New Ref here, 50+
Just completed 6 games so far. Assessed today, that was useful, and learned a few things to concentrate on improving. I started reffing to learn the laws, to help my sons who play decent youth football, plus I hope they will spend a season being a ref for 'life lessons'. I also thought, it might on the whole be fairly enjoyable to get back out on the pitch. There's a but coming ......
I'm reffing mens open age in Sussex. And to be honest 3 of my 6 games I've found quite unpleasant. Today, on match 6, someone had to be held back while aggressively approaching me, twice - he felt I gave a wrong decision.... he may have been right. In the moment, I felt too exposed, and to be honest approached the bench to deal with him - rather than giving a card - because I genuinely felt the situation was on the edge, and didn't want to escalate it.
I've got two children, and a full on schedule at the moment.... so I'm sitting here thinking why am I taking this risk, and where is the banter, and enjoyment. The question isn't can I handle it.... but more why bother? Anyhow. That's my experience, I'm probably going to take some games off, and think if it's worth it.... The shame is the players that make the games unpleasant are in the minority..
Just completed 6 games so far. Assessed today, that was useful, and learned a few things to concentrate on improving. I started reffing to learn the laws, to help my sons who play decent youth football, plus I hope they will spend a season being a ref for 'life lessons'. I also thought, it might on the whole be fairly enjoyable to get back out on the pitch. There's a but coming ......
I'm reffing mens open age in Sussex. And to be honest 3 of my 6 games I've found quite unpleasant. Today, on match 6, someone had to be held back while aggressively approaching me, twice - he felt I gave a wrong decision.... he may have been right. In the moment, I felt too exposed, and to be honest approached the bench to deal with him - rather than giving a card - because I genuinely felt the situation was on the edge, and didn't want to escalate it.
I've got two children, and a full on schedule at the moment.... so I'm sitting here thinking why am I taking this risk, and where is the banter, and enjoyment. The question isn't can I handle it.... but more why bother? Anyhow. That's my experience, I'm probably going to take some games off, and think if it's worth it.... The shame is the players that make the games unpleasant are in the minority..