Former Team Ruiter referee selected for second Olympic games

When glory is defined by precision, judging those fine lines require razor-sharp perception.

Sought after for his exemplary refereeing talents, Charles Villet has travelled across the globe spreading his knowledge of the wrestling mat. From Mpumalanga to the Western Cape, Tunisia to Brazil, the former Team Ruiter member’s next stop is Japan. The senior wrestling eagle-eye has been selected to be South Africa’s only wrestling referee at the upcoming Toyko 2021 Olympic games.

In early June Charles received the good news that he could begin packing his bags for the Olympic games, which begin on July 23. This will be his second sporting Olympiad after he was also selected for the 2016 event held in samba-central, Rio de Janeiro. “It was like a dream come true when I was selected for the first time to go to Rio. Now, to make it for a second time, it’s amazing to be part of it again” said the proud ref.

Still the Senior Vice-President of the South African Wrestling Association, Charles has been based near Paarl at the Cape Winelands Wrestling Club refining his skills. Qualifying referees need to attain perfect 10 out of 10 evaluations in four qualifying tournaments as well as one world championship to be eligible. “You have to be thirsty, committed and believe in yourself,” stressed Charles.

The glamour of sport is almost always associated with the athletes, without adequate acknowledgement of the officials operating on the periphery, yet their contribution is invaluable. “If you want to be a referee, start young and train by watching matches. Study other referees and always be positive,” advised Charles. As athletes push themselves to the very limit, the referee stands shoulder to shoulder, watching every move.