The Indie Spirit of Football Soccer Refereeing: A Perspective from an Enthusiast

Why would anyone wish to be a football soccer referee considering what they are forced to endure? This question often resurfaces as those curious or intrigued by the role ponder the dedication and passion required. This article explores the mindset and motivations of a dedicated soccer referee, providing a personal insight into the world of football officiating.

Passion and Personal History

I embarked on the path of being a soccer referee because the game holds a special place in my heart. I played soccer until my early 30s and it was through this passion that I developed an appreciation for the role of a referee. Simply put, if you are someone driven, with a desire to learn, and willing to invest time in training, you may find the role of a soccer referee rewarding.

My journey as a referee did not come easily, and I must admit that I did not care about the criticism or negativity that often accompanies a match. What mattered to me was the players on the field and the integrity of the game. This perspective reflects a broader discussion on why individuals choose to work in often challenging environments in the pursuit of their passions.

A Personal Career and Growth

Speaking for myself, I truly enjoy the sport, find the challenges exhilarating, and have discovered that I can officiate at a higher capacity than what I played or coached. My experience playing as a child and young adult gave me a taste of soccer, but it was the lack of coaching opportunities that motivated me to develop as a coach and referee.

Admittedly, I was not a particularly skilled player, nor a standout coach. Though I coached a few players who went on to play for solid youth club teams, my abilities were not exceptional. However, when it came to refereeing, the landscape changed. Even in my late 40s, I find myself capable of officiating university-level athletes and former low-level pros playing in upper-tier men’s matches.

The excitement of being "in the middle" of such high-level play is genuine, and it has taught me how to manage negative comments from spectators and control the emotions of players and coaches. This draws parallels to the satisfaction adults feel from still playing soccer, despite not having a future in the sport.

The Rewards and Challenges

Refereeing presents unique rewards. For one, I get to keep fit, often running around 5-6 miles / 8-10 km in a full-length men's match. Unlike the players I officiate, I am actually paid for my efforts, providing a unique blend of fitness and financial contribution. While I may grumble about running a 10 km road race, the prospect of playing in a soccer match is an enjoyable experience for me.

Despite the challenges, the criticisms and complaints are mitigated by the positive feedback I receive before and after games. Comments from familiar players or coaches, such as “Ref, glad to see you’ve got our game today—we know you'll control things well,” serve as reminders that much of the criticism I face is simply emotions and frustration or a lack of understanding of the actual Laws of the Game.

A Deeper Understanding of Sports and Dedication

For those considering a career as a soccer referee, it's essential to recognize the emotional and physical toll it can take. However, for those with a genuine passion for the sport and a willingness to learn and grow, the role can be incredibly rewarding. Referees not only contribute to the integrity of the game but also face the satisfaction of seeing their efforts recognized.

The path of a soccer referee is not without its obstacles, but the joy of contributing to a positive environment on the field and the ability to run and enjoy the game outweigh the challenges. In the end, it is about finding fulfillment through the love and dedication to a sport that one truly cares about.