REFS NEED LOVE TOO
An honest perspective from the 3rd team on the pitch... the referees. Through humor, analysis and education, we are slowly changing how people view referees and officials in all sports. We care and have a love for the game as much as any player or coach. Sometimes even more. Youth soccer (proper football) is a multi-billion $ industry in the US. Tremendous money is spent on players, competitions, travel etc., but almost nothing spent on developing the next generation of referees. I hope that this Podcast inspires, educates and humanizes the next generation of referees for their own development and appreciation...
Elite International Rugby Player to Esteemed Professional Referee: An interview with Aimee Barrett-Theron
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Ever wondered what it's like to transition from the adrenaline rush of being an elite player to the disciplined world of professional refereeing? Join me as I talk to the trailblazing Amy Barrett - Theron, South Africa's pioneering international rugby referee. Together, we explore her groundbreaking journey as the first South African woman to officiate in esteemed competitions like Super Rugby and the Olympics. Our conversation celebrates the cultural heartbeat of rugby in South Africa, ignited by the iconic 1995 World Cup, and the sport's unique ability to bring together players of all shapes...
Business and Tax Considerations for Sports Officials with Special Guest Robin Ruegg
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IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This podcast is not intended or should be taken as tax advice. Consult with a tax professional to help you with your own specific tax situation.Â
Robin Ruegg, a USA Brevet rating gymnastics judge with over 40 years of experience, joins us to unravel the fascinating world of gymnastics officiating. Robin shares her journey from a gymnast at the University of Minnesota to a respected judge, offering insights into the crucial yet frequently overlooked financial responsibilities that come with being a sports official.
We tackle the nitty-gritty of t...
Guest Appearance on the High Kicks Podcast: Getting to the Heart of Officiating
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I had the pleasure of being a guest on the High Kicks Podcast. The discussion was fun and informative. I had a blast talking about what I love about being a ref and the challenges of being an official in the beautiful game.Â
The episode ventures into the world of professional refereeing, where the pressure is immense and errors are an inevitable part of the job. We offered a compelling look at the human side of officiating, recognizing the split-second decisions referees must make and the scrutiny they face, even with t...
Dutch Referee Development Unveiled: Jan Ter Hamsel on Referee Growth, Development, and Innovation Approaches to Mentorship
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Jan Ter Hamsel, the creator behind the influential Dutch Referee Blog (dutchreferee.com & @dutchreferee on Instagram), offers a unique look into the life and development of soccer referees around the globe. Join us as Jan shares the inspiration behind his blog, which has grown into an educational hub for referees seeking both personal and professional growth. He contrasts the robust training and development pathways available in the Netherlands with the limited opportunities faced by grassroots referees in the United States, emphasizing the role of continuous education and dedication in improving officiating skills.
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Empowering the Next Generation of Adult Soccer Officials and Keeping them Warm in Cold Weather
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Are you ready to conquer the challenges of refereeing in cold weather conditions? Discover why I, David Gerson, prefer the chill to the sweltering heat and hear all about my top tips for staying warm on the pitch. Learn how you can maintain your professionalism while keeping comfortable, with insights into acceptable cold weather gear for referees and grassroots officials. We’ll explore everything from hats to long pants, ensuring you’re prepared for any icy encounter on the field.
Join me on a journey into the camaraderie and shared passion that...
Empowering the Next Generation of Adult Soccer Officials and Keeping them Warm in Cold Weather
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Ready to elevate your refereeing game to the next level? Discover how to stay warm while exuding professionalism on the pitch as I, David Gerson, share my top tips for cold-weather gear. From hats and gloves to logo-free attire, learn the nuances of what’s permissible in grassroots soccer and why cooler temperatures can be an official's best friend. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or fresh to the field, this episode promises the ultimate guide to balancing comfort with the demands of the game.
Step into the shoes of a refe...
Referee Resilience: Oregon Youth Soccer Addressing Abuse Head-on and Building Confidence as a Referee
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Ever found yourself in the middle of a soccer match, caught between the roar of the crowd and the whistle in your hand? Join me, David Gerson, as I recount the highs and lows of grassroots refereeing, sharing my first-hand experiences on the pitch. Starting with the sweet taste of success in a seamless match, we quickly progress to the chaos of an intense game where a tactical foul ignited a firestorm of protests. Through these stories, you'll discover the art of maintaining authority amidst a sea of dissent and learn essential strategies...
Strategic Officiating: Navigating Mass Confrontations and Being Thankful for the Beautiful Game
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What if managing a soccer match could be as strategic as a chess game, with every move calculated for maximum safety and control? Join me, David Gerson, as I unravel the art of officiating amidst the beauty and chaos of soccer, especially in the challenging aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This episode promises insights into the delicate balance of passion and responsibility, focusing on strategies to handle mass confrontations on the field. From forming a "triangle of control" with fellow referees to harnessing the leadership of team captains, learn how quick, decisive actions can...
Decades of Dedication: Bryan McDermott on Referee Assigning, Mentorship, and Georgia's Soccer Legacy
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What motivates someone to remain dedicated to soccer for over four decades? Discover the answer as we sit down with Bryan McDermott, a cornerstone of Georgia's soccer community. Bryan shares his journey as a coach, referee, mentor, assigner, and board member, offering a comprehensive look into the life of an individual who has given so much to the sport. From his early motivations to the complexities of being a referee assigner, Bryan's insights are invaluable for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the soccer community thriving.
Ever wondered about...
Reflections on Resilience: Balancing Personal and Professional Demands in Life
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Ever wondered how to navigate the complexities of life as a referee while juggling personal challenges? This week's episode of Refs Need Love 2 takes you on a heartfelt journey, starting with my reflections on my 81-year-old father's health struggles. This deeply personal narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing our loved ones.Â
Shifting gears, I share the unique challenges faced by referees, including weather disruptions and the physical demands of back-to-back games. An amusing story about "runner's nipple" adds a touch of humor, underscoring the passion and d...
