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Im going to ref little league soccer {6-9} What are some tips for first time referees?
Im a junior and am excited to be a ref. any advice?
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Tom’s Answer
Hey Jazzy,
- First things first, get to know the rules inside out. Even if you're a player yourself, you'll be amazed at how often unexpected situations can pop up. So, take some time to review and quiz yourself.
- Stay in shape. Despite the players being only 6-9 years old, being in the right place at the right time is key to being a great referee.
- Show confidence. Even with the young ones, some parents might not fully get their roles. Stay respectful, but stand your ground.
- And most importantly, enjoy yourself!
- First things first, get to know the rules inside out. Even if you're a player yourself, you'll be amazed at how often unexpected situations can pop up. So, take some time to review and quiz yourself.
- Stay in shape. Despite the players being only 6-9 years old, being in the right place at the right time is key to being a great referee.
- Show confidence. Even with the young ones, some parents might not fully get their roles. Stay respectful, but stand your ground.
- And most importantly, enjoy yourself!
Mike Gosma
Air Force Veteran and Public Safety Operations Strategist
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Mike’s Answer
1. Especially at this age, your job is to foster love and appreciation for the Beautiful Game for both players and their parents!
2. Hold the line. We tend to fall into this trap of letting things go because they're kids, but they can learn just as much (if not more!) from a well and fairly called game than just doing whatever they want.
2b. Your job is also just as much about protecting players as enabling players. If you don't hold players and parents accountable for inappropriate actions, who will?
3. Reffing is a break-even job. At best, you don't adversely affect the game; you might even get a thank you. Remember that youth sports are (should be?) a out growing good humans first, good athletes second.
4. Good luck! HAVE FUN!
2. Hold the line. We tend to fall into this trap of letting things go because they're kids, but they can learn just as much (if not more!) from a well and fairly called game than just doing whatever they want.
2b. Your job is also just as much about protecting players as enabling players. If you don't hold players and parents accountable for inappropriate actions, who will?
3. Reffing is a break-even job. At best, you don't adversely affect the game; you might even get a thank you. Remember that youth sports are (should be?) a out growing good humans first, good athletes second.
4. Good luck! HAVE FUN!
Thanks for your encouragement!
Jazzy
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Jazzy,
That's awesome! Refereeing Little League soccer can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Know the Rules
- Make sure you're familiar with the rules specific to the age group you're refereeing. For kids aged 6-9, the rules might be simplified, so understanding those nuances is key.
2. Be Confident
- Confidence is crucial. Make clear and firm decisions, even if you’re unsure. The kids will look to you as the authority on the field.
3. Communication is Key
- Use clear and simple language when explaining your decisions. At this age, players are still learning the game, so your guidance is important.
4. Stay Calm and Patient
- Things can get chaotic, but staying calm will help you manage the game effectively. Patience is especially important when dealing with young players who might not fully understand the rules.
5. Positioning
- Keep moving to maintain a good view of the play. Position yourself so you can see the ball and the players, but don’t get in the way of the action.
6. Encourage Fair Play
- At this level, teaching the importance of fair play is just as important as enforcing the rules. Encourage good sportsmanship and positive behavior.
7. Be Ready for Anything
- Expect the unexpected! Kids this age can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything from accidental handballs to a player getting distracted by something off the field.
8. Have Fun
- Lastly, enjoy the experience! Refereeing is a great way to stay involved in soccer, and your enthusiasm can help make the game fun for everyone.
Best wishes!
That's awesome! Refereeing Little League soccer can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Know the Rules
- Make sure you're familiar with the rules specific to the age group you're refereeing. For kids aged 6-9, the rules might be simplified, so understanding those nuances is key.
2. Be Confident
- Confidence is crucial. Make clear and firm decisions, even if you’re unsure. The kids will look to you as the authority on the field.
3. Communication is Key
- Use clear and simple language when explaining your decisions. At this age, players are still learning the game, so your guidance is important.
4. Stay Calm and Patient
- Things can get chaotic, but staying calm will help you manage the game effectively. Patience is especially important when dealing with young players who might not fully understand the rules.
5. Positioning
- Keep moving to maintain a good view of the play. Position yourself so you can see the ball and the players, but don’t get in the way of the action.
6. Encourage Fair Play
- At this level, teaching the importance of fair play is just as important as enforcing the rules. Encourage good sportsmanship and positive behavior.
7. Be Ready for Anything
- Expect the unexpected! Kids this age can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything from accidental handballs to a player getting distracted by something off the field.
8. Have Fun
- Lastly, enjoy the experience! Refereeing is a great way to stay involved in soccer, and your enthusiasm can help make the game fun for everyone.
Best wishes!