Ref Base – Mentor Evaluations

Generally a good job keeping up with play and going deep towards the penalty area during attacks by Alameda. This was not a competitive match, and it ultimately terminated in favor of Alameda when they reached maximum goal differential. Accordingly, there were few attacks by Rapids. However, during Rapid’s attacks you tended to stay back near the center circle. Be sure to work both sides of the field regardless of goal differential. Otherwise, you risk losing control if a hard foul or potential penalty situation occurs and you are too far away to credibly call it – as the losing team would feel jilted that they lost their only chance at a goal.

Good foul selection led to calls being accepted by the players and coaches. This included a penalty kick correctly awarded to Alameda in the 4th minute. During the taking of that penalty kick you positioned yourself on the AR’s side. This was likely an inadvertent mistake as we discussed this after the match, and you clearly understood where the referee’s position should be during a penalty kick. Your whistle work was also good throughout the match with tone and volume helping to communicate your call.

Good job using your ARs and being aware of what they are doing. Examples included quickly recognizing offside flags: 18’-AR2, 19’-AR1, 25’-AR2. You led a good discussion with your ARs at halftime regarding proper offside signaling mechanics.

Signals for throw-ins and goal kicks were clean and proper. Work on your corner kick signal. The arm should be 45 degrees up and 45 degrees over pointing towards the corner where you want the kick taken. Use the arm on the same side you want the kick taken so as not to have your arm cross your body. Proper corner kick signals are particularly important as they can easily confuse your AR if not done correctly. Make a habit of looking for substitutes at every stoppage. This will reduce or eliminate coaches getting into the habit of yelling at you, even if just for a substitute. Remember that a quick whistle is required to restart play after calling for substitutes.

The referee presented a professional appearance. Do remember that pre-game duties are important for having a good match. You arrived on the pitch at 12 minutes before the scheduled kickoff. This is considered late as you should strive to arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled kickoff, and no later than 20 minutes before scheduled kickoff if you’re coming from another game. There was a roster issue that required direct intervention by league personnel. The ARs had arrived early, begun check-ins, identified this issue, and already notified league personnel before your arrival. It is also important to arrive at the pitch with the equipment you need. You did not have whistle for this match, and one was loaned to you by AR1. These efforts by the ARs allowed your game to start smoothly and on time. Please make a habit of arriving on time and with the necessary equipment.

Sebastian – You did a good job with this match, and it was clearly within your skill level to manage. This was apparent in your relaxed demeanor throughout the game. There were also numerous incidences of players just falling down throughout the game – good job on your “no calls” in these moments. Thank you for being a referee.

Sebastian is good to continue to center games at this level. Please note the comments above regarding late arrival and lack of a whistle. I hope these were unfortunate one-time occurrences!