The Better Referee
By Chris Buhler
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The Better RefereeApr 20, 2021
Season 2 Ep 17 Move On
Nobody is perfect! Not even referees...and to think that they should be is unrealistic. As a referee, though, one should always try to better themselves in an effort to reduce the mistakes. At the same time, when mistakes (real or perceived) are made, everyone...and I mean EVERYONE...needs to move on.
Season 2 Ep 16 Holding Ourselves to Account
We have a real issue when it comes to getting enough referees to cover games...and it is not just soccer that is facing this issue. In this episode, I discuss the four variables that are key to getting this issue solved!
Season 2 Ep 15 Mentoring
In this episode, we discuss what happens when respected referees pick and choose what to enforce on the field. We also dive into what a mentor is supposed to do for a lesser experienced referee (and what should NOT be done). The finale is just a little vindication for myself because of some news that I heard!
Let's dive into becoming Better Referees!
Season 2 Ep 14 An Referee's Arrogance Is Never Good
In today's episode, we catch up on the last couple of weeks. One of topics of the discussion involve how a referee should not encourage the spectators through inappropriate interaction. The other items we talk about encourage referees to know the Laws of the Game and proper positioning during play.
Season 2 Ep 13.8 Laws of the Game: Final Thoughts
We conclude our series, "Laws of the Game", with some points of emphasis and final thoughts on applying the Laws. The most important aspect is to know the Laws, apply them, and use experience (your own AND that of others) to gain wisdom. Doing so consistently will allow you to become "the Better Referee".
Season 2 Ep 13.7 Laws 15-17
Laws 15, 16, and 17 are probably the easiest of the Laws to understand and interpret. However, as always, there are a couple of caveats that every referee needs to know about. This episodes discuss the laws and some of these caveats.
Season 2 Ep 13.6 Laws 13-14
Laws 13 and 14, “Free Kicks” and “The Penalty Kick”, are discussed in this episode of our series on the Laws of the Game.
There are a few things about these Laws that can be confusing to referees, as well as some players and coaches. The important thing is that, as referees, we familiarize ourselves with the Laws beyond our formal training in order to become better referees.
Season 2 Ep 13.5 Law 12
In this session of the “Laws of the Game” series we focus on Law 12, Fouls and Misconduct.
As referees, our primary duty is to keep players safe, and Law 12 is at the heart of how we do so.
You are encouraged to read this Law yourself, ask questions, and really try to improve your recognition of fouls, how you handle various situations, and how to apply Law 12 to these fouls and situations.
Season 2 Ep 13.4 Laws 9-11
This episode, the 4th installment, of our series on the Laws of the Game covers Laws 9, 10, & 11.
Law 9 The Ball In and Out of Play
Law 10 Determining the Outcome of a Match
Law 11 Offside (Notice this is NOT plural!)
Season 2 Ep 13.3 Laws 6-8
Today, we discuss Laws 6, 7, and 8. Each are simple to understand, but very important to officiating a game (pay particularly close attention to the example I give concerning a dropped ball)!
Season 2 Ep 13.2 Law 5
In this installment of our "Laws of the Game" miniseries, we are discussing Law 5, "The Referee". We cover the powers and duties of the referee, which includes when and how to exert said authority, as well as talking about the primary goal of all referees, and how we achieve that goal.
Season 02 Ep 13.1 Laws 1-4
In this mini-series episode, we discuss Laws 1 through 4. We don't into exhaustive detail, but hit the basics that everyone should know.
Law 1 The Field of Play
Law 2 The Ball
Law 3 The Players
Law 4 The Players' Equipment
Season 2 Spring Announcement
Hello!
It has been a while, but it is time to get ready for the upcoming season!
Over the next week, I will dropping multiple episodes of this podcast discussing all 17 Laws of the Game, as well as discuss what I expect for the opening weekend of games.
Thanks for being here!
Season 2 Ep12 Fall 2021 Sign Off
In this episode, we look at some minor events that happened in a game from the past weekend. It could almost be used as a preview to the Laws of the Game series I will be hosting between the fall and spring seasons.
The second topic discussed is that of prepping for high school soccer in the spring. I just completed a course called "Implicit Bias". I discuss my thoughts on this. WARNING: I do get a bit personal in this section...but I am honest!
Season 2 Ep11 Getting Rid of the Element
There are certain elements that have no place in youth sports, or even professional sports, for that matter. Referee abuse is near the top of that list, right alongside player abuse. As coaches, parents, players, referees, assignors, administrators, and volunteers, it is imperative that we eliminate these elements. By doing so, it is so much easier to create an environment where everyone involved can learn and play the sport they love, and have FUN doing it!
