You see them at all games!!!
They are the three individuals carrying either a whistle or a flag.
Their uniforms up until recently were black but now referee fashions include red, gold, Blue.
They are the referees or more correctly the referee and the assistant referees. Referees are an integral part of the game of soccer. Their primary functions are to ensure that the laws of the game are followed and that the safety of the player is ensured. The duties of the referee are specific and carefully outlined. The referee has the authority to:
v Enforce the laws of the game
v Apply the advantage clause
v Keep a careful record of the game
v Terminate a game if deemed necessary
v Caution players guilty of misconduct or ungentlemanly behavior
v Stop the game for serious injury
v Allow no other person other than players and assistant referees to enter the field of play
v Send a player off the field
v Signal for the game to start after a stoppage of play
v Decide whether all other conditions are appropriate for play including the ball, field of play and player’s equipment.
Becoming a Referee
Referees are one of the key components to the game. They help ensure a fair and safe environment for the players, coaches, and spectators. The BYSL & Benicia Arsenal FC Referee’s has monthly meetings, mentoring, and support for the development of all of the BYSL Referees. BYSL is widely recognized for its quality and consistency. JOIN US! BYSL web site: http://www.beniciasoccer.org
Referees are proud of their contribution to soccer and take their appointments seriously. Their basic requirements are: an understanding of the spirit and the letter of the laws; superior physical condition; cooperation with fellow officials; personal flexibility that allows for a totally unemotional approach to all decisions despite experiencing the myriad of participant emotions during a typical game; and to make the game of soccer enjoyable to play and watch.
So what does it take to become a referee? The first step is to sign up for an entry level Grade 8 clinic. Several are held during the year at the BYSL office. The Grade 8 clinic consists of six (6) 3-hour sessions, for a total of eighteen (18) hours of instruction. Attendance at all sessions is required for successful completion of the course. Where you learn about the Laws of the Game and their interpretation and enforcement as well as proper referee decorum and demeanor. From there, you can move up the grade level to state, national and FIFA levels.
The BYSL & Referee Coordinator is in need a good number of new referees this year. If you are 13 years or older, you are eligible as long as you are mature enough to comprehend the material and take a test. Referees are especially needed in the 20-35 age groups. Let us know if you are interested in being directly contacted about upcoming clinics (Grade 9, Grade 8, Bridging from Grade 9 to Grade 8, etc.). Please email BYSL Referee Coordinator Don Villella at referees@beniciasoccer.org.
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