Per Morten Sodal, the head of the Referee Commission of the World Handball Federation, participated in the seminar organized by the Association of Handball Referees over the weekend in Podgorica, as announced by the Handball Federation of Montenegro (RSCG).

The seminar brought together not only referees but also delegates, recorders, and timekeepers, serving as a precursor to the upcoming competitive season in Montenegrin handball.

In an interview with the RSCG website, Sodal remarked that Montenegro is a nation with a rich handball heritage, stating this is evident “not only from the achievements of its national teams but also from having six international referee pairs, with the Pavićević-Ražnatović duo being part of the elite IHF group, which is a point of pride.”

At the seminar’s outset, Petar Kapisoda, President of the Handball Association of Montenegro, received a certificate of appreciation from the Community, presented by the Community’s Management Board President, Predrag Pavićević.

What are your thoughts after attending a seminar of a referee organization, especially as the head referee of the IHF?

“This seminar was extremely well-organized. Since Montenegro gained independence, it has consistently produced excellent international judges. Witnessing so many referees gathered in one place fosters a shared message, builds team spirit, and promotes better relationships among them. I have no complaints, though perhaps the results of the running tests could have been improved.”

Montenegro may be small, but it boasts a rich handball history. This also applies to our referees, as they have six pairs with European badges and three with the World Handball Federation badge, alongside Ivan Pavićević and Miloš Ražnatović who are in the IHF elite group?

“Montenegro is indeed a handball country; you played in the Olympic final in 2012 against my national team and also won the European Championship that year. Iceland reached the Olympic final too, proving that a country’s size does not determine success. It all comes down to hard work, which applies to referees as well—they must continually improve to achieve great outcomes. Your country has six international referee pairs, a fact to be prouder of than it currently appears. Within the IHF, we have referees who are among the elite, and the Pavićević-Ražnatović duo belongs to this privileged group. I met them in 2001 when I was a referee myself.

You have six international referee pairs now, but it’s crucial to consider the future, as these referees cannot have indefinite careers. Recently, you’ve also brought in a second pair of female referees with the EHF badge, which is wonderful news and an affirmation that Montenegro can continue to have referees at the international level in the future.”

What do you see as the biggest challenge for referees considering the game’s pace and the new rules that have made handball more appealing?

“Today’s handball presents numerous challenges; there needs to be a keen focus on excessive reactions or simulations, as sometimes it appears theatrical, with players trying to sway referees’ decisions. We must address this, for our sport is physically demanding yet requires fairness. Decisions regarding whether an offense occurred within six meters, steps taken, or other nuanced situations are becoming increasingly challenging as the game speeds up. It’s our duty to prepare referees comprehensively. The IHF is actively working on this and collaborating with coaches and commissions to clarify all topics ahead of major competitions, as we did for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.”

You recently decided to raise the age limit for referees from 50 to 55. Does this imply that referees are now more physically fit, or is it more about the shortage of quality refereeing pairs?

“That is an excellent question. Adjusting the age limit is not about wanting existing elite referees to stay on the biggest stages longer; it’s about recognizing that many referees maintain outstanding physical condition even at 55, often better than some younger counterparts. There were discussions about potentially removing the age limit entirely, a practice already in place in some other sports. While it’s rare to see referees over 50 at the world championships or the Olympics, those who do reach that level tend to be exceptional. We acknowledge the importance of both experienced and seasoned referees over the age of 50. However, if it comes down to trusting a pair that’s crossed that age threshold versus a 38-year-old of the same caliber, I would prefer to choose the younger referees as they represent our future.”

What message do you have for young referees in Montenegro who are just starting in this challenging field?

“Patience and composure! These attributes are essential, as young individuals today often struggle with impatience, juggling family, work, and various other commitments. Transitioning from regional levels to the Olympic Games is not an easy journey; it requires an incremental approach. If you aspire to officiate at the Games, you must exhibit strength and determination to reach the highest levels. Set concrete goals, work diligently to achieve them, and maintain faith in yourself,” concluded Per Morten Sodal in his interview with the RSCG website.

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