Center Referee

Remember that the most important aspect of the referee’s job is to keep the play SAFE.  Be decisive about your calls and always begin the game instructing the players that you will not accept aggressive play.   Make sure to ‘BLOW’ your whistle hard when you make a call and communicate verbally and with your hand signals.  Know what ‘advantage’ is and how to apply advantage to the play.  Arrive at your games 20 minutes early to inspect the safety of the field, the safety of the players and balls, and arrive in complete uniform.  Looking like a referee will send a message to the coaches and players that you are in charge of the game.

Assistant Referee

It is important for the assistant referee to look just as professional as the center referee.  Wear your uniform correctly; referee shirt tucked in, black shorts, referee socks and have a watch to keep time.  As the assistant referee your single most important job is to stay with the second to last defender and call the offside law when appropriate.  Learn to use your flag as a clear and concise method of communication.  Do not hesitate or send conflicting signals to the center referee and players.