Upcoming Class in January!

Have you ever considered becoming a referee?  If you have, now is your chance; if you haven't, maybe you should think again.  Over the years, NASC has had a large number of refs, but we are now finding ourselves a little short.

For any player or parent who has disagreed with a referee's call or complained about the quality of officiating, here is your chance to do something about it.  What better way to ensure quality officiating than to learn the laws, get certified, and put your "mark of quality" on every game that you call?

Referees are an integral part of the game at all levels, but particularly in youth soccer.  As a ref, you enforce the laws of the game (how many sports have laws instead of rules?) and ensure the safety of the players.  While not universally true, refs can also serve as role models to everyone associated with the game:  players, coaches, and parents.  It is quite a responsibility, but it can also be great fun.

For adults, this is a great way to get involved in a sport that your kids love.  Perhaps it is an opportunity to re-involve yourself with a game that you used to play but have given up.  Or, maybe this is your chance to get back into reffing.  It is a wonderful source of exercise and a chance to
work with a lot of kids, teaching them the "right and wrong" of the game and instilling sportsmanship.  More importantly, it is a way for you to ensure the quality of the soccer program here in North Allegheny and keep the game alive, well, and safe for our youth.

For younger referees, it is a way to expand your exposure to the game.  If you play, it can help you to play better.  If you just love the game, it is a super opportunity to spend some quality time involved in the sport. Starting young can lead to many opportunities as you gain experience and expertise as a referee.  All those FIFA refs had to start somewhere...why not as a referee for NASC?  Plus, it is a great way to pick up some spending money doing something that is truly fun.

Special note to Microsoccer Parents:  This is the time to get involved as referees to ensure that high-quality, motivated adult referees will remain a part of NASC for years to come.  Refereeing is something that anyone with the desire to do can do, even if you are not currently familiar with the game.  It just takes learning the laws, making a commitment to doing your best, and some game experience.  I'd be willing to bet that most of the adult refs in the Club got involved because they had children playing the game, not because they had extensive prior experience with the game.

Special note to U-13 and U-14 Parents:  The minimum age to referee in USSF is 12.  If you are currently playing U-13 or U-14 soccer, you are eligible to begin refereeing as soon as you certify.  Now is the time to start!

Upcoming Class: Here are the details of our next class:

•  Class will be at Carson Middle School.

•  Class meets every Tuesday and Thursday, starting on January 8; runs for 3 weeks.

•  Meting time is from 6:00 to 9:30 PM

•  Cost is $50 which is reimbursed by the Club after you satisfactorily complete the class and  referee five games.

You must attend all 20 hours of instruction and pass a written test to certify.  If you are interested in becoming certified, or if you have any questions about becoming a referee, call Tom McChesney (NASC Referee Director) at 724-933-0326; or send an e-mail to "[email protected]".  As soon as you complete your beginner class, you'll be able to officiate in the Spring season.