Being a sports official isn't always easy. I love the game, and I want to make sure everyone has a fair chance to play. But sometimes, dealing with parents and players can be a real challenge. It’s a learning process for everyone involved, and I’ve definitely learned a few things along the way. I want to share some of my experiences and tips to help you navigate these situations. It's all about staying calm, enforcing the rules consistently, and prioritizing safety.
One of the first things I learned as an official is that everyone thinks they know the rules better than you do! I remember one U7 game where, before the game even started, a mom approached me with a series of increasingly elaborate excuses about why her daughter couldn't remove her earrings. It was like a comedy routine, but I wasn't laughing. I stood my ground, politely but firmly explaining that jewelry is not allowed for safety reasons. Eventually, the earrings came out.
Then, the very next game, the same mom tried the same routine! This time, I just shook my head and reminded her that I was the official on duty, and the rule was clear. It's tempting to cave, but it’s important to be consistent.
I also recall another instance with a U9 game where a player had pierced ears. The mom was adamant that her daughter’s ears would close up if she removed the earrings for just an hour. I understood her concern, but I had to prioritize safety. I explained that her daughter could put them back in immediately after the game. It's never fun to be the "bad guy," but sometimes you have to be.
Another common argument I hear is, "But the referee last week let them wear it!" My usual response is to look around and ask, "Are they here today?" It usually shuts people up, though it doesn't always make them happy. The point is, I can only enforce the rules as I see them, in that moment. I can't be responsible for what someone else did or didn't do.
So, how do I stay calm and focused in these situations? Here are a few things that have helped me:
Beyond the mental game, I also realized the importance of having the right equipment. I found myself squinting a lot, especially during afternoon games. I decided to get new glasses and it's made a world of difference. I recently got the Krasivyy Square Rimless Glasses from Cinily Net, and I have to say, they’re fantastic. They are incredibly lightweight, which is important when I'm running around all day. Plus, the rimless design gives me a really clear field of vision. I can see everything that's happening on the field without any distractions.
The difference between good vision and great vision while officiating is subtle, but incredibly important. With these glasses, I feel like I can make better calls and stay more focused on the game. The ultralight design is a game changer.
Here are a few more tips I've picked up along the way: