Referees are an important part of football, so much so that they can often be the game-changing element that creates the headlines. We can’t do without these guys who choose to run with a game that will test their strength of character, knowing that every decision will be scrutinised.
Putting up with players, coaches, parents and spectators is a huge challenge for little reward. Young referees and their assistants receive good pocket money while getting fit but it truly is hard work to make decisions on the run. We really need to take our hats off to these people who choose this role in the game.
During the 7v7 competitions we’re running at college, each team has a bye every week during which they’re charged with refereeing games. The kids have really made a good start to applying the letter of the law. The added realism of referees and linesmen has given them a more challenging event, as they learn to apply the many facets that make up a football match.
The laws of the game are fairly simple on paper but when they have to be applied in practise, the difficulty for inexperienced officials becomes very apparent. Players make refereeing so much more difficult when they argue the calls or try to sway decisions in their favour. The learning experience in dealing with aggressive and competitive players, while being fair and committed to their decisions, is invaluable. As coaches we aren’t looking to produce the next A-League referee, but we certainly wouldn’t be disappointed if that’s their chosen career path.
Young kids who see their path in football as referees should be commended! Give them a pat on the back and support them just as you would a player who wants to be the next Ronaldo. Good referees also started out as kids!
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