Greetings veterans!!

I am a newbie ref. I just registered for the Michigan High
School Athletic Association after eight years as an AYSO ref. Is there any advice you can give on this step up in competition? What are the do's and don'ts I should be looking out for.

Thanks

Ward,
Welcome aboard.
1. Make sure you know the rules differences between USSF/FIFA and NFHS, make sure you know what the tie-breaker procedure is for your state, and brush up on soft vs. hard red cards.
2. Some states, like Indiana, don't want a USSF logo on your uniform.
3. Some states also use a two person crew as opposed to a Center R and two ARs. A few allow a 3 whistle crew where the Center R and both ARs have whistles. I've seen the three whistle and I NEVER want to see it again!
4. The big difference in the ages will be speed and strength. Some HS ball isn't as good or refined as club ball. Depends on where you are and the level of play.
5.Make sure you have good comfortable shoes. 80 minutes can be a long time when your feet are hurting.
6. Biofreeze muscle rub can be one of your best friends! Enjoy the season. Post from time to time and let us know how it goes.
RR

Ward,
Unlike the basketball forum where there are a big number of "jabberboxes" who talk all of the time, there's not a whole lot of activity in the soccer section of this forum.

There is nothing wrong with three-whistle crews when the three officials use proper field coverage. The only people who are against it are really against change for the good of the game.

MTD, Sr.

refnrev,

Thanks alot.

I'll be sure to spend the summer studying up on the rules as well as getting more time conditioning. I know what you mean about shoes! And in spite of stretching, I'm sure the Biofreeze will come in handy.

One friend did tell me about the mom's and dad's (who think they are rules experts and are not afraid to let you know that they know) but I'm pretty thick skinned anyway so that should be a minor concern.

Also I expect that as I start, I'll be paired with a veteran to mentor me through.

I will post and let you know how it's going. Thanks for this site.

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You haven't seen the crews use it that I have seen. It has been pathetic!

gs
 

Re: gs
 

I hope you can speak English. But your post and website really does not have anything to do with officiating soccer.

MTD, Sr.

Mark is correct, although with some, it's just a need to be the "center" of attention. Pathetic refs are pathetic refs, regardless of system.