More important than some people think
The soccer referee is in the middle of the soccer field to enforce the laws of the game. He does this with the help of his assistant referees, and sometimes a fourth official.
As we all know, being a soccer official is no easy task. No matter what call you make somebody thinks that you are wrong. So you have to be able to take it.
Responsibilities
Besides looking good in their soccer referee uniforms, they are responsible for making sure that:
* The soccer ball meets the requirements of the laws of the game.
* The players' equipment meets the requirements of the laws of the game.
* He keeps the official time of the match, supported by his assistants.
* He records the goals and any red cards, or yellow cards that are given out.
* He stops play for fouls, injuries, corner kicks, and goal kicks.
* He allows play to continue when a foul is committed if he decides that the team that was fouled has advantage.
* He ensures the safety of the soccer players.
Although these are the main responsibilities that he has, the soccer referee can discipline team officials on the bench if necessary. These team officials can be sent to the dressing room, or away from the field of play, if the offence is serious enough.
Injured Players
The referee will decide, based on the seriousness of the injury, when he will stop play. After speaking with the injured player he will decide if their is a need for medical help or not. He will then request the medical assistance if the player cannot leave the field on his own. He will send the player off the soccer field until the next stoppage of play, if he is fit to return. But the time to return is strictly up to the referee. If the player does not leave he can be cautioned (Yellow Card).
Positioning
The soccer referee must be in the best position to see the players and his assistants. He will run on a path that runs from one corner of the penalty area at one end of the field, to the corner of the penalty area at the other end of the field, on the opposite side of the field.
By being in good position the referee can:
* See the play well
* Talk to individual players if necessary.
* Hear anything said between opposing players.
He must also be fit. He will run just as much as the players will. When is the last time that you saw an over-weight soccer official? Not likely!
Referee Equipment
To be a soccer official you also need the proper equipment. It is not much, but you will need these tools to do your job properly:
* A good whistle so the players can hear when you stop the play.
* A referee's wallet that contains your red and yellow cards, and a place to record the events of the game.
* Flags for your assistant referees.
* A good watch, or sometimes two, to time the game properly.
* Good quality soccer footwear for whatever field you will be on. That could include soccer referee turf shoes or cleats.
Attention
The referee is not meant to be the center of attention. A good official will be able to let the game flow, stopping play only when necessary. He should be able to maintain control of the game, but let the players decide the outcome.
Being a soccer referee is challenging, but also very rewarding. You will receive respect from most, as they would never even try to do what you do.
Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Soccer Referee for more great soccer information for yourself or your team.
The Soccer Drill Sargeant
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1069533
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