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In late 2023, I first wrote a publication about the shortage of soccer referees in the United States. One of the reasons I cited was the torment of constant criticism that officials undergo on a weekly basis. Adult referees cope with it better; however, for young ones, it is often too much to handle and most abandon the profession. Youth soccer needs referees to grow, without them, games cannot happen. US Soccer has recognized what many of us knew for years. “Without referees, there’s no game. Protecting our referees must become a priority”. Here are some concerning stats provided by US Soccer:

• 90% of referees report that abuse has increased over the last 5 years
• 60% of referees choose not to recertify due to harassment and threats

On March 1st, US Soccer’s update to the Referee Abuse Prevention (RAP) Policy (Policy 531-9) took effect. The policy update includes clearer definitions for physical and non-physical abuse -as well as stronger suspensions for reported referee abuse. The updated policy sets minimum expectations for suspensions for individuals who violate the policy.

What the policy does, is to increase the penalties for those who commit offences as outlined by the policy, and following disciplinary action taken by referees under the Laws of the Game. A nationwide reporting structure is currently in development as the next phase (3) of the process, but until this becomes available, referees should ensure that they continue reporting offences and disciplinary sanctions through the reporting process as determined by your local and/or state associations. All the information about the policy update, including the materials for download, can be found at www.ussoccer.com/rap.  Here is a summary:

Rules & Consequences

US Soccer is standing firm to protect referees and restore respect to the game. The updated policy includes stronger sanctions for any form of physical or non-physical abuse towards referees. Players, coaches, and parents are encouraged to learn what behaviors cross the line, so they can avoid penalties and help create a better culture for the future of soccer.

Summary

• Both Physical and Non-Physical Abuse Have No Place in Our Game.
• Suspensions will be for several games or time-based (or sometimes both) depending on severity and circumstance.
• Players, coaches, and spectators are all encouraged to report abuse.

Non-Physical Offenses

The penalties tables below define consequences associated with physical and non-physical offenses against referees. The first table contains non-physical offenses of gross misconduct, abuse, and / or assault.

Non-physical offense	Minimum Games	Time
Insulting, Belittling, Insinuating or Taunting Behavior Undermining Referee Authority	2
Harassment, Intimidation, Retaliation, Abusive, or Threatening (Non Physical) Language	4
Aggression, Attacking, Derogatory, Cyberbullying, Doxing or Threatening (Physical / Violence) Language	6	6-24 months
Offensive or Discriminatory Act	10	12 – 24 months

Physical Offenses

The second table contains non-physical offenses of gross misconduct, abuse, and / or assault.

Physical Offense	Minimum Games	Time
Minor or Slight Deliberate Touching 3 1 – 6 Months	3	1-6 months
Pushing, Grabbing, Pulling, Squeezing, Pinching, Lightly Slapping, Use of Object in Non Striking Manner, or Physical Property Damage	10	6 – 24 months
Hitting, Punching, Elbowing, Kicking, Biting, Spiting, Choking, Tackling, Throwing or Use of Object or Any Part of Body (Forearm, Knee, Head) in a Striking Manner		12 months – lifetime

Key Takeaways:

• Penalties can be both game and time depending on severity /circumstances
• Second time offenders receive double punishment
• Third time offenders receive a lifetime ban
• More than one offense at the same tim is at least the punishment for the most serious offense
• Offenses against minors are automatically subject to a “minor multiplier” resulting in triple punishment
• One offense warning per league to be managed by states and leagues collaboratively
• Game consequences are inclusive of 1 game penalty for any red cards given
• Optionality for 50% penalty for first offense from a minor

Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience soccer without risking his or her well-being. We must protect those in service to the game and we all have a role to play. The game belongs to all of us. To ensure that soccer remains a positive experience for everyone, we need your help to stop referee abuse. Here’s how you can make a difference:

Coaches: Lead by example. Set the tone for good sportsmanship with your players.

Players: Respect your referees, whether you agree with their calls or not.

Parents & Spectators: Cheer for your team, not against the referee. Help create a positive environment

Thank you to all our match officials for their continued efforts, and for doing your part to ensure that abuse and unwanted behaviors have no place in our game. Together, we can make another facet of the beautiful game continue to grow in this country. There is, however, a lot of work for coaches, players, parents, spectators and officials.

If you have topics you’d like us to address please, write to us at info@thegomezway.com

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