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Teen ref turns her back on Sunday football due to abuse
6:41am Wednesday 27th February 2008
Comments (58)
By Adrian Kajumba »
A TEENAGE female football referee is turning her back on the Sunday League - because of the amount of verbal abuse she is receiving.
Emma Nuttall is set to quit refereeing parks football on the Sabbath after growing tired of waking up early to take charge of games that include players she believes are still "drunk" from the night before.
The 19-year-old Southampton-based warehouse operative, who has refereed for six years and officiated on Sunday for the last two, said: "Players moan about not being able to get referees for their games, but when they do, they treat them like rubbish.
"It makes you wonder why you get up at eight o'clock to go to a game and put up with abuse from players for an hour and a half.
"On Sundays, virtually every team gives you jip. Some of the players have probably just got home from a night out a few hours before kick-off and most of those are probably still drunk.
"Some teams take it seriously but a lot don't."
"I have spoken to a couple of referees about it and I think a lot of will pack it in if it continues.
"They may referee until the end of the season and pack in after that. If they do, I don't blame them."
The final straw for Nuttall came on a Sunday towards the end of last month, a week before two officials were physically assaulted in separate games.
She explained: ""One of the teams were losing and one of their players had a shot. The manager wanted a corner but I gave a goalkick.
"The manager started abusing me and asking what the hell was I doing?' "He was having a real go, so I sent him away - and then the players started getting involved.
"In the last couple of minutes, I gave a free-kick against his team on the edge of the box and one of their players who was about 6ft tall put his hand on me and went to push me.
"I didn't expect it and I was quite scared.
"All the other players joined in and started calling me all the names under the sun and carried on giving me abuse after the game.
"It was then I decided I didn't want to do Sundays any more. I did one more game and will now speak to the FA about stopping."
Emma plans to continue refereeing on Saturdays, running the line in the Wessex League and officiating in the Southern Women's County League.
She added: "On Saturdays the games are a better quality and the teams treat you better."
Hampshire FA chief executive Neil Cassar backed up Emma's warning and said everyone connected with grassroots football has a "duty" to ensure their behaviour does not turn officials away.
He said: "Anyone who has played a game without an official knows how difficult it is.
"Incidents like this are isolated and of course unwanted and we will be doing our best to make sure players behaviour improves and we get as many players out on the pitch to enjoy playing.
"Every player, club official and spectator has a duty to uphold the spirit of the game and if we are not careful Emma is quite right, we will lose more officials."
Your Say YourEcho
Stevie steve, Shoing says...
8:07am Wed 27 Feb 08
Something needs to be done, but quite what i'm not sure
take up rugby where the ref is called sir and if you abuse him your likely to get a clip round the ear from your own players
take up rugby where the ref is called sir and if you abuse him your likely to get a clip round the ear from your own players
julie, at home says...
8:15am Wed 27 Feb 08
I run a mens Saturday side in Winchester and we have trouble getting ref's I am sure alot of this is due to the problems of teams directing abuse at the ref. I know of several adult male refs who have given up because they are fed up with coming under attack. The problem lies with managers and officals not controlling their teams and spectators. If any of my guys were to launch anykind of attack on a ref, they would not be included in our team again. Saturday and Sunday football is supposed to be enjoyable, but unfortunatly there are some teams who are out of control and give all of us a bad name
mullingar, says...
8:30am Wed 27 Feb 08
You only have to watch a kids game in the Eastleigh and District Mini Leagues to see where the problem starts - parents shouting and swearing at referees, team managers equally abusing referees and oppositions parents - and this is kids football?
No wonder young referees are coming into the game and leaving soon after - who can blame them?
Why don't associations and organisers of the leagues ban these clubs?
No wonder young referees are coming into the game and leaving soon after - who can blame them?
Why don't associations and organisers of the leagues ban these clubs?
mangobean, Eastleigh says...
8:35am Wed 27 Feb 08
Emma Nuttall is set to quit refereeing parks football on the Sabbath after growing tired of waking up early to take charge of games that include players she believes are still "drunk" from the night before.
Easy!
Tell Tony Iommi to drop Ozzy from the squad.
Problem solved.
Saints Girls U16's Dad, says...
9:52am Wed 27 Feb 08
My daughter plays for Southampton Saints Ladies U16's and Emma has ref'd our matches on several occasions. She is one of the very best refs we've had and a pleasant lady as well. I think it's terrible that she and other refs are subjected to such abuse and I hope we continue to see her refereeing at Girls and Ladies games on Sundays.
sailor sam, portsmouth says...
