that we haven’t seen much so far, except the hotel and venue. But we are planning to have some exploration on Sunday or Monday.