REFS NEED LOVE TOO

By: David Gerson
  • Summary

  • 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 from the players, coaches and spectators they need to work alongside.

    © 2025 REFS NEED LOVE TOO
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Episodes
  • From World Cups to Grassroots: Kari Seitz's Vision for Refereeing at U.S. Soccer
    Feb 22 2025

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    Kari Seitz, one of the most distinguished figures in soccer officiating, unravels the secrets of her trailblazing career in our latest episode. As the Vice President of Referees for US Soccer and the former FIFA head of refereeing for women, Kari's insights are a treasure trove for anyone passionate about the beautiful game. With her unparalleled experience at four World Cups and three Olympic Games, she has a one-of-kind perspective as she shares her strategies for advancing refereeing in the U.S.

    The landscape of refereeing has undergone immense transformation, and Kari takes us through this evolution with a focus on empowering female referees. She candidly discusses the hurdles faced in earlier decades and how performance excellence helped overcome gender biases. Kari's dedication is evident in initiatives like the Women's Initiative, which aims to uplift female representation among referees. We also explore the impact of technology on the sport, showcasing the continual advancements shaping the field today.

    This episode doesn't shy away from addressing the pressing issue of referee abuse and how US Soccer's new policies are set to tackle these challenges head-on. Kari passionately advocates for education and better support systems for grassroots referees, emphasizing the critical need for community involvement in creating a safer soccer environment. By encouraging more individuals to take up referee courses, she paves the way for a more inclusive and understanding soccer culture. Join us for a conversation that not only highlights Kari's remarkable leadership but also envisions a future where refereeing is a respected and essential pillar of soccer worldwide.

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    49 mins
  • Mastering Soccer Officiating: Leland Grant on Elite Referee Qualities and the Innovative Footwear Design of Umpiro
    Feb 11 2025

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    44 mins
  • Understanding Referee Challenges: Empathy, Personal Struggles, and Youth Sports Dynamics
    Jan 30 2025

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    Michael Oliver's controversial red card decision during the Arsenal vs. Wolves match has ignited debates far beyond the pitch, demanding a closer look at the high-stakes world of refereeing. Join us as we unpack the intense scrutiny faced by officials in the English Premier League, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding for their challenging roles. We also dive into David Coote's candid revelations about his journey through personal struggles, painting a poignant picture of the human side of refereeing that often goes unseen.

    We offer insights and a fresh perspective on the emotional rollercoaster of officiating youth sports while parenting from the sidelines. With a background in rugby, we bring a unique lens to the conversation, highlighting the cultural contrasts in how referees are perceived and underscoring the need for respect and professionalism across all sports.

    Explore the intricacies of youth sports dynamics where young referees, coaches, and parents navigate complex situations on and off the field. We delve into specific incidents, emphasizing the pivotal role of constructive communication and patience in fostering a supportive environment. By teaching personal responsibility and encouraging positive parental involvement, we aim to enhance the sports experience for everyone involved, ensuring that both young athletes and referees thrive in their respective roles.

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    44 mins

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