10:21am Wed 27 Feb 08
Fred wrote:She is 19 Fred!
Sunday Morning football then? She's obviuously no good AND back page news? Who really cares???
She is, or was attempting to gain refereeing experience, and that starts in the lower leagues Fred.
I don't know whether your are a player, or just an ignorant pratt who has thinks they are making an intelligent comment on a problem that is facing football Fred!
Whatever your background, I could well believe that you would be one of the loud-mouths that has caused Emma to consider quitting Fred.
Could it possibly be that you work (if employable) for your Daddy, and so do not have to gain work experience, and expect to start at the to, the same as you appear to expect Emma to do?
Sometimes it is better to keep your comments to yourself, and let people think you are a moron, rather than air you views and confirm it!
mr.southampton, Southampton says...
10:35am Wed 27 Feb 08
I played Sunday League a few years ago but gave up after seeing too many games turning violent, I could really write a book on the stuff I've seen, cars being keyed, dressing room fights and assults on ref's.
The problem is one that goes right to the top, professional players, managers and commentators who fail to show respect and constantly criticise ref's undermine the authourity of ref's who get up early on a Sunday morning to make sure the rest of us get a decent game of football.
I've played in games before where an opposing manager has refereed and they have been ridiculous, one time I was even getiting my shirt pulled so much it was strangling me, but no foul was given! A qualified ref makes a big difference to the game so it's sad to see another one, an experienced one at that, give up.
On a practical note I feel that the local FA's do little to support referees who are in most cases on their own when they are officiating. There are also no effective identity checks to ensure that banned players do not play under an assumed name.
Considering the money at the top of the game it's a pity that more resources cannot be directed towards better ensuring the safety of grass roots officials.
At the very least players guilty of any violent incident including assulting a referee should be given a lengthy, if not a life ban. This should be enforced by the Local FA carrying out spot checks to check banned players aren't flouting the rules.
The problem is one that goes right to the top, professional players, managers and commentators who fail to show respect and constantly criticise ref's undermine the authourity of ref's who get up early on a Sunday morning to make sure the rest of us get a decent game of football.
I've played in games before where an opposing manager has refereed and they have been ridiculous, one time I was even getiting my shirt pulled so much it was strangling me, but no foul was given! A qualified ref makes a big difference to the game so it's sad to see another one, an experienced one at that, give up.
On a practical note I feel that the local FA's do little to support referees who are in most cases on their own when they are officiating. There are also no effective identity checks to ensure that banned players do not play under an assumed name.
Considering the money at the top of the game it's a pity that more resources cannot be directed towards better ensuring the safety of grass roots officials.
At the very least players guilty of any violent incident including assulting a referee should be given a lengthy, if not a life ban. This should be enforced by the Local FA carrying out spot checks to check banned players aren't flouting the rules.
Fred, Here says...
10:39am Wed 27 Feb 08
sailor sam wrote:Its simple really Sam, She has officiated one of my Sat games Sam and she didnt cover her self in any glory at all Sam, actually made situations worse Sam. Thats not to say Sam that I got on her back, far from it Sam, I felt sorry for her. But as someone posted above Sam, perhaps she would be better gaining the much needed experience doing ladies games where she would in all probability get more respect. At the end of the day Sam, everyone knows what Sundays are like and she is choosing to put her self in that position.
Fred wrote: Sunday Morning football then? She's obviuously no good AND back page news? Who really cares???She is 19 Fred! She is, or was attempting to gain refereeing experience, and that starts in the lower leagues Fred. I don't know whether your are a player, or just an ignorant pratt who has thinks they are making an intelligent comment on a problem that is facing football Fred! Whatever your background, I could well believe that you would be one of the loud-mouths that has caused Emma to consider quitting Fred. Could it possibly be that you work (if employable) for your Daddy, and so do not have to gain work experience, and expect to start at the to, the same as you appear to expect Emma to do? Sometimes it is better to keep your comments to yourself, and let people think you are a moron, rather than air you views and confirm it!
Back page news? Dont think so, but again it does tie in nicely with another Echo campaign.
Oh and it's the little, look at me, look at my chip, I'm not talking to you who refs that you want to watch out for Sam.
Chris, Southampton says...
11:41am Wed 27 Feb 08
There are also no effective identity checks to ensure that banned players do not play under an assumed name.
