In August 2016, MWSRA launched the New Referee Development Program, combining previously offered mentorship and training opportunities with new resources, development, and discussion groups to support new referees, regardless of age, as they begin officiating games at all levels. Remember, how you are perceived by coaches, players, spectators, and other referees impacts your credibility and your ability to manage your games. This program will provide you with informal and formal opportunities to improve referee fundamentals, discuss these challenging situations, ask questions, and learn about more tools to be able to manage your games more effectively and more easily.
“Life lessons can be found in the oddest places, like the well-manicured soccer fields that are my domain most weekends. It’s a shame the behavior of the parents, coaches, and players who populate these fields aren’t as well-manicured. More often than not, the opposite is true. They are conditioned to dislike me. But that’s precisely why I like this job so much. It’s the reason I’ve learned lessons that will help me in all facets of life. Some are obvious: Teamwork, leadership, nerve, certitude and daring. It taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, grit, and, most of all, standing firm when I’m all alone… Being a soccer referee is one of the most valuable job experiences I’ve ever had, even if it’s one of the hardest.” (Excerpt from “Thoughts of a Youth Referee“)
Are you a certified referee but not sure where to begin? Check out our “New to MWSRA?” starting guide.
Another great resource is from US Youth Soccer for “Advice for New Referees” – great for your first game or throughout your first year as a referee.
For questions, suggestions, or to request mentoring, contact Matthew Popkin, MWSRA’s Director of Referee Development, at mwsrarefdevelopment@gmail.com.
