FAQ’s about being a referee
We are trying to schedule you for as many games as possible. When you are being scheduled for multiple games, we will try to make them consecutive so you do not spend your whole day waiting around between games.
Why can’t I pick the games I want to officiate?
Games are assigned based on the needs of Hebron Soccer. We do not want you to officiate in a game that is coached by your parent or being played by your sibling. We want you to be at least 2 years older than the players you are officiating. We want to put newer officials on games played by younger athletes. We want the more skilled officials on the competitive games.
Why can’t I trade games with my friends?
If you trade games with your friends, we have no way to manage who gets the games and we have no way to know who should be at a game. If your friend is a “no show” no one will know who is responsible.
Why do I have to get there so early?
You need to arrive early for a number of reasons. The coach has a lot to worry about. He/she should not have to worry about where you are. You need to arrive 20 minutes before game time. You need to make sure your crew is in place. You need to perform your equipment checks and make sure the field is safe for play. You may also tell fans to move back off the lines so the assistant referees have sufficient room to run.
It is cold, can’t I just wear my favorite sweats?
It is important for you to wear your “uniform” because it shows the players and the fans that you are an official. You may wear black sweat pants and a dark sweatshirt under your referee shirt.
Why do I have to be the center?
You have to be the center so you can learn all the positions. In most cases you have been playing soccer since you were in kindergarten and whether you believe it or not, you can do it. You are a more valuable official if you can work in both positions. It is easier to schedule you if you can do everything. If you make a mistake, it is ok. No one is perfect!
Why do I have to be an assistant referee?
Everyone needs to take turns working in all the positions. As an experienced official you can help teach the newer referees and help build their confidence as a center
How much do I get paid?
You will be paid $20 for a line and $30 for a center. You need to plan for a 2 hour commitment to each game. You are making $10- $10 per hour. Minimum wage is $8.35.
How many games will I get this season?
Hopefully you will get about a minimum of one game per week.
How do I do my job?
Hustle, look alive, follow the ball and the game. Blow your whistle loudly and clearly. Be assertive with your flag. Stay in contact with your crew. No texting, no talking on the phone or talking with the fans during the game. Do not address a player or a coach by name. You need to be impartial.
How long is the game?
Please play the full amount of time allotted for the game. You should determine the length of the game prior to the start of the game. Please do not short change the athletes.
What if people yell at me?
Ignore them. You are in control of the game. In all likelihood you know the rules of the game better than they do. If they are out of control, you may tell them to leave.
What if someone cancels?
I have an alphabetical list of who wants to be called. I will call, if you are available, you get the game. I cannot leave a message because we will need to move on.
Why do I need to send a report?
You need to send in a report for several reasons. First, we need to know that you and all the officials were there. The report serves as a “time card”. Second, we need to know the score of the games. Finally, we need to know if there are any issues. Please tell us about the field conditions. Are there any equipment concerns? Did the coaches and the fans behave as they should?