Actually in the Southampton and district Sunday League each player signed on has to provide a passport photo which is displayed on the website and can be viewed by opposing managers, therefor pictures can be printed off and taken too matches
One of the biggest problems of not having a qualified ref I feel is that violent players offen get sent off but unless the ref is qualified it is not reported so that individual is free to playon
Actually in the Southampton and district Sunday League each player signed on has to provide a passport photo which is displayed on the website and can be viewed by opposing managers, therefor pictures can be printed off and taken too matches
One of the biggest problems of not having a qualified ref I feel is that violent players offen get sent off but unless the ref is qualified it is not reported so that individual is free to playon
Ted, Southampton says...
11:43am Wed 27 Feb 08
Fred wrote:Fred,
sailor sam wrote:Its simple really Sam, She has officiated one of my Sat games Sam and she didnt cover her self in any glory at all Sam, actually made situations worse Sam. Thats not to say Sam that I got on her back, far from it Sam, I felt sorry for her. But as someone posted above Sam, perhaps she would be better gaining the much needed experience doing ladies games where she would in all probability get more respect. At the end of the day Sam, everyone knows what Sundays are like and she is choosing to put her self in that position. Back page news? Dont think so, but again it does tie in nicely with another Echo campaign. Oh and it's the little, look at me, look at my chip, I'm not talking to you who refs that you want to watch out for Sam.Fred wrote: Sunday Morning football then? She's obviuously no good AND back page news? Who really cares???She is 19 Fred! She is, or was attempting to gain refereeing experience, and that starts in the lower leagues Fred. I don't know whether your are a player, or just an ignorant pratt who has thinks they are making an intelligent comment on a problem that is facing football Fred! Whatever your background, I could well believe that you would be one of the loud-mouths that has caused Emma to consider quitting Fred. Could it possibly be that you work (if employable) for your Daddy, and so do not have to gain work experience, and expect to start at the to, the same as you appear to expect Emma to do? Sometimes it is better to keep your comments to yourself, and let people think you are a moron, rather than air you views and confirm it!
It is only a game mate.
Ted
sailor sam, portsmouth says...
11:58am Wed 27 Feb 08
Fred wrote:Fred. You write as if you are an official at a club where she has officiated.
sailor sam wrote:Its simple really Sam, She has officiated one of my Sat games Sam and she didnt cover her self in any glory at all Sam, actually made situations worse Sam. Thats not to say Sam that I got on her back, far from it Sam, I felt sorry for her. But as someone posted above Sam, perhaps she would be better gaining the much needed experience doing ladies games where she would in all probability get more respect. At the end of the day Sam, everyone knows what Sundays are like and she is choosing to put her self in that position. Back page news? Dont think so, but again it does tie in nicely with another Echo campaign. Oh and it's the little, look at me, look at my chip, I'm not talking to you who refs that you want to watch out for Sam.Fred wrote: Sunday Morning football then? She's obviuously no good AND back page news? Who really cares???She is 19 Fred! She is, or was attempting to gain refereeing experience, and that starts in the lower leagues Fred. I don't know whether your are a player, or just an ignorant pratt who has thinks they are making an intelligent comment on a problem that is facing football Fred! Whatever your background, I could well believe that you would be one of the loud-mouths that has caused Emma to consider quitting Fred. Could it possibly be that you work (if employable) for your Daddy, and so do not have to gain work experience, and expect to start at the to, the same as you appear to expect Emma to do? Sometimes it is better to keep your comments to yourself, and let people think you are a moron, rather than air you views and confirm it!
If this is the case, I assume that you had the opportunity to make a match report to the appropriate authority.
If you reported her short-comings and gave her a poor marking, then they would take appropriate steps to ensure she had further training.
It has to be borne in mind that she would have 'progressed' to your game, unless your club was in a very minor league, then she would have been starting off, getting her experience.
Officials moniter Ref's performances, and are then allocated games according to the past performances, they are not just 'wheeled out'!
To qualify, they have to pass exams, and end up knowing considerably more about the rules than those that are playing the game.
Perhaps it would be a good idea if Football Clubs, AT ALL LEVELS, ensured that they understood the rule, and then encouraged to play by them and respect the Ref's decision, whether they are male or female!
realist, says...
12:09pm Wed 27 Feb 08
The problem is one that goes right to the top, professional players, managers and commentators who fail to show respect and constantly criticise ref's
No, the problem startsright at the top with those overpaid, small-brained, big-headed louts in the Premier League and they're ruining it for people like this kid, who sounds a decent sort just trying to do a job she clearly enjoys (or used to, at any rate)
No, the problem startsright at the top with those overpaid, small-brained, big-headed louts in the Premier League and they're ruining it for people like this kid, who sounds a decent sort just trying to do a job she clearly enjoys (or used to, at any rate)
Unbelievable Jeff!!, Somewhere says...
