How old do you have to be to ref an under 16s game

[HullRef]

Me too but I can't at the moment as I am too young

 

[CA]

Well I'm 16 in January, and also contemplating whether to start open age straight away, how did you find your first few games compared to youth games?

Will, I found them a lot more physically demanding, as they can kick it a lot further and also move the ball a lot quicker (well some teams). But other than that, it is still 11v11.

 

[Will Davison]

Ok, thanks a lot

 

[Grayson]

It's been a long time since I made the jump, but every now and then I'll do an U16 game on a free Sunday. The thing I'd imagine (other than obvious physicality) stands out is the sudden drop of skill level. Players at U16 can be quite competent, and when you jump "up" to your local league's Junior Division 8 on a Saturday afternoon, it can be quite eye-opening.

If you know any local refs you can go and watch at that level, join 'em for the day!

If anyone is Hampshire-based, always welcome to come find me on a game somewhere. :]