What authority does the referee have regarding situations not covered in the NFHS Rule Book?

The referee has the authority to rule on situations not covered in the NFHS Rule Book. This means that when faced with an unprecedented situation or ambiguity, the referee must use their judgment to make a decision that maintains the spirit of the sport and adheres to the principles of fair play.

Referees are trained to interpret rules and make calls that protect the athletes' safety and uphold the integrity of the competition. This capability ensures that matches can continue smoothly even when unexpected incidents arise. By making a ruling, the referee demonstrates their role as the final authority on the mat, ensuring that all decisions made are in the best interest of the athletes and the sport.

The other options suggest either inaction, seeking external opinions, or deferring decisions, which would hinder the effectiveness of officiating and could lead to further confusion or interruptions during the match.