College physics teacher achieves dream to be intl referee

In May 2018, Pan received certification as a WT Level 1 Technical Official and became an international-level triathlon technical official.

"You should know the game inside out, from the rules, the officiating principle, the venue, to the athletes. And the most complex part is the venue setting," Pan said.

He said being exposed to multiple weather conditions in a long-distance game, it takes huge energy and strength. "But it is one of the best games ever!"

Over the years, Pan has served as a triathlon technical official at the 2nd National Youth Games, the 7th CISM Military World Games, multiple triathlon World Cups, Asia Cups and National Championships. He also has refereed in many city-level basketball games in Chongqing.

"Thanks to the inclusive sportsmanship for allowing a non-sports-major technical official like me to stand in the venue," Pan said.

"I'll stand on a higher stage one day, to give full play to my strength in serving sports events," he said.