Authority
Referees have a great deal of authority during a soccer game, most notably to ensure all the game actions—such as fouls, offsides, goals and other movements—are officially noted during game play. Referees also have the power to eject players from the game if they deem necessary. This also includes injured players, who may be asked to leave the field of play if they are delaying the game. In rare circumstances, the referees have the power to “suspend the game” if there is any danger posed, such as fan interaction or inclement weather.
Responsibility
Soccer referees are the official time keepers of the match. Upon kickoff, the referee must keep track of the time played and any additional time that must be added to the end of the each half due to prolonged game stoppages. Referees are also required to ensure there are no ineligible players on the field.
Training
All referees complete both the FFA Laws of the Game (LOTG) Certificate as well as the Football West Level 4 Junior Referee Course sponsored by the PJSA. Contact us if you are interested in refereeing for PJSA.