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Reasons to Consider a Career as a Soccer Referee

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Reasons to Consider a Career as a Soccer Referee

Summary: Running a soccer game as a referee can be a lot of fun, but it takes hard work. This article explains why it’s worth it in the end.

Refereeing a soccer game can be an enjoyable experience and a great way to stay involved in the beautiful game of soccer. A soccer referee has the responsibility of running a soccer game and making sure it is safe, fun, and runs smoothly.

Anybody can become a soccer referee so long as they are able to move down the field and love the sport. A lot of referees enjoy the job because they can get a workout in while running the game, dodging soccer balls as they move.

In fact, a growing shortage of referees on the youth circuits is making the job one in high demand. Many people become referees when they are young, choosing to become an arbitrator as opposed to a player. Some people do both!

Here are some tips for the aspiring ref:

  1. Trust yourself. You have to have confidence in what you’re doing to be a ref. Taking a certification course. Study up on the rules of the game. Practice yelling, using a firm voice, and asserting a dominant stance. You don’t want to be questioned on the field.
  2. Be realistic about your income expectations. There’s some money to be made in becoming a referee, but you will likely be an independent contractor, having to pay taxes on the income down the line. You can make more money with more experience.
  3. Enjoy the idea of giving back to the game. Many soccer players “retire” from playing and become referees. They know the game inside and out, and they like being part of the action. Rather than play, they enforce the rules. The level of respected required is high.
  4. Be prepared to exit your comfort zone. There’s no way around this. If you’re a shy person, you can’t be so timid on the field. You will have to assert yourself, making hard calls that people don’t want to hear. If they don’t listen, give them the red card. Ejection!

All in all, being a soccer referee can be a rewarding job. Many young people do it to make some money, but it can be a profession if you’re really committed.

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