REFS NEED LOVE TOO
An honest perspective from the 3rd team on the pitch... the referees. Through humor, analysis and education, we are slowly changing how people view referees and officials in all sports. We care and have a love for the game as much as any player or coach. Sometimes even more. Youth soccer (proper football) is a multi-billion $ industry in the US. Tremendous money is spent on players, competitions, travel etc., but almost nothing spent on developing the next generation of referees. I hope that this Podcast inspires, educates and humanizes the next generation of referees for their own development and appreciation from the players, coaches and spectators they need to work alongside.
REFS NEED LOVE TOO
Emergency Pod on dealing with Dissent as a Referee
I was absolute rocked to my core listening to a young referee describe the offensive verbal abuse she received at a High School Soccer match this past week in Southern California. Unfortunately, these stories are far too common.
In the moment, it can hard to tell what is common outbursts of emotion, dissent or OFFINABUS language. Additionally, it can be hard to summon the courage to confront that abuse head on.
By discussing this and sharing this story, I hope we can all get stronger together.
I've added a few LOTG hot takes and a nice letter from the mail bag to end this POD on a Positive note.