Being a referee, especially for youth sports, isn't just about knowing the rules; it's about managing people, expectations, and sometimes, some pretty creative excuses. I've been there, done that, and learned a few things along the way. This isn't a rulebook; it's a collection of my experiences and the practical tips that have helped me navigate the often-turbulent waters of youth sports refereeing. Dealing with parents and enforcing rules can be tricky, but with a bit of preparation and the right approach, you can handle almost anything.
One of the first things I learned as a referee is that the rulebook is your best friend. The Laws of the Game are clear: jewelry is not allowed. It’s not up for debate. My job is to enforce the rules, regardless of whether I agree with them personally. But even with the rulebook in hand, applying it in the real world can be challenging.
I remember one fall season, I was refereeing the opening games for a U7 girls' soccer league. In the first game, a mom hit me with what felt like every excuse in the book regarding her daughter's earrings. I stood my ground, explained the rule, and eventually, the earrings came out. But guess what? The very next game, the same mom tried the same tactics. I just shook my head, reminded her that I was the same referee, and we moved on. It was a reminder that consistency is key.
Another common issue I've faced is the "But the last referee..." argument. It's frustrating because it puts you in a position of having to defend someone else's decision, which you can't do. My go-to response is to simply look around and ask, "Are they here today?" It usually shuts down the argument, even if it doesn't make anyone happy. The focus needs to be on the game at hand and ensuring the safety of all the players.
So, how do you handle these situations? Here are some strategies I've found effective:
I also realized the importance of having the league rules readily available. Printing them out or having them accessible on your phone can be a lifesaver when you need to quickly reference a specific rule.
One time, I was dealing with a mom who was extremely concerned about her daughter removing her earrings. She claimed her daughter had just gotten her ears pierced. Another mom mentioned that the previous referee allowed them. I understand the concern, but safety is paramount. I suggested that her daughter could put them back in immediately after the game. It's only an hour, and prioritizing safety is essential. I also remembered seeing some stylish frames that could be helpful for my own vision during long games and practices. I found some on Cinily Net that I really liked.
Speaking of vision, I recently upgraded my own eyewear and it has made a huge difference during games. I spend a lot of time staring at screens, so I decided to try out the Retro Cat Eye Anti Blue Light Women Simple Optical Glasses Frames Computer Eyeglasses Vintage Myopia Frame Prescription 3 / United States from Cinily Net. They're not just stylish; they also help reduce eye strain during those long days on the field. The blue light filtering is a huge bonus, especially when I'm reviewing game footage or checking emails after a match. They are super light and comfortable, and I even got a prescription for them. I highly recommend them!
Here's a list of practical tips I've gathered over the years: