Being a referee, especially for younger players, is more than just blowing a whistle. It’s about ensuring fair play, safety, and sometimes, navigating some tricky situations. I’ve learned that sticking to the rules, even when faced with pushback, is crucial for maintaining control and creating a positive environment. It's all about sportsmanship and upholding the Laws of the Game.
I remember one fall season, I was refereeing the opening games for a U7 girls' soccer league. In the first game, before it even started, a mom approached me with a series of excuses about her daughter's earrings. She tried everything – claiming they were newly pierced, that the previous referee allowed them, and that taking them out would be too painful. I stood my ground, explaining that jewelry wasn’t allowed for safety reasons. Eventually, the earrings came out.
The very next game, the same mom came back, looked me straight in the eye, and repeated all the same arguments! I just shook my head and reminded her that I was the referee on duty, and her daughter couldn't play with the earrings in. It was a bit frustrating, but it reinforced the importance of consistency.
Another common challenge is the "but the referee last week..." argument. I've found that a simple response works wonders. I usually look around and ask, "Are they here today?" It usually shuts down the conversation, even if it doesn't make the person happy. It's important to remember that I'm responsible for enforcing the rules at that moment, regardless of what happened previously. I always try to maintain a calm and professional demeanor, even when dealing with frustrated parents or coaches.
I'm a woman who has had pierced ears for over 20 years. Now that I ref, I understand the importance of the no jewelry rule. I once had a U9 mom complaining about her daughter having to remove her earrings. I explained that her daughter's ears wouldn’t close up in an hour of play and she could put them back in immediately after the game. Prioritizing safety is paramount.
Over time, I've developed a few strategies for dealing with the jewelry issue. Here's what I've found works best:
Sometimes, it's the small things that help me stay focused and confident on the field. One thing I've found helpful is having a good pair of eyeglasses. Clear vision allows me to see everything that's happening and make accurate calls. I recently came across these Square Clear Glasses Optical Eyeglasses Frame Vintage Glasses Women Men Unisex Anti Blue Light Myopia Prescription Eyeglasses 2 / United States from Cinily Net, and I'm thinking of getting them. The anti-blue light feature could really help reduce eye strain during those long games.
I have been using optical eyeglasses in the past. The clear frame would be a great look for any gender, and the vintage design is a bonus! I think that a great pair of glasses can help me concentrate on the game.
Beyond enforcing the rules, clear communication is key to being a successful referee. This means explaining your decisions clearly and concisely, even when those decisions are unpopular. I try to avoid getting into lengthy debates about the merits of the rules themselves. My job is to enforce them, not to rewrite them.