Question Number: 23548

Character, Attitude and Control 6/23/2010

RE: caregiver Adult

ROMAN of Safety Harbor, Florida usa asks...

all arbiters of the game should take an oath.!

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Just to make sure we're speaking the same language, here are a few definitions of arbiter I think are accurate.
someone with the power to settle matters at will

1. (Law) a person empowered to judge in a dispute; referee; arbitrator
2. a person having complete control of something

Referees do take an oath of sorts in that there is a code of ethics we are to adhere to. Every Federation has their own and I'm sure FIFA does too. Here is the USSF Referee Code Of Ethics

(C) - Code of Ethics for Referees
(1) I will always maintain the utmost respect for the game of soccer.
(2) I will conduct myself honorably at all times and maintain the dignity of my
position.
(3) I will always honor an assignment or any other contractual obligation.
(4) I will attend training meetings and clinics so as to know the Laws of the
Game, their proper interpretation and their application.
(5) I will always strive to achieve maximum team work with my fellow officials.
(6) I will be loyal to my fellow officials and never knowingly promote criticism of them.
(7) I will be in good physical condition.
8) I will control the players effectively by being courteous and considerate without sacrificing fairness.
(9) I will do my utmost to assist my fellow officials to better themselves and their work.
(10) I will not make statements about any games except to clarify an interpretation of the Laws of the Game.
(11) I will not discriminate against nor take undue advantage of any individual group on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
(12) I consider it a privilege to be a part of the U.S. Soccer Federation and my actions will reflect credit upon that organization and its affiliates.

I gather from the terseness of your question you feel some referees have misbehaved. Let me say that I do not for one second believe there has been any "cheating" by any referee at the World Cup. Nor do I believe any have broken any code of Ethics. But, being ethical and competent are not the same thing. A poor referee that is honest, hard working, in shape, fair and performing to the best of his ability is still a poor referee.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Roman
Referee Contarino has quoted the USSF Code of ethics which is replicated throughtout the soccer world. I can quote the FAI's similar code but there is little point in that.
The game has to have a referee. He / she makes what he/she believes is the correct decision. Yes times they will get it wrong and make a mistake. Thats part of life. Who has not made a mistake?
Always remember it's just a game.