Developing the next generation of referees is critical to the future of the beautiful game. And the state of Florida has a unique program that is focused on developing them well in advance of the normal USSF certification.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Charley Cox, USSF Mentor and Futures Program Administrator in the panhandle of Florida. This is a program focused on kids 11-14 years of age and the results are nothing short of phenomenal.
Local soccer clubs sponsor the programs and provide safe environments for these young people to learn how to be a referee in a supportive environment. In additional to working age appropriate U6 - U8 matches, they are also paired with an onsite mentor who can provide coaching and feedback before, during and after their games.
Beyond the on field coaching, the state of Florida has developed their own curriculum that is age appropriate and focused on the key things that a young referee needs to focus on.
Charley told me that this past year, out of 11 Future Program referees in his area, 10 of them continued on to become USSF certified when the time came. That is an amazing retention rate! These refs are getting the training and guidance they need to gain confidence and the training necessary to succeed on the pitch.
Definitely check out my podcast linked here to learn more about Charley and this outstanding program! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/building-confidence-and-skills-the-florida/id1639462746?i=1000662076013
Here is a link to the Florida Futures Program if you want to learn more:
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzQVxbjPkZckkSChrSZVmkldNFTq?projector=1&messagePartId=0.3