Strengthening Referee Development Through Mentorship, Evaluation, and Assigning

We recently met with mentors, coaches, and assignors with a shared focus on referee development and retention.

The discussion covered how new referees are being taught on the field, emphasizing progressive instruction, clear demonstrations, proper movement, and consistent mechanics. We also spent time strengthening our approach to evaluations and mentoring, reinforcing the importance of positive, factual feedback aligned with FIFA considerations.

Additional conversations with assignors focused on communication, education, mentoring, matching referees to appropriate assignments, and continuing to build a supportive referee community across Maryland.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, insight, and commitment to improving the referee pathway at all levels.