No, this isn't an ad for Nike balls. This isn't even a properly dressed referee (shades aren't part of the uniform). It is, however, an invitation to join the clan.
We refs are the boys and girls, women and men who keep the game fair, fun and safe. When we do our job well, you walk away hardly realizing that we were out there, but thankful that we kept the game flowing and enabled the players to show their skills.
How would you like a job that gives you plenty of fresh air? And one that allows you to be on the field in the middle of the action? And one that occasionally has everyone saying, "Good game, ref," even when you know the potential is there for half of them to be upset at your decisions? And get paid for it?
Sound interesting? Then go to these sites for more information about how to become a soccer referee. Or if that's not your thing, then go to them to learn more about the laws of the game.
- For one soccer association's view of the laws, see: Soccer Tips for Parents
- For a page with many referee links, see: Washington Soccer State Referee Committee