Have you ever said something to the referee or the volunteers running the line?  

Why?  

How would you feel if I rephrased what you said to that ref to your son or daughter about their ability to play football?  

I am guessing you would think it was unacceptable. 

Over my past 4 years of coaching, I have seen parents, managers and players abuse referees. I do not know why!     

Youth football cannot be played without the referee and those parents who kindly volunteer to run the line.  

We are not watching professional football. 

These referees tend to be newly qualified and are learning the game just as your sons and daughters are learning how to play football. 

They equally deserve our respect and support to develop in the game.  
 
I have coached teams that were both successful and unsuccessful. The team always played their best and tried to win every game. Decisions would sometimes go our way and sometimes against us. 

Did I get frustrated, when they didn’t, of course I did!   Did I cross the line and shout abuse at the referee no!   

Instead, I would ask the ref at half or full-time if I was unsure of a decision. I may learn a new law – there are a lot of them.  

A different angle on the pitch or how they interpret the rules will lead to a difference in opinion. If so, you have to respect their decision.  

Also, a ref may say: “Sorry, I got that one wrong.” In a split second, they decide, some mistakes will happen, as they are only human. 

The F.A. has introduced new rules for the 2023/24 season.  Abusive behaviour by parents, players and coaches could lead to teams being deducted points.   

It shouldn’t have come to this, but it is needed from what I have seen.   

I hope it leads to all involved in coaching, playing and supporting kids’ football showing a lot more respect to officials. 

If you think you can do better, there is a shortage of referees, so go and complete the course and get involved or volunteer to run the line for the team you watch. You can sign up to be a referee at https://www.derbyshirefa.com/referees/development-and-courses/the-fa-referees-course  

Everyone is always welcome at New Tupton Ivanhoe F.C. but we won’t tolerate abusive or threatening language or behaviour towards the officials, players and volunteers.   
 
I hope all the officials and players have a great season.