12:14pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Poor Old Daily Echo again
Emma has not quit! She has only decided to pack in Sunday Morning's. She does have a point with some behavioural issues in local matches, but she will progress up the ladder if she concentrates on Saturday and Ladies football.
Report the facts please Daily Echo!!!!!!!!!!
Emma has not quit! She has only decided to pack in Sunday Morning's. She does have a point with some behavioural issues in local matches, but she will progress up the ladder if she concentrates on Saturday and Ladies football.
Report the facts please Daily Echo!!!!!!!!!!
Eh?, says...
12:34pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Unbelievable Jeff!! wrote:Where does it say she's quit football altogether then?
Poor Old Daily Echo again Emma has not quit! She has only decided to pack in Sunday Morning's. She does have a point with some behavioural issues in local matches, but she will progress up the ladder if she concentrates on Saturday and Ladies football. Report the facts please Daily Echo!!!!!!!!!!
Perhaps if you read it properly...
ironic, ironyland says...
1:02pm Wed 27 Feb 08
how about an Echo campaign aimed at the managers who spend half their games abusing officials ?
perhaps we could start with Baird or Andy Leader at Winchester, but then while the echo continues to big them up its not going to happen is it ?
perhaps we could start with Baird or Andy Leader at Winchester, but then while the echo continues to big them up its not going to happen is it ?
jim oakes, southampton says...
1:04pm Wed 27 Feb 08
I have been a referee for nine years now and i started off doing mens games aswell tyro football.but i gave up the mens football because of the abuse that most referees get for giving up their free time so these so called football players and managers can go out and kick a ball around on a saturday & sunday and why do we do it its because we like the game but not the abuse that we get.
I have known emma since she started and i have found her a great woman & Referee and tyro would love to have her back so she dont miss out on her enjoyment of football on a sunday.
I still enjoy my time with tyro football and always will do.
It is a shame that men cannot behave them selves for 90 minutes of football and show a bit of respect for referee's for giving them a game of football.
How would a player feel if a referee started giving them abuse and telling them how rubbish they are?
I have known emma since she started and i have found her a great woman & Referee and tyro would love to have her back so she dont miss out on her enjoyment of football on a sunday.
I still enjoy my time with tyro football and always will do.
It is a shame that men cannot behave them selves for 90 minutes of football and show a bit of respect for referee's for giving them a game of football.
How would a player feel if a referee started giving them abuse and telling them how rubbish they are?
steve, Bitterne says...
1:20pm Wed 27 Feb 08
My sons under 11's game was abandoned by the Ref last Sunday as the opposition teams parents and Manager kept giving the Ref abuse. Thankfully my sons team are very well behaved and are told that under no circumstances will any abuse to the ref or anyone else be tolerated. Until the FA get tough the problem with refs will get worse. Some parents should hold their head in shame as to how they act watching their kids. If the parents can't behave then the kids pick up on it, Emma is welcome to ref our games anytime. How many parents will give up their free time to ref a game, none so they should shut up because no ref means no game
Verbal Kint, Southampton says...
2:02pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Easy solution to all of the problems here. when a player is booked or sent off for abusing the referee, ban them until they have taken a referees course and officiated at least 3 games, at their own expense. secondly, on the point of players playing whilst banned under assumed names, make it the responsibility of each individual club to carry around a 'license' for each player on their team which has a name, passport photograph and an official stamp from the respective league they play in. this can be checked prior to the game by the opposing managers. If the Hants fa and local leagues are genuinely serious about stopping these problems then there is no reason why this could not be applied from the start of next season surely?
Raise the bar, says...
2:19pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Compared to the amount of local league games played in Southampton on a typical weekend,the cases of excessive abuse towards referees pales into insignificance.Good referees who know how to speak to players properly never seem to be the ones complaining - it always seems to be the weak ones who feel that the only way to referee a game is in an arrogant and dismissive manner that encounter problems. Most referees go in to a game expecting a level of "stick" - the more experienced guys know how to deal with it,unfortunately the less experienced ones struggle.
Training officers at local level have a responsibility to the officials themselves and the teams participating to ensure that the refereeing is of a certain standard.
Training officers at local level have a responsibility to the officials themselves and the teams participating to ensure that the refereeing is of a certain standard.
Verbal Kint, Southampton says...
