Which official observes and assists the main referee during a fencing match?

The assistant referee, often referred to as the corner judge, plays a vital role in a fencing match by closely observing the bout and supporting the main referee in making decisions. This official helps ensure that all rules of the sport are followed, watches for infractions or fouls, and can provide additional perspectives during critical moments of the match. The assistant referee’s observations can be crucial during close calls, allowing for a more informed and fair adjudication process.

The responsibilities of the head referee differ, as their primary role is to make final decisions and oversee the match. The timekeeper's focus is specifically on managing the duration of the match and ensuring that time limits are adhered to, while the scorekeeper is responsible for accurately recording scores and outcomes. Both these roles support the match's administration but do not actively participate in the on-field decisions or rule enforcement, which is the essence of the assistant referee's duties.