The United States Soccer Federation understands that you cannot ask referees to perform at the top level unless you are willing to assist them in the knowledge and preparation to be at that level. We receive many instructional videos and classes like, “Week in Review” and our State, Regional and National instructors that assist us in the laws of the game and how to apply them. What they hadn’t advised us on until recently was how to approach our fitness.
Although these guidelines are designed for referees more at the professional level, the information is valuable to all. There is nothing better for a referee than to train just as if he were in a match. You will see as you read through that many of the workouts are interval running, sprints and back to interval running. This is much like a soccer match. The strength training will help with endurance and explosive moments as well.
To touch briefly on nutrition there is a document that talks about what to eat on a daily basis as well as what to eat on game day. It is even more important to stay hydrated than it is to eat correctly. Although they are both important, if you do not hydrate, you will suffer more injuries and fatigue. Use the information provided as it applies to you as a referee. Do as much as you can without straining or injuring yourself. It does you no good to try too hard and injure yourself, then have to sit out and heal.
Be Smart, Be Safe, Work hard and Be the best you can be.