2:43pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Laws of Football -
Law 12- Fouls and Misconduct
Sending off Offences
6. Uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and / or gestures
Its there in black and white for any footballer to read on the website of the governing body, the FA.
Maybe these referees referred to by 'raise the bar' are just creating a rod for the backs of the up and coming referees in the game by not applying the laws of the game.
Law 12- Fouls and Misconduct
Sending off Offences
6. Uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and / or gestures
Its there in black and white for any footballer to read on the website of the governing body, the FA.
Maybe these referees referred to by 'raise the bar' are just creating a rod for the backs of the up and coming referees in the game by not applying the laws of the game.
Simple, Soton says...
2:46pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Simply put, football attracts alot of simple folk, who have very little to offer in human dignity and respect for others. Half wits brought up by half wits, and the problem continues.........
I don't include everyone that likes football, just a large majority!
I don't include everyone that likes football, just a large majority!
Idiot Detector, says...
2:54pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Thanks very much Simple for being just that - Simple!
Costa Baz, says...
3:01pm Wed 27 Feb 08
The only way to improve the standard of referees is for all footballers and all managers to STOP CHEATING. Sure there are some bad referees at all levels of football, but there are also plenty of good ones that are being made to look poor by the cheating Ba***rds that call themselves "sportsmen". From my angle the only person that enters the pitch during the course of a game, with the sole intention of being honest, is the referee. Everyone else will, at some time during the game, try to win a free kick, throw in, goal or corner kick despite knowing it is not theirs to be had. It is this constant cheating and pressuring of the ref that leads to errors of judgement. As I said in the first sentence, there are some bad refs, and some do need more training, but if the players were to stop cheating we would see better standards of refereeing shine through as the ref wouldn't be conned into making so many errors. So if you want a better ref, do something about your own standard of behaviour.
Idiot Detector, says...
3:02pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Judging by his comments,Verbal kint has never played competitive football or been involved in club administration!
Fred, Here says...
3:16pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Another point being that this would never have made the paper if she wasnt a girl.
And please dont patronise me, Ive got nothing against Girls playing football.
Word of the the day: Patriarchy
And please dont patronise me, Ive got nothing against Girls playing football.
Word of the the day: Patriarchy
Verbal Kint, Southampton says...
3:33pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Idiot Detector wrote:15 years playing, and the best part of 10 years managing and asst managing at Senior League / Hampshire League clubs actually.
Judging by his comments,Verbal kint has never played competitive football or been involved in club administration!
Idiot Detector, says...
3:42pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Verbal Kint wrote:You're making that up.
Idiot Detector wrote: Judging by his comments,Verbal kint has never played competitive football or been involved in club administration!15 years playing, and the best part of 10 years managing and asst managing at Senior League / Hampshire League clubs actually.
lies, southampton says...
3:53pm Wed 27 Feb 08
steve wrote:this is a lie and by the way the manager of the team you are trying to make look bad is a a ref as well
My sons under 11's game was abandoned by the Ref last Sunday as the opposition teams parents and Manager kept giving the Ref abuse. Thankfully my sons team are very well behaved and are told that under no circumstances will any abuse to the ref or anyone else be tolerated. Until the FA get tough the problem with refs will get worse. Some parents should hold their head in shame as to how they act watching their kids. If the parents can't behave then the kids pick up on it, Emma is welcome to ref our games anytime. How many parents will give up their free time to ref a game, none so they should shut up because no ref means no game
and i can tell u this no one a abused the ref so why dont you stop puting lies on here and tell the truth
people like you make me sick
referee, southampton says...
3:57pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Idiot Detector wrote:You don't have to look that far to see that your idiot detector works just look in the mirror.
Verbal Kint wrote:You\'re making that up.Idiot Detector wrote: Judging by his comments,Verbal kint has never played competitive football or been involved in club administration!15 years playing, and the best part of 10 years managing and asst managing at Senior League / Hampshire League clubs actually.
Verbal Kint, Southampton says...
4:02pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Idiot Detector wrote:believe what you like, but what has it to do with implementing the solutions mentioned in my previous posts? surely any correct thinking individual would agree that they are easy to implement by the governing bodies. (basketball at all ages has had the system for individual registration cards in place for years both here and in US). Keep up the good work Emma and all other aspiring referees, and dont let the ignorant few discourage you from doing what you love
Verbal Kint wrote:You're making that up.Idiot Detector wrote: Judging by his comments,Verbal kint has never played competitive football or been involved in club administration!15 years playing, and the best part of 10 years managing and asst managing at Senior League / Hampshire League clubs actually.
Calm down dear, says...
