3 reasons to ref (even if you play)
Making that decision to start refereeing is often a tough one to make, but there are many reasons to do so. Here are 3 of the best reasons to start refereeing full field competition games in the Shire.
In the Sutherland Shire, our region is fortunate to have one of the larger amateur football associations in Australia and our role at the SSFRA is to provide and develop referee's to support grassroots football in the Shire. With WMD Law backing us in 2023 and 2024 as our major partner, now is a fantastic time to get involved.
Lets explore why you should consider becoming a referee:
Manage your own Schedule!
Unlike playing, refereeing provides flexibility and doesn't require a weekly commitment. You can decide to referee all weekend or you can choose to be available for 2 hours on a Sunday morning. You can play Saturday and ref Sunday, or play Sunday morning and ref Sunday arvo. It is completely up to you and all managed online - We provide an easy to use portal for referees to log in and select the times when they are available and we will appoint you to games based on your availability. You can pick your available times, zones/grounds for appointments and select any related teams you don't want to clash with.
Earn some pocket money!
Refereeing is a great way to earn some extra pocket money! As a cadet (under 18 years of ages), it's a great way to earn an income for those still attending school in a way that won't interfere with your Monday - Friday education. In addition, you are earning an income whilst supporting the game you love. Referees in Sutherland get paid monthly, which is a great way to fund that next shopping trip!
For prospective adult referees, it may not be so much about the money however as we do receive a payment, the pocket money from our refereeing often funds a summer holiday, which is always a nice way to thank our partners for letting us out of the house on the weekend to referee!
Games are paid based on Football NSW rates and range from $35 for a 50 minute under 12 game to $70 for a 90 minute Mens or Womens match.
Understand the game!
With refereeing, you get insight into why certain decisions are made and when they are made. Your understanding of the laws will flow back into your playing time, and allow you to have a head start on the pitch - because you will know what to expect from a referee in any particular situation.
Given refereeing is a volunteering role, on top of these many considerations, your contribution on the pitch helps support grassroots football. So what do you say, are you going to make the right decision?
Find out how to become a referee in 2023 - email an EOI to recruitment@ssfra.org.au