Personal Statement

I became a referee when I turned twelve, which was my eighth grade year. I became a referee since my cousin was referring as well. I saw it as an opportunity to make some money and be involved in a sport I love. I’ve continued being a referee all these years, because I saw the positive benefits in my life. Refereeing has helped me develop my self-confidence, because I have to stand up for myself and be confident in my abilities. It also helped me become more outgoing, because I’m constantly talking to other referees, assignors, players, and coaches. I display moral behavior on the field by trying my hardest on every game I’m assigned to, be fair, and keep the game safe. I display moral behavior off the field by trying my hardest in my studies and extracurricular activities, following the rules, and not posting my opinion regarding my matches on social media. Some of the things I’ve done to improve my knowledge of the game is to be mentored, mentor new referees, ask questions about calls when I’m unsure, and talk to other referees about the laws of the game.

I encouraged my sister, Makaila, to become a referee, because I saw all of the positive benefits in my life, therefore I wanted that for other people. I try to correct other people when they talk about negatively about referees, because most referees try very hard and are invested in the game. I participate in soccer outside of refereeing by playing soccer for Shawnee Heights High School. I’ve created relationships with other referees in my community in order to promote and retain quality