4:14pm Wed 27 Feb 08
lies wrote:Seeing as there is nothing in what Steve said that could possibly identify ANYONE if think you're jumping the gun and being a bit hyper-sensitive.
steve wrote: My sons under 11's game was abandoned by the Ref last Sunday as the opposition teams parents and Manager kept giving the Ref abuse. Thankfully my sons team are very well behaved and are told that under no circumstances will any abuse to the ref or anyone else be tolerated. Until the FA get tough the problem with refs will get worse. Some parents should hold their head in shame as to how they act watching their kids. If the parents can't behave then the kids pick up on it, Emma is welcome to ref our games anytime. How many parents will give up their free time to ref a game, none so they should shut up because no ref means no gamethis is a lie and by the way the manager of the team you are trying to make look bad is a a ref as well and i can tell u this no one a abused the ref so why dont you stop puting lies on here and tell the truth people like you make me sick
Rob, Soton says...
4:15pm Wed 27 Feb 08
It largely boils down to a complete lack of respect for officials in football. No other major team sport allows such abuse towards the ref.
Rugby refs will push you back 10 yards or sinbin you for any dissent.
Cricket umpires don't receive the level of abuse seen in football.
Hockey umpires with issue a card just for swearing, whether it is directed at the umpire or not.
Just goes to show really that "football is a gentlemens sport played by hooligans (, while rugby is a hooligans sport played by gentlemen)" ...... and i know which I'd rather be playing !!
Rugby refs will push you back 10 yards or sinbin you for any dissent.
Cricket umpires don't receive the level of abuse seen in football.
Hockey umpires with issue a card just for swearing, whether it is directed at the umpire or not.
Just goes to show really that "football is a gentlemens sport played by hooligans (, while rugby is a hooligans sport played by gentlemen)" ...... and i know which I'd rather be playing !!
Andrew Peterson, Romsey says...
4:23pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Fred "Everyone knows what Sundays are like".
Raise the bar "weak referees etc etc".
WRONG
I don't see how anyone can condone the level of abuse aimed at referees. If Fred, Raise the bar and others think they can do better they should attend and PASS a referees' course, then take some games themselves.
Jim Oakes is 100% RIGHT.
Like him, I have been a ref for many years; like him , I gave up refereeing in adult football because of the abuse I was getting.
LIke him, I still officiate in Tyro football. One 12-year old player recently called me a cheat, whilst a team mate of his allegedly used the word 'c**t'. Such children are following the disgraceful 'example' set by their parents. Anyone who criticises a referee MUST first see to his/her own behaviour.
The critics should also LEARN the Laws of the Game before having a go at those who enforce them. One parent recently complained, incorrectly, that my assistants could only give corners, goal kicks and throw-ins. WRONG. They have full authority to make decisions on fouls etc unless I say otherwise. Neither they, nor those of us 'in the middle' should have to put up with any abuse. EVER
Despite everything, I eagerly await details of 'my' games every week. I will be honoured if appointed to cup semi-finals and finals in the weeks to come. I look forward to the matches and will take every opportunity I get to work with, help and support new referees, without whom the Game I love has no future
Raise the bar "weak referees etc etc".
WRONG
I don't see how anyone can condone the level of abuse aimed at referees. If Fred, Raise the bar and others think they can do better they should attend and PASS a referees' course, then take some games themselves.
Jim Oakes is 100% RIGHT.
Like him, I have been a ref for many years; like him , I gave up refereeing in adult football because of the abuse I was getting.
LIke him, I still officiate in Tyro football. One 12-year old player recently called me a cheat, whilst a team mate of his allegedly used the word 'c**t'. Such children are following the disgraceful 'example' set by their parents. Anyone who criticises a referee MUST first see to his/her own behaviour.
The critics should also LEARN the Laws of the Game before having a go at those who enforce them. One parent recently complained, incorrectly, that my assistants could only give corners, goal kicks and throw-ins. WRONG. They have full authority to make decisions on fouls etc unless I say otherwise. Neither they, nor those of us 'in the middle' should have to put up with any abuse. EVER
Despite everything, I eagerly await details of 'my' games every week. I will be honoured if appointed to cup semi-finals and finals in the weeks to come. I look forward to the matches and will take every opportunity I get to work with, help and support new referees, without whom the Game I love has no future
Abbi, Southampton says...
4:24pm Wed 27 Feb 08
i think its good that she had the guts to referee games. i want to but i think that if females referee mens matches and blow their whistle for a free kick or summin they go mad.
in female matches its sooo much betta we just have a laff n like having lady refs.
in female matches its sooo much betta we just have a laff n like having lady refs.
sherinsul, Woolston says...