Be the change!
Season 2 Ep10 Knowledge is Power
I have said before, and I say it again: "Know the Laws of the Game and the local rules of competition!"
This past weekend, we had an incident occur, then a friendly debate about what should have happened if the out come were different. I am proud to say that I was right (not being vain), and I can say it because I have actually read the book!
Season 2 Ep09 Be the Change
We have all heard the quote attributed to Mahatma Gandhi, "Be the change you want to see in the world." This applies to many aspects of life, including being an official. It is the reason I started this podcast: to help others be better referees, while holding themselves, other referees, players, coaches, and parents accountable for their behavior. Once the referee community start to do this as a whole, we will begin to see, I believe, a change in the culture that has been the direct cause of the referee shortage we are all facing.
Season 2 Ep08 Referee Abuse is NOT Okay!
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Referee abuse and threats, whether real or implied, MUST be met with consequences! This one of the major reasons that we have a massive referee shortage in every youth sport. My understanding is that is not just in the United States, but globally. Granted, the shortage is worse in some countries than others...but in NO WORLD is referee abuse or threats justifiable, no matter how benign the perpetrator claims such abuse or threats may be!
Season 2 Ep07 Assignors Beware
If you are an assignor, please make certain of a referee's availability before assigning...especially if the referee does not generally work at your club!
Season 2 Ep06 You MUST Enforce the Laws
As referees, our #1 priority is player safety! We enforce the Laws of the Game and local rules to make the match as safe as possible. Sometimes, that means pulling out the cards, even when we don't want to. Failure to do so can lead to injuries, and, at the very least, a disreputable match.
Season 2 Ep05 With Knowledge Comes Consistency
I am always preaching that referees MUST know the local rules of competition. Knowing these rules, alongside a good understanding of the IFAB Laws, can allow a referee to be confident in what calls he or she makes during a game, and certainly what happens after the whistle is blown.
Season 2 Ep04 Parenting, Shoes, and Tunnel Vision
3 topics for this episode:
- Sometimes, as a referee you have to find a new way to assert your authority...and sometimes that means going "old school".
- Be sure to check your uniform and equipment, and replace whatever you need to BEFORE complete failure!
- Tunnel vision is very easy to get into, but also pretty easy to get out of. Of course, there are also techniques you can use to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Season 2 Ep03 Local Rules Are Important
The local rules of competition do not just apply to the game between the first and last whistles. They also include pre-game checks and how to handle anomalies.
Season 2 Ep03 Handling Grudges and Finding a Mentor
- How does one handle "grudges" against coaches? Let's be honest, sometimes it can be hard to not go into a game with a clean slate...after all, we're human. Right? Nevertheless, we must be cognizant of remaining professional and fair!
- One of the best ways to become a better referee is to utilize a mentor. Find a referee and start asking questions. If you find the advice is sound, and with context, you may have found your mentor!
Season 2 Ep02 Pre-Season Prep
We have to do them before every season: equipment checks, uniform checks, learn about change to the Laws of the Game, learn changes to the local rules of competition, and HYDRATE!
In this episode, we discuss these items, plus I will share a story that gives an example of our responsibility as "better" referees.
Season 2 Ep01 Have a Backup Plan
Just like what happened with my technology this past week, you should always have a backup plan! You never know what's going to happen, and you should try to be prepared for anything.
On a side note, stay hydrated! This cannot be emphasized enough! Drink at least a half gallon of water a day, if not more. This has so many health benefits, especially for sweating and keeping the body cool. In fact, you may need to keep a towel close by!
Season 2 Pre-Launch Announcement
Hey, Better Referee Family!
I just wanted to let you know that this season's first episode will be available this Thursday morning, August 26th! We have some great things lined up, including information on the new Better Referee YouTube channel. The plan for that is to show clips and analyze them, and, hopefully, get some equipment reviews done. More on that later. Until then, keep striving to become the "Better Referee"!
Ep39 Upcoming Law Changes
In this seasonal year finale, we briefly discuss the upcoming changes to the Laws of the Game. I also go over some of the things that I will be working on in the off-season in order to make next season even better!
Thanks for following!
Ep38 The Heart of a Referee
In this unscripted episode, I share with you where I am at in my officiating journey, where I came from, and what the future may hold for me. Many thanks to all my listeners for allowing me to speak into your life as a soccer referee. I hope that one day we will all be considered "the better referee".
Ep37 Dissent and Its Consequences
Dissent has consequences...and when you've had enough, you have to deal with it!
Ep36 Officiating League Games vs Playoff Games
All games mean something, the question is whether you, as an official, will call a game differently based on the type of game it is...a regular season league game or a tournament/playoff match.
