MARYLAND STATE YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION JOINS 2023-2024 RESPECT-THE-REF CAMPAIGN TO IMPROVE SIDELINE BEHAVIOR AND PRIORITIZE FUN IN THE GAME OF SOCCER

Glenwood, M.D. (May 11, 2023) - MSYSA is proud to join Indiana Soccer, US Youth Soccer and 15 additional state associations to launch a 2023-2024 Respect-The-Ref Campaign targeted at improving sideline etiquette from spectators and coaches. Led by Indiana Soccer, a video was created to provide education and improve awareness around this critical topic.

Click here to watch the 1-minute video.

While the game continues on an incredible growth spurt, there has been a significantly alarming reduction in the number of available referees, the majority being young players who also enjoy officiating the game. High attrition rates have been due to a variety of factors such as the Covid pandemic and commitments to other activities. However, there has also been another concerning trend that has contributed to the amount of referees leaving the game: inappropriate sideline behavior. 

Supporters of this initiative are encouraged to share the Respect-The-Ref Campaign video to expand its important message. Lastly, we remind everyone once again that matches cannot be played without the hard work of referees, and we must all do our part to create a safe, friendly and fully inclusive soccer environment for our youth players to enjoy the game.