6:04pm Wed 27 Feb 08
as Emmas aunt you 'footy freaks' are mad, Emma has come home in tears some weeks, a bit of appreciation wouldn't go amiss.
Zoe, London says...
7:18pm Wed 27 Feb 08
I think it is disgusting the way all officials are treated in football. I think it is due to a lack of respect in football in general! You see it from grass roots right up to professional standards. I think we need to see more officiating like that we see in rugby, it is so much nicer to see players respecting decisions. Why bother arguing anyways? The ref NEVER changes their minds!!
Emma, I think its brilliant that as a woman you were trying to break into the mens Sunday leagues, it is tough for men to bgein with! It is a shame that you have been subjected to such violent behaviour, but unfortunately that is football and as long as the Wayne Rooneys and Ronaldos still do it then kids will watch and learn that even at that level it is acceptable!
Emma, I think its brilliant that as a woman you were trying to break into the mens Sunday leagues, it is tough for men to bgein with! It is a shame that you have been subjected to such violent behaviour, but unfortunately that is football and as long as the Wayne Rooneys and Ronaldos still do it then kids will watch and learn that even at that level it is acceptable!
John Foy, Southampton says...
8:47pm Wed 27 Feb 08
To Emma's Aunt I can tell you (as seen by some posts earlier) many of us appreciate the efforts of Emma and her fellow referees. Indeed Emma refereed one of my veterans matches earlier this season and did a fine job. Unfortunately there are foolish people who believe that because "referees expect a level of stick" that they are fair game for abuse, and this is communicated to players, parents and supporters. Perhaps if more managers "raised the bar" and actually had a reasonable knowledge of FIFA Laws of the Game better behaviour would follow. Zoe is correct in that referees never change their mind so it continues to amaze me why players involve themselves in verbals as all it leads to is a loss of concentration and performance. A qualified referee does make a difference to the game and most of us in local league football appreciate the efforts of the man(woman) in black. How do we overcome this persistent repetition of abuse? How about each club has to pay a "bond" at the start of the season, which is repayable at the end providing the club reaches a charter standard of respect to the match official. If they fail then a percentage of the payment is withheld. Pretty soon decent respectful players will drive out the nutters from their club because it hurts their pocket.
sailor sam, portsmouth says...
8:50pm Wed 27 Feb 08
Fred wrote:Patronising?
Another point being that this would never have made the paper if she wasnt a girl. And please dont patronise me, Ive got nothing against Girls playing football. Word of the the day: Patriarchy
Who was it said that she should go back to refereeing ladies matches?
She has had six years experience of refereeing matches, and should be allowed to progress, and be promoted to higher league matches, of either sex, with no restriction.
So you consider Patriarchy is the word of the day! In my opinion, as far as football is concerned, that is 24 hours to long!
Male chauvanism is usually the defence mechanism of the male who feels threatened by female competition on a level playing field!
I think that you will find yourself 'playing up hill'!
dave wookey, southampton says...
9:05pm Wed 27 Feb 08
to steve in bitterne if your team is so fair why was my son chopped down like an animal 3 times when threw on goal ? maybe this is why some parents get irritated ! you should be ashamed of your teams manager for teaching 10 year olds to do this . i have every respect for every ref as i no it must be hard but people like you dont help .
kirsty, southampton says...
2:01pm Thu 28 Feb 08
i know emma as a friend have been to a few matches with her to watch her ref. sunday are alot different, playes seem to be more competative, this leading to the abuse i think. drinking could be a factor- who knows.
when ever i have watch emma ref she has done a great job and the players themselfs say so.
as a girl who likes football myself and did consider being a ref after emmas advice, i know i never will be one. after some of the things i have seen or heard about. just because she is a woman the players seem to think she isn't as qualified as the male refs. when in some cases she could be better! i think men as a whole need to reconise woman in football look how well the England womans football team did!!!
its just anoying to think that i know how much she loves refing and even playing but because of certain small mined people she is being pushed out of a job she loves! i mean defend your team yes but is the abuse really worth it!! its not just emma who is subjected to it either other ref are. how is this fair?
rightly so you moan if you don't have a ref for your game but they are being drove away but this sillyness!
when ever i have watch emma ref she has done a great job and the players themselfs say so.
as a girl who likes football myself and did consider being a ref after emmas advice, i know i never will be one. after some of the things i have seen or heard about. just because she is a woman the players seem to think she isn't as qualified as the male refs. when in some cases she could be better! i think men as a whole need to reconise woman in football look how well the England womans football team did!!!
its just anoying to think that i know how much she loves refing and even playing but because of certain small mined people she is being pushed out of a job she loves! i mean defend your team yes but is the abuse really worth it!! its not just emma who is subjected to it either other ref are. how is this fair?
rightly so you moan if you don't have a ref for your game but they are being drove away but this sillyness!
