10 Important Reasons to Become a Referee
Refereeing can be an incredibly rewarding hobby and even a career. To become a referee, all referees start with their FA Referees Course and have the opportunity to progress all the way through the game. There are many good reasons to become a referee for junior grassroots football. Here’s ten of them….
Love for the game
Your desire for the game and to be a key part of it should always start here. You have to really love the game and appreciate what it takes for an athlete to be good at it. Every sport requires a unique set of skills and talents to excel. For one sport it may be size and strength; for another speed and quickness; still another may reward unique coordination and technique. Whatever the case, your love for the game must always come first.
Respect for the players
The game is for the players. They gain the most from a game which is officiated fairly and within the rules. When every player has an equal chance to compete and be rewarded for their efforts, the referee has done their job well. We owe it to the players to do our best, every game and respect not just for the players, but also or coaches, parents and other spectators.
Opportunity to give back to your Community
In most every sport, there are many opportunities for a referee to donate his or her services. Whether for a local fundraiser, youth sports group or community event, you don’t have to look too far for places to support a worthy cause through officiating. It’s one of the most honorable things a referee can do and it is always greatly appreciated. Not to mention the sense of personal satisfaction you can get from referring a well-contested, fair and enjoyable match,
Chance to stay involved
Most referees played their sport at some time. Some probably still do, but perhaps not as competitively. Being a referee keeps you involved. It puts you right back into the action and gives you a part in the game that you’ll never get as a spectator. It’s not the same thrill as playing, but some would say it is probably the next best thing.
Keep fit and healthy
Some grassroots games may require the referee run at essentially the same pace as the players, constantly moving to create the best angle to see a play develop. And sometimes the pace can be rigorous. To be a top notch referee means getting into condition and staying that way throughout the season. It’s the price you pay, but in the long run it is the only way to do the job right. What better way to stay in shape and get a great view of the game?
Mental conditioning
Refereeing help keeps the mind sharp. Acute mental focus is a must at all times. If you lapse in concentration for a second, this could result in you missing a key incident in the game. The ability to block out distractions and concentrate on the athletes, exercises the mind. Oftentimes the mental demands of officiating can be much tougher than the physical demands.
Challenge Yourself
Refereeing is a challenge. From passing the exam…to advancing to higher levels…to getting the best assignments…to doing a good job under pressure in a big game. These are all challenges for every referee. And when these goals are met, it creates a great deal of satisfaction and pride.
Friendship
There is a kinship between referees that is hard to find elsewhere. During any grassroots football match, the players are supported by coaches and fans. Referees have only each other. This reliance, the working together as a team, creates a unique bond that goes well beyond the game itself. When you become a referee, you’ll know exactly what this means.
Earn Some Money
When you become a grassroots referee, you have the opportunity to earn money, whilst gaining important employability skills which will look great on your CV. Earning money should never be the driving factor in your decision to become a referee, but it definitely will help you along your way. When you consider all of the benefits listed above, becoming a referee is as rewarding a vocation as you may find.
<< Check out this post on how to become a junior grassroots referee >>
