Referees are also a team – only with a whistle instead of a bat

David, when did you start thinking about what you would do after your playing career? Did you know early on that you wanted to become a referee?

David Cespiva: "Even during my playing days, I was thinking about what I wanted to do after my career. Back then, I had all sorts of ideas in mind, but nothing concrete. Until a friend of mine said, 'You could become a referee.' And I thought, I might as well give it a try."

Photos: City-Press

Was there a moment when you realized: “This is exactly my thing” - Or did you approach it cautiously at first?

David Cespiva: "It was definitely a bit of a trial-and-error exercise. I went to a summer camp where we got to try out different aspects of refereeing. Of course, rules study was also on the agenda – and at times I thought to myself, 'Wow, do I even know anything about ice hockey?' (laughs). I got to see the game from a completely different perspective, and that made me curious."

What physical and mental requirements would you say are necessary to be a referee in the top German ice hockey league?

David Cespiva: "You have to be as fit as a player. I keep my training schedule high so that I can always give my best. Mental strength is definitely the second pillar. As a referee, you are under a lot of pressure, you have to Fans Making decisions, and when a decision doesn't turn out as expected, things can get heated. Over time, I've learned to ignore that and focus solely on the game."

Do you eventually stop noticing headwinds at all?

David Cespiva: "It depends on the moment. I know I've done my best when I make a decision. Of course, there are always people who disagree, but that's normal. The important thing is to know what you're capable of and not let yourself be unsettled. We make our decisions in a way that contributes to fair and safe play."

Do you think referees get enough recognition for their work?

David Cespiva: "It really depends on where you are. I've noticed that you get more respect in higher leagues. The public largely recognizes the work of referees. But often people don't know what goes into it. It's hard work that's often underestimated."

How do you balance being a referee with your professional and private life?

David Cespiva: "I've completely tailored my life to it. I schedule my work so that I don't work on Fridays, so I can travel to the games. In the last few months, I've been working Fridays and Sundays, sometimes even in the middle of the week. It's a bit of a challenge, but it's also a lot of fun."

Is being a referee also a kind of team sport?

David Cespiva: "Of course. You're not the only referee—there are four of us who have to work together harmoniously. As soon as we arrive at the arena, we act as a team. When we get to the locker room, we have a briefing, like a team. We discuss how we want to line up so we can perform as best as possible together on the ice."

When you think back to your time as an active player, how do you view referees today? Has your opinion of referees changed?

David Cespiva: "Absolutely. In the past, I wasn't always so positive in my dealings with the referees. Today, I'm a little ashamed of how I behaved back then. I definitely could have been nicer or more understanding. I now realize how difficult the job is, and I have great respect for it."

What do you think prevents some players from pursuing a career as To seek referees?

David Cespiva: "Perhaps it is precisely the lack of knowledge of what it means to be a referee. That it means having fun, being a team and experiencing a lot together. How good it feels to go through difficult times together and to feel the solidarity during heated games. That is what convinced me in the end and still convinces me today. Many players probably do not know how much It’s fun to do this job.”

How do you manage to maintain neutrality when you are deployed to your former clubs or teammates?

David Cespiva: "This is always a huge topic in the press and also on social media. I completely block it out. Sometimes it is even the case that a former teammate are the most challenging and are more emotional. After the game, you shake hands, the player apologizes, and you put the whole thing behind you."

Photos: City-Press

For players who are thinking about becoming a referee: what is the fascination of refereeing?

David Cespiva: "The fascinating thing is the challenge. You drive to the game, only thinking about the upcoming encounter, a little nervousness builds up, and then you have to master the task together. It's similar to my previous games – you meet the guys in the locker room, have fun together, and just give your best. It's really a great opportunity to stay loyal to the sport."

Are you still nervous before your games?

David Cespiva: "Focused, yes, but not really nervous anymore. But I still remember my first game well. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, it wasn't a Young Talent League game, but a top-flight match. It all happened so quickly, and I got a little cold feet. I actually briefly considered faking an injury (laughs). No, just kidding, but I was very nervous."

Are there any special moments in your refereeing career that stand out in your memory?

David Cespiva: "Yes, definitely, quite a lot. One experience, for example, was in Selb, with the PlaydownsThe team that had just been relegated came to us to thank us for the fair management during the game. This shows that you can still feel appreciated even in difficult situations – these are moments that touch you deeply."

What are your personal goals for the future as a referee?

David Cespiva: "My goal is to continue developing and reaching my highest level. I'm 38 now, so I'm not the youngest anymore, but I want to set standards and give my best. It's about being an important part of the team and continuously improving."