My son recently began working as a referee for younger soccer teams. He was super excited to start earning his own money. However, after a few games he learned some valuable things. Namely, that it’s “better” to ref the girls games as the parents aren’t so intense.
He is reffing 6 & 7 year olds.
In chatting with some other parents, many of these 12 and 13 year old referees are nervous of making the wrong call – because parents will call them out. I realize that taking criticism is a part of growing up and a part of every job, but these kids are just that – kids. Even if parents think they are just gently asking questions, they’ve got our poor refs shaking in their cleats!
It might just take some getting used to but the kids I’ve talked to have all come across a nasty parent or group of parents. Hockey seems to be worse as there is something about the separation that makes them think that they can yell at the ref and the other kids and they’re somehow removed from the situation.
As for us, we are just going to keep telling him to make sure he knows his rules, is paying attention and doesn’t stay up too late the night before an early game. Hopefully he will gain the confidence he needs to move along and be successful in his first job! But just in case, we’ll be on the sidelines … just in case!
-Jen
#ThatSurreyMom
@jenxrobbins