Advice to Coaches on Younger Referees
Be Kind to our Refs
Please be kind to our young referees tomorrow and every week. Support them. Do not question their calls. Talk to them like adults. Show them respect. Think of your own son or daughter out there and how you would like them to be treated.
Our young refs are well trained, but like all officials, they can make mistakes. Be generous. If you can teach them, fine. Otherwise, be quiet.
Remember, never question a judgment call (i.e., "Was it a hand ball or not?"). If you have a question about interpretation that depends on the laws, be nice in talking and seeking clarification from the referee about the law. You both might learn something if the inquiry is handled in a proper, respectful manner.
ASA Rules
We have the FIFA Laws of the Game that govern soccer around the world.
We also have the ASA Rules that affect the U12s and below. (See Rules & Regulations. Use it as your guide for coaches and referees.)
If in doubt:
1. Make sure the two coaches and referee agree before the game on the rule in question (i.e., placement of ball for goal kicks, offside, etc.).
2. Remember: More important than the rules are the game and the kids. Most of what you want to argue about will be inconsequential to the game. Let it flow.
