Under pressure: an integrative review of the challenges facing young sport officials

Purpose/Rationale This paper reviews and synthesises research on young sport officials, addressing limited understanding of their experiences, development, wellbeing and retention.Design/Methodology/Approach Using PRISMA-informed procedures, an integrative review examined a fragmented evidence base. Searches across five databases, supplemented by snowballing, identified 19 peer-reviewed studies published between 1993 and 2025, covering officials aged 12–29 across multiple sports and mainly European, North American and Australian contexts.Findings Four interrelated themes were identified: officiating environments and interpersonal dynamics; psychological and emotional wellbeing; skill development, training and knowledge; and retention and continuity. Across individual, organisational and community levels, young officials were central to youth sport but faced abuse, stress, role ambiguity and inconsistent support. Mentoring, supportive climates, holistic training and clear pathways strengthened confidence, wellbeing and continued involvement.Practical Implications Sport organisations should coordinate safeguarding, age-appropriate training, psychological support, mentoring, recognition, clear development pathways and culture change.Research Contribution The review consolidates a limited evidence base, develops a thematic framework linking individual, organisational and community levels, and identifies priorities for longitudinal, theory-informed and intervention-based research.Originality/Value The paper positions young sport officiating as a workforce, safeguarding and positive youth development issue.