Excuses Not to be a Referee - Why I can't become a Referee :)
To save you the trouble of having to create an excuse of your own, we've listed the most common excuses for non-participation in this critical function in the AYSO program
- I Don’t Know Anything (Enough) About the Game
Most of us knew little, or less than you, about soccer when we became referees. Not to worry… for the investment of about six to eight hours we'll train you with more knowledge of the Laws of the Game than most Americans possess.
- I Don’t Have Time
Becoming a referee is perfect for those AYSO parents who have crowded schedules. Referees schedule themselves for the games they can do, possibly just before or after the game your child is playing. You may do as many or as few games as you choose. And, the very busy actor, Will Ferrell, used to referee his kids’ AYSO games!
- I’m Not the Right Kind of Person
Sure you are. You obviously care about your child. This is a youth sports program run by all volunteers. Who would be better than a concerned, involved parent like you?
- I’d Look Silly in That Uniform
Good heavens… you obviously haven’t seen the Referee Administrator.
- I’d Be Embarrassed
Everyone makes mistakes (even those of us who have been officiating for years). The important thing is to approach the job with enthusiasm and enjoyment, because that will be passed on to the players and coaches (and we can team you up with an experienced referee to help you through the initial learning process)
- I’m a Woman – I Never See Them Referee
Actually, we have many qualified women referees – and they are great! We could use many more. What other time in your life will you ever - with just one breath (or whistle) - be able to make 22 kids stop what they are doing, actually listen to you, and then do what they're told? Almost half of our players are girls and they love having women referees. They're comfortable with them and look up to them as role models. If you're a mom, you already are used to making quick decisions and multi-tasking. (If you're a mother of two or more children, you already know what it means to be a referee!) Don’t worry, we'll teach you, support you, and start you off refereeing younger children. We'll be there to mentor you until you feel comfortable and confident.
- I can’t afford the equipment
Don’t worry about expense, the Region will provide you with the necessary equipment to get you started.
- I don’t think I could keep up with the players. Some of them are pretty fast!
Don’t worry, most of us can’t keep up with them either. We give the older age division games, with the faster players, to our fitter and more experienced referees. We still have plenty of younger division games on smaller fields where you would be able to keep up. You know, refereeing is also a good way to get a little exercise and to have fun at the same time.
Now that we’ve addressed all your concerns we can’t wait to see you at referee training. And in return, we promise you:
- Exercise
- Enjoyment
- A sense of belonging
- A free uniform (and whistle!)
- A great time – Like for many folks before you, it may turn out to be the most fun you have had in a long time
- A small fan club of kids who think you’re great and are thrilled to see you