Open Age Advice for returning to refereeing

[TobyTheRef]

Hi all,

I've re-registered for refereeing after a good five years away from the game, with kids and a job overseas, I'm pleased to be back though looking for some advice on things from the good folks around here.

I haven't reffed a match since the 2019 season, and since we've moved back to the UK, I'm in a new county.

I've done a refresher (online) course and some safeguarding bits, but appreciate that I've missed quite a bit especially re. sin bins and the like.

Any advice on how to prep for the season ahead?

Cheers!

 

[Archer]

Go and watch someone

 

[one]

Better yet, start as an AR for a couple of games.

 

[ChasObserverRefDeveloper]

Watch a couple of games at the level you will referee, or the level above, to acclimatise to the use of Sin Bins, the 8-seconds law for goalkeepers, and the general "feel" of games in your area.
If you can start with a couple of Assistant Referee appointments that would be useful.
Get into touch with local referees as quickly as possible to get access to local knowledge about clubs, grounds, etc.
Read through some of the useful advice in this forum.
Most importantly - enjoy!

 

[RefRyanAus]

Get as fit as you can and increase your match load progressively. Returning refs can be particularly susceptible to injury and diving in too deep too early can easily shatter the enthusiastic ambition for the shiny new season that lies ahead.