Referees are among the most important part of any sport. They control the game, and hold the emotions of every fan in their palms, are able to make them cheer at certain times, and hold their heads in sorrow on other occasions. They can be praised one day, and booed and jeered on another. They are trusted with making the best decisions in the most intense moments. Because of this, being a ref is considered a huge honor, and a big responsibility, as well.
Today I was attending my brother’s soccer game. We were getting settled on the sideline when people realized that the referee was absent. I was approached by the person in charge if I wanted to ref. I thought she was joking and simply laughed it out and said “Ok, if I am paid”. A few moments later, I was handed a referee’s whistle. It was only at that moment I realized that she was not joking, and I was going to be a referee.
It was not difficult to actually make the calls, as I knew the professional rules, and just applied them as the game progressed. I could not comprehend yet and kept thinking “Is this really happening?”, “Am I allowed to do this?”, and “This is much more entertaining than just watching the game!”. It was a wonderful experience, and I hope to be an official referee soon for the lower leagues of Quincy Youth Soccer.
So, what do you think ?