What role does a referee play in calling an "official timeout"?

The role of a referee in calling an "official timeout" primarily involves addressing player penalties or equipment checks. When the referee observes a situation that requires immediate attention—such as a player who may need to serve a penalty, an injury that needs assessment, or equipment that is malfunctioning—they have the authority to stop the game. This official timeout ensures that the integrity of the game is maintained, as it allows for necessary interventions to be made without compromising the safety of the players or the flow of the bout.

In contrast, managing player substitutions, adjusting the score, or enforcing team strategies falls outside the direct responsibilities of a referee during an official timeout. Substitutions are typically handled by the teams, scoring is managed through the game’s established procedures, and strategies are implemented by the teams themselves. The referee's focus during an official timeout is strictly on maintaining fairness and safety, which reinforces the importance of their role in managing player conditions and adherence to game rules.