Question Number: 18123

Character, Attitude and Control 12/13/2007

RE: select/competitive Under 19

Robert Herndon of San Marcos, TX US asks...

Is there a code of ethics for referees?

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

The U. S. Soccer Federation National Program for Referee Development, through the involvement of each referee, is recognized by players, coaches and administrators as a program which consistently provides excellence in officiating and displays the highest level of professionalism through service and dedication.

To accomplish this, I, as a referee, am committed to:

1. Officiating matches in a fair and safe manner that ensures player and spectator enjoyment.

2. Maintaining my physical fitness for peak performance.

3. Faithfully keeping all appointments assigned to and accepted by me.

4. Supporting my fellow officials with loyalty, pride and dignity.

5. Conducting myself in a way to be ethically and morally beyond
reproach.

6. Granting players and coaches dignity and self-respect.

7. Contributing to the overall development of the National Program for Referee Development.

8. Remaining committed to continuous learning and an improvement process that enables me to perform to my full potential.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

You'll find the Code of Ethics in the Referee Administrative Handbook.

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Yes there is. All referees should have read it in the Referee Administrative Handbook given to referees at their entry level clinics.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

In my opinion,
No handbook is required to have a person act honorably!

That said ethically challenged referees often do or say inappropriate things at inappropriate times. Sometimes it is done deliberately to hurt or inflict embarrassment or a temporary loss of temper or frustration!

The writing down of ethical guidelines or rules is in reality a question of ones character when dealing with others. I admittedly have passed judgment inappropriately not trying to be a jerk but succeeding none the less.
Remember to engage the brain before mouth is in gear! Also compassion and heart must factor in to the way in which advice is dispensed it is not commentary for public consumption.

Sound, sage advice is only delivered in a critical fashion at appropriate post game reviews not generally in open public forums.
Cheers

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 18906