Volunteers

Essential to the success of the Shore Bowl are the many volunteers that take time out of their schedules every year to attend training sessions, assist with logistical support, and serve as officials on the day of the event.

Volunteers take on many roles, but the majority of them are needed to serve as competition officials. Each competition room has a team of five officials – rules judge, moderator, scientific judge, timekeeper, and scorekeeper.

In order to be effective as officials, all volunteers are asked to attend a brief training session prior to the day of competition. These training sessions provide background information, as well as place officials in real competition situations to familiarize them with the competition rules and procedures.

Room officials have specific roles. These roles include:

Rules Judges (151k PDF) - must know and enforce all the competition rules (690k PDF) in the game room

Moderators (94k PDF) - must be able to read clearly, quickly, correctly pronounce scientific terms, and keep the competition running smoothly

Science Judges (135k PDF) - must have a technical background (generally a graduate degree) in marine (or related) sciences, and be prepared to address challenges from participating students regarding the scientific content of questions and answers

Timekeepers (126k PDF) - must be able to stay focused on competition time (and not be distracted by the questions), know the rules that apply, and control a stop watch and digital clock

Scorekeepers (116k PDF) - if you can add, subtract and pay attention, you’re all set!

In addition to the volunteers in the competition rooms, the NOSB also needs scientists and other individuals to staff the central judging room, and help with set up and registration. For a general look at volunteer positions and competition structure, see the Volunteer Handout (65k PDF).

For more information about volunteering please contact Gina Petruzzelli.