By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association
June 24, 2025-The Soccer Mom rolled down her car window as she and her daughter were leaving the soccer complex.
“Thank you, ref!” she said. “I know it’s a thankless job.”
“Not really,” I countered. “99% of the people are great!”
Maybe 99% is an exaggeration but at least 95% understand that youth soccer features kids playing a game and they, their coaches and the refs make mistakes, although never on purpose. Very few treat the game like the World Cup final.
I should know as I’ve refereed in six different decades, starting as a teen when Jimmy Carter was President. And the vast majority of people have treated me great and I heartily expect that will continue.
There are many great things that happen when you referee as you meet new people, learn leadership skills, learn to manage people, learn to remain calm at all times, you are your own boss and go directly to the customer, you expand yourself by leaving your comfort zone plus you get (or stay) fit, all while earning money on the side.
Becoming a soccer referee was one of the best decisions I ever made and that could be the same for you! The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is seeking new referees to be in the middle and/or on the line as assistant referees in youth soccer games throughout the state. The minimum age is 14 years old to become certified. You manage your availability so officiating works with all the rest that you do!
For more information, log on to https://enysreferee.org/how-to-become-a-referee/. If you have any questions, e-mail questions@enysreferee.org
With over 100,000 youth soccer players––both boys and girls––and more than 25,000 volunteers, the non-profit Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) stretches from Montauk Point, Long Island to the Canadian border. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage the healthy development of youth players, coaches, referees and administrators. All levels of soccer are offered––from intramural, travel team and premier players as well as Children With Special Needs. No child who wants to play soccer is turned away. ENYYSA is a proud member of the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log onto http://www.enysoccer.com/