Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part D (2025)

This study aimed to compare the physical performance of football referees at national and university levels by examining distance covered and running speed using GPS-based tracking technology. A total of 20 male referees (10 national-level and 10 university-level) were observed during official matches. Data were collected using Garmin GPS wristwatches, and the variables of interest were analyzed using independent samples t-tests. Results showed that while national referees covered more distance on average (7.06 km vs. 2.56 km), the difference was not statistically significant. However, national referees exhibited significantly higher running speeds (3.42 km/h vs. 2.76 km/h, p<0.05). These findings suggest that officiating at higher competition levels demands greater speed and physical conditioning. The study highlights the importance of referee-specific fitness training and supports the use of performance monitoring tools to enhance officiating standards.