Building the skills and equipment behind the game
Good referees and officials help make paintball safe, fair and enjoyable. They enforce the rules, check equipment, make decisions during play and keep games and tournaments running smoothly.
Malta currently does not have a fully trained local referee crew. Some Malta Paintball members have refereeing experience from the United Kingdom, Asia and the United States. That experience gives us a valuable starting point, but we need a trained team able to officiate consistently and support tournaments in Malta.
Training local referees
We aim to establish a structured referee training program in 2027. We plan to bring experienced, appropriately qualified referees from abroad to deliver training and help develop a local crew. Potential trainers may come from the United Kingdom, elsewhere in Europe, the United States or Asia.
Training will combine classroom learning with practical work on the field. Participants will develop skills in rules, safety procedures, field positioning, communication, making consistent calls and working as part of an officiating team.
The applicable rules and procedures will depend on the competition format. Our aim is to develop officials who can work to the relevant requirements for UPBF Nations Cup events, NXL X-Ball and CPPS tournaments in the United Kingdom.
Equipment for safe, consistent tournaments
Running a tournament to internationally recognised standards takes more than trained referees. Officials need equipment to check player safety and marker performance, manage game timing and scoring, and communicate decisions clearly.
The equipment we are working to secure includes chronographs for checking marker velocity, referee uniforms, game timers, scoring equipment and scoreboards, buzzers used for scoring, and shelter for officials working at the field. We will also need the other practical equipment required to operate a tournament safely and reliably.
We are applying for grant support to help fund referee training and equipment. Funding has not yet been confirmed, so delivery will depend on the grants and other support we are able to secure.
Supporting a local league
As Malta Paintball works towards establishing a local league, a trained group of referees and officials will be essential. Developing this capacity in Malta will help us run games safely and consistently, create skilled volunteer opportunities and build a stronger foundation for local competition.
Our goal is to develop a local crew that can support ongoing competitions and continue learning through experience, training and connections with the international paintball community. We want our events to reflect international best practice and follow the rules of the format being played.
Get involved
We welcome interest from members and supporters who would like to learn more about refereeing or event officiating. You do not need previous experience to express interest. Contact Malta Paintball to find out about training opportunities and how you can contribute.
Program status
The referee and officials development program is in development. Malta Paintball aims to begin structured training in 2027. Trainer participation, equipment purchases and delivery of the program depend on funding, availability and other support.
Who We Are
Every decision we make is shaped by a clear sense of purpose. Our journey has been anything but ordinary. Through every step, we've focused on staying true to our values and making space for thoughtful, lasting work.
We believe in simple ideas, strong relationships, and lasting impact. What began as a passion project has evolved into something more. We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead.