How will I be assigned games?
The referee coordinator will contact you during the week preceding that weekends games. Referee coordinator may have specific games (times) that they need covered, or may ask for your availability for that day (weekend). Always be honest in committing to taking games.
What should I do if I can’t cover my games due to a last minute emergency?
Please contact the referee coordinator who assigned you the game(s) so that they can get the game(s) covered. Please DO NOT call another referee, or player you know to cover the game(s).
If the weather seems bad, how will I know if games are on?
If the weather (and field conditions) is poor, call the Boys and or Girls soccer commissioners, the club’s website for updated field conditions and information, or president of the NHP Wildcats.
What do I need to bring with me and what should I wear?
Remember, a good official is always prepared and is appropriately dressed. Be sure you have your whistle and a wristwatch(digital watch with running or elapsed time). Wear your club-issued referee shirt (black) along with black sweatpants or shorts, appropriate for the weather, along with comfortable sneakers (cleats are OK). If you are doing a few games, you may wish to bring water, etc. to keep yourself hydrated.
What time should I arrive for my assigned games?
You should arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of the scheduled U8 or U9 match.
What do I do when I get to the field?
Introduce yourself to each of the coaches by extending your hand and stating, “Hello coach, I am (your name) and I will be the referee for your game today.” Confirm with the coaches the correct division of the games, as some rules are different. Ask one of the coaches to supply the proper size game ball (#4).
What happens if one team doesn’t have enough players?
Remind the coaches that they can “lend” the other team a player or two if needed. A coach may also ask a child from a previous game in the same division to stay and play for him (her). It is very important to start each game on time so that games run smoothly throughout the day.
What happens if there is an injury during play?
Halt play immediately (always err on the side of caution, remember “PTP” Protect the Player) by blowing the whistle and instruct coach(es) of the injured player’s team to come onto the field. Let the coach; along with the appropriate parent/guardian determine the medical attention necessary.
What happens if a parent is being loud, abusive towards either the player or me?
Blow your whistle, halt play and motion the coach of that team onto the field. Privately, advise the coach, in a calm voice that you have been instructed by club officials to halt play when players or you are being placed in an uncomfortable position due to adult behavior. Advise the coach that if the behavior continues, you are instructed by club officials to halt the game, leave the field and immediately inform the coordinator of the day (which is exactly what you should do when a parent or coach speaks to you in an unacceptable manner).
What happens if I think I made a mistake during the game?
All officials, even the best ones, will on occasion, “see the call differently” from time to time than the players, coaches or spectators (remember you are watching all the players – not only the one with the ball – or their child!)
If during the course of play you are not sure of the rule, etc. then call both coaches onto the field for a private discussion. Sometimes, this will necessitate a restart with a ‘dropped ball’.
If you are still unsure after the game, speak with the coordinator at the conclusion of your games for that date. You may also wish to contact the club’s referee coordinator (phone call or e-mail) to ask for advice or clarification.
Remember, no one is perfect and you are learning to be a good official.
How do I get paid for games?
Before the start of the match collect sports billies from each team. Do not start the match until you receive billies. If necessary take time off game as to delay of receiving sports billies as per NHP Rules. Hand collected sports billies in to the referee commissioner for pay. Have fun!!!
