Getting it wrong: How to cope with making a bad decision as a football referee
Football can be a brutal game, especially for a referee that made a bad call. Whether you’re on the Sunday league or the world cup final, the possibility of making a mistake is ever-present. It’s not a question of if… but when.
Therefore, it’s important for new referees to learn how to cope when they make an inevitable mistake. Overcoming these ‘bad’ decisions will make you stronger but also teach you lessons about how to improve. They are an essential part of your development.
REFSIX has in-built logic to help prevent mistakes, so our first tip is to download the app as this will reduce errors in the first place. For example, the app won’t allow you to give two yellow cards without sending the player off.
Acceptance and accountability
The first step in coping with making a bad decision as a football referee is to accept that mistakes happen and take accountability for them. It's essential to acknowledge when you've made an error and not attempt to deflect blame onto external factors. By owning up to your mistakes, you demonstrate integrity and show that you're committed to upholding the standards of the game.
Maintain composure
When a referee realises they've made a bad decision, it's easy to become flustered or lose composure. However, it's crucial to remain calm and composed, especially in front of players, coaches, and spectators. Take a deep breath, focus on the task at hand, and continue officiating the match to the best of your ability. Dwelling on a mistake can lead to further errors and disrupt the flow of the game.
Learn from the experience
Every mistake presents an opportunity for learning and growth. After the match, take the time to reflect on the circumstances surrounding the bad decision. Was it a result of a lapse in concentration, poor positioning, or misinterpretation of the rules? Identify the root cause of the mistake and brainstorm strategies to prevent similar errors in the future. The REFSIX app makes this analysis super easy, as it gives you a timed breakdown of all the key match incidents and your fitness data. You can even see if you have an elevated heart rate when making a decision!
Seek support and feedback
Referees need to have a support system in place to help them cope with making bad decisions. Seek feedback from fellow referees, mentors, or officiating organisations. Discuss the incident openly and constructively, and be receptive to constructive criticism. Having a supportive network of colleagues can provide valuable perspective and encouragement during challenging times.
Move forward positively
After acknowledging a mistake and learning from the experience, referees must move forward positively. Dwelling on past errors can erode confidence and detract from future performances. Instead, focus on honing your skills, staying up-to-date with rule changes, and maintaining a positive attitude on and off the field. Remember that even the most experienced referees make mistakes, and it's how you respond to them that defines your character.
To learn how to become a better referee, sign up to our REFSIX academy, which gives you tips and tricks straight into your inbox.
Conclusion
Making a bad decision as a football referee is an inevitable part of the job. However, how you cope with those mistakes ultimately determines your effectiveness and longevity in the role. By accepting accountability, maintaining composure, learning from experiences, seeking support, and moving forward positively, referees can navigate the challenges of officiating with resilience and professionalism. So the next time you find yourself on the wrong end of a controversial decision, remember that it's not the end of the world – it's an opportunity to grow and improve as a referee.
Download REFSIX to start tracking your decisions, both good and bad! It’s free and can be used across a wide range of devices.
