Since I started refereeing, one of the most surreal things is going to the places where I grew up. To officiate at the various youth and school games. Travelling through roads, seeing new-to-me houses and those brand spanking new pitches that were once spare ground where I wandered as a youngster. Youth games have a certain meaning, especially when you never got the chance to play as part of a team, be a teammate, or even be coached by someone who knew what they were doing. Being an official at these kinds of games are rewarding because you are happy for those who are able to do so now, and you are content that you're a part of a game you didn't manage to be a part of all those years ago.
Just an observation from an oldish-newish ref.
Just an observation from an oldish-newish ref.
