Assistant referee in position to make a call.
Fellow Referees:
Thank for the awesome game coverage during week #1. It was great to see numerous games covered in all divisions. I commend you on your efforts.
Let’s Talk About Lightning and Thunder:
I think we did a pretty good job of clearing the fields on Saturday. Please remember at the first sound of thunder or if see lightning, we should use the loudest whistle possible to stop the game. This will let others know that we have potential inclement weather issue. Don’t be afraid to stop the game for lightning and thunder. Our first instinct is to ignore it, but for safety sake…..LET’S GET THOSE FIELDS CLEARED!!! Once the fields clear, the only people that should be roaming around the fields are the field director (Joe Yates), Regional Commissioner (Roger Snook), Safety Director (Pam Goben), Coach Administrator (David Simmons) and Referee Administrator (me). Yes, I’ll take the lightning bolt for your safety 
. Actually, we won’t be out there until the lightning and thunder has passed for 20 minutes or so. We will be assessing the field conditions and making the decision on whether or not we continue to play for the day. Don’t forget to sign-up for text alerts at https://www.rainedout.net/team_page.php?a=04424034c6fb5d542e23. I am in charge of sending out those alerts and I can do it from a mobile phone.
Mentoring:
I hope all new referees are taking advantage of the mentoring program. This is great way to get reinforcement of what was covered in class. In addition, don’t forget to hang out at the referee tent. There is usually always soccer talk happening there.
Catch’em Being Good:
The Region always wants to know when there are issues with a game with notes on the game card. Whether it is coaches, players or spectators causing the issue….we want to know. However, three of our Six Philosophies are Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship, and Player Development. If you see a coach, spectator, or player exceeding in these philosophies, please note that on the card as well. Both issues and good comments get passed along to the Coach Administrator. Believe me this is not a one way street, I have received positive comments about referees in the past.
Referee Gear:
For new referees that have not picked up their gear it will again be available at the fields this week until 2:30 PM. Please remember that we do not purchase flags for every referee, but the Region has multiple sets available for use during the day.
Week #2 Afternoon Coverage:
I have previous engagement that will take me away from the field at 2:30 PM. I need a volunteer to take down the tent and place the game cards, AR flags, and tent in the shed. If two or three do it, it will take about 5 to 10 minutes.
Lastly, let’s remember to sign-up for games. If you have not registered in the scheduling system, please do so at https://ayso322.d4sportsreg.com/default.aspx. You will click on New Member. Signing up for games is important for the mentoring program as well as Matt’s stress level.
Thank you for volunteering with JCYSL!!!
