What does an "officiated match" in volleyball entail?

An "officiated match" in volleyball specifically refers to a match that is overseen by certified referees. These officials are responsible for ensuring that the game adheres to the established rules and regulations of volleyball. This includes enforcing rules regarding player conduct, scoring, and game flow, as well as making crucial decisions on plays, such as faults, out-of-bounds calls, and other critical game situations.

The presence of certified referees contributes to the integrity and fairness of the match, as they are trained to interpret the rules accurately and apply them consistently throughout the game. This level of oversight is essential for competitive play, where adherence to regulations is critical for the safety of the athletes and the legitimacy of the competition.

In contrast, matches without officiating, where there are no officials overseeing the game, could lead to disputes on calls and lack the structure that referees provide. This is why the concept of an "officiated match" is fundamentally about having qualified personnel in place to ensure all players are competing under the same set of rules.