Fred, Avoiding Sailor boy Sams tendencies... says...
2:39pm Thu 28 Feb 08
sailor sam wrote:Who was it said that she should go back to refereeing ladies matches
Fred wrote: Another point being that this would never have made the paper if she wasnt a girl. And please dont patronise me, Ive got nothing against Girls playing football. Word of the the day: PatriarchyPatronising? Who was it said that she should go back to refereeing ladies matches? She has had six years experience of refereeing matches, and should be allowed to progress, and be promoted to higher league matches, of either sex, with no restriction. So you consider Patriarchy is the word of the day! In my opinion, as far as football is concerned, that is 24 hours to long! Male chauvanism is usually the defence mechanism of the male who feels threatened by female competition on a level playing field! I think that you will find yourself 'playing up hill'!
Talk about twisting my words! This was in the context of limiting the abuse dished out by those who havent got a clue.
She has had six years experience of refereeing matches, and should be allowed to progress, and be promoted to higher league matches, of either sex, with no restriction
Youre right but the article in question is about Sundays, She's still reffing Sats...
Cyber warrior alert...
Muppet
Sara, southampton says...
4:04pm Thu 28 Feb 08
My son plays under11's football and his game was abondoned on sunday as the ref claims to have been verbally assaulted by the a parent and manager i was there and go to watch him play every week and have never seen such a poor display of refing the parent and manager did not swear or be aggressive all they did was give there opinon on a decision that the ref had made. i understand that if there was aggressive behaviour the ref has the right to stop the game and would support that.but there has to be some common sense here as the only ones that suffer are the kids.Surely you are allowed to voice an opinon and the boys are always respectful of the ref.
fabio cappello, says...
5:52pm Thu 28 Feb 08
she's never managing a game for england
Chris, Southampton says...
7:12pm Thu 28 Feb 08
Like I said before I run a mens team and recently had Emma as a ref, and she did a good job although we have never had any problems with dicipline in the team. We are just a ground of mates that wanna play a game of football on a Sunday morning.
To combat referee abuse I think that every mangager of a Sunday/Saturday League team, should HAVE to take the referee course. I took it when I was 14 and went on to referee Tyro football for 4 years and it gives you a completely different perspective on the game.
Thats where for me the abuse starts. If a manager tells a player or parent that abusing the ref is unnaceptable then it should stop, if it doesn't then the player or parent is asked to leave the club and never return!
I am no saint, I have questioned a ref's decision on many occasions but there is a way of doing with out trying to intimidate him/her.
To combat referee abuse I think that every mangager of a Sunday/Saturday League team, should HAVE to take the referee course. I took it when I was 14 and went on to referee Tyro football for 4 years and it gives you a completely different perspective on the game.
Thats where for me the abuse starts. If a manager tells a player or parent that abusing the ref is unnaceptable then it should stop, if it doesn't then the player or parent is asked to leave the club and never return!
I am no saint, I have questioned a ref's decision on many occasions but there is a way of doing with out trying to intimidate him/her.
Chris, Southampton says...
7:15pm Thu 28 Feb 08
Oh and just to add the procedure for reporting a ref for a bad perfromance is a joke as they WILL always believe a referee over you.
You amrk them out of ten after the game and if it is lower than 5 you have to write a report explaining why and enclose a cheque for £30, which is basically there to stop you reporting them!
You amrk them out of ten after the game and if it is lower than 5 you have to write a report explaining why and enclose a cheque for £30, which is basically there to stop you reporting them!
TFLS, The South Coast Riviera says...
7:38pm Thu 28 Feb 08
Does she munch carpets?
unknown, says...
12:04pm Fri 29 Feb 08
Once again, another referee making the headlines.
Only if people knew the real story.
Only if people knew the real story.
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Chris, Southampton says...
7:14am Wed 27 Feb 08
As a manager it is so nice when a ref is appointed as it takes a bit of pressureoff either me having to do it or finding someone else. Its just a shame that referees aren't treated better as I think it would help improve the standard of Sunday League football.
Something needs to be done, but quite what i'm not sure