Some things to consider are:
- What is at stake?
- Do teams care more about one type of game over the other?
- How much does experience of the referee play a part?
- Should a playoff/tournament game be officiated differently than a regular season game?
Ep35 Whistle Control and Rule Interpretation
Part 1: Proper whistle control allows you to communicate without saying a word, and allows confusion to be kept at a minimum.
Part 2: Taking the time to talk with your crew members about how they look at certain situations will help keep everyone on the same page and will aid in continuity and consistency of calls during a game.
Ep34 Field Conditions and Continuity
Part 1
Safety is the #1 priority of a referee. With that in mind, we must remember that our authority extends to the playing field itself. It is our duty and responsibility to deem the playing surface safe before starting - or continuing - a game.
Part 2
As discussed in past episodes, communication between all crew members is key. Otherwise, you will not be on the same page and be able to effectively manage a game as a team.
Ep33 Understanding Age Divisions
Just because a game is not competitive, or because it is young kids, you cannot let your mind wander. In fact, in those situations, you must endeavor to keep yourself in the right frame of mind!
Ep32 Consistency in Calls and Eye Contact
Be watching! We are going to be transitioning from a private FB group to a fan page in the coming weeks!
Being consistent in your calls not only makes your life easier, but if all referees know and understand the Laws and rules of the game, then we can be consistent with each other, making all referees' lives a little easier...and that's even though we may never meet!
Also, eye contact can be one of the most powerful, yet most understated form of communication. Mastering this concept will certainly make your games go smoother.
Special Announcement
Due to technical issues, this week's normal episode has been delayed. Hopefully, we will be back on schedule next week.
Ep31 The Importance of Rest
Rest is an important part of being the best referee you can be. Physical and mental respites are essential in keeping you interested and properly able to officiate, regardless of the assigned position.
Ep30 Communication is Key
When you communicated effectively - regardless of who you are trying to communicate with - you will be successful!
Ep29 When Referees Have Differing Philosophies
What happens when your philosophy on what is or is not a foul conflicts with a member of your crew? Not being on the same page can lead to injuries and an unsafe environment for the players.
Ep28 Muscle Recovery and Communication
Well...I had no idea this did not publish last week! So, enjoy episodes 28 and 29 this week!
When you aren't the best of shape, you are likely to be sore after the first few days of officiating. Know your body and find the best way to recover from the soreness quickly. In this episode, I share a few techniques to speed the recovery process. In addition, we discuss how communication can affect a referee crew, the players/spectators, and, ultimately, the game.
Ep27 Hydration and Communication
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Hydration and communication are two essential elements of becoming a better referee. The first deals with keeping your body healthy, while the other allows your crew to be on the same page when it comes to officiating a match.
Ep26 Mentoring
We need the good, more experienced referees to take new referees under their wings and mentor them, coaching and teaching them the tools and skills necessary to become better referees.
Ep25 Tools of the Trade
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The focus of this episode is the equipment that we use as referees, both those things that are required as well some optional equipment. Of course, we do hit on a couple of other things, such as pre-season prep and referee positioning.
In the podcast, you will hear that I have posted links to the equipment that I use. below are the links to some of those items.
Casio Men's AE-1300WH-8AVCF Illuminator Digital Display Quartz Black Watch
Referee Headset 1PC V4 Football Wireless Headsets Wireless Football Headsets Headset Football Referee Communication (I bought this item somewhere other than Amazon, and it came with the same sturdier headset listed immediately below)
BAISDY 30Pcs Mini Size Lavalier Foam Lapel Mic Windscreen for Lavalier Microphone
Ep24 NFHS Differences
I am constantly telling my listeners to know the local rules of competition. The differences between US high soccer and USSF club soccer are minimal, but can absolutely say a lot about you as a referee if you do not what those differences are!
Ep23 Getting Ready and In Shape
If you have a fitness plan, now is the time to implement it! Keep preparing for the upcoming season. Also, we discuss the performance of a high level referee during a maybe-not-so-high-level competition.
Ep22 Pre-season Prep
It's time to get into the referee state of mind...and body!
Season 2 Announcement
The Spring season is almost upon us! We will be back on January 19th for some more information on how to become THE BETTER REFEREE!
Ep21 The Last Weekend
It's important to call the last game of the season just as though it was the first. Always work towards being consistent in every game!
Ep 20 Know the Laws, Teach the Laws
To be a better referee, you have to be able to explain the Laws of the Game to players, depending on their age level.
Ep19 Off-season Research
What will you do during the off-season? I make the suggestion that in addition to keeping in shape, you add research into different scenarios concerning the Laws.