Insights into Soccer Officiating and Referees' Roles

Some soccer officials may not have a background or interest in soccer but officiate games in the off-season from football. Officiating soccer games can be financially rewarding with referees earning more than $50 per high school game. Refereeing keeps officials in good physical shape, with one referee mentioning they covered eight miles in just two games. The officiating team consists of the head referee, called the center, and two assistant referees on the sidelines. The center position involves more steps and requires rotating roles with assistant referees. The authority of the center referee is somewhat expected to be respected by the other officials.