| Hi ,
This is going to all parents, coaches and referees on the contact list.
No,
we referees are not perfect and believe me when I tell you that none of
us take to the fields to do anything other than our best. As of last
night I have taken to the fields for 1,898 games. I have yet to have
the perfect game and I learn something from every game.
Last
weekend we had a coach run on the field during the game yelling at a
young referee, on another field we had parents verbally challenging
(with Law book in hand no less) another young referee during half time.
These are NOT
acceptable behaviors. Since day one I have told you I will address with
any referee, any and all complaints, comments or questions that come
across my desk. We have really had very few in writing but I sure
"hear" about a lot of things. I am happy to explain and discuss any
Laws Of The Game.
One weekend we are told that not enough fouls
are being called so we tighten it up and the next weekend get told too
many things are getting called. Generally 50% of the people at any game
will not be happy with a referee's call.
This coming weekend
is Mid-Season Tournament, a very fun, exciting and often emotional
weekend where literally anything can happen. Before we get there I just
want you to consider your behavior and your impact on the future of our
young referees.
Please consider the environment you are in.
Please consider the impact you adults have on a 12, 13 or 14 year old
young referee. Why would they want to come back and learn and improve
if they continually get "beat up". You have a recourse and that
recourse is me, not a direct confrontation with the referee.
Also,
so you are aware, we teach our young referees NOT to speak about or try
to explain their decisions and for a very good reason. Imagine if you
will a well spoken adult challenging a young referee to essentially a
word contest. Would you want your child in that position? I am happy to
meet with, speak to or email anyone who has questions about our
officials.
Please keep a smile on your face and keep this thought in your mind:
Thanks for listening, thanks for letting me know when you do have issues to address and please let me know if you have any questions, problems or need explanations of the Laws Of The Game.
Tom Litchfield
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