Below are some excerpts from Steve’s experiences – Read them, include them in your soccer life… and learn from them – and maybe you too will one day be a “National”. |
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| — Bill Engel - President - Rochester Referee Unit | |
“I found reffing interesting. I would make $200 just doing weekend games.”
The following summer, Steve moved back home to New Jersey and decided to continue refereeing throughout high school, when he wasn’t playing as a goalkeeper himself.
Steve graduated high school and began attending RIT in 2001, when he first registered with the Rochester Referee Unit.
“It wasn’t until my sophomore year in college that I got serious about refereeing.”
As he saw his playing career coming to an end, Steve wanted to continue being involved with the game.
“I decided that the best way to stay involved with the game at a high level would be to pursue refereeing as intensely as I could.”
In 2005, Steve upgraded to State Referee and made the decision that he would pursue his National badge. And after four years of hard work, Steve became a National Referee in 2009.
“If you're a referee in your teens or early 20's reading this, and if reaching the professional level is something you desire, I hope you go for it.
"My advice would be to seek out the help and guidance of experienced referees and the local Board. Work as many quality matches as you can, too. Don't over do it and take 16 games on a weekend at a tournament--it won't help you improve. Go out there and get experience, get a network of support, and get seen by the right people.”
Referee: Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Second Round, Cleveland City Stars v. Rochester Rhinos, June 16, 2009, Rochester, NY
Assistant Referee: Nike International Friendlies, United States U-17 Men's National Team vs. Brazil, December 7, 2008, Lancaster, CA
Forth Official: FIFA International Friendly, United States Women’s National Team v. Canada, July 19, 2009, Rochester, NY