Importance of Referee Uniforms

The importance of referee uniforms cannot be under-estimated. However, people often wonder why referees have to wear proper uniforms in order to officiate soccer matches. This is particularly true in organisations where referees are volunteering their time or in recreational soccer. One such volunteer organisation is AYSO.

The Referee Team

The referee team typically consists of three referees: there is the referee and usually two assistant referees. Higher level, professional competitions may have up to five referees.

Of course modern day professional soccer and football also now has Video Assistant Referees commonly known as the VAR.

Reasons for Referee Uniforms

Proper referee attire is essential for the following reasons: –

1. Referee teams are a fundamental part of soccer at all levels of the sport from recreational to professional games. As such, they need to be recognised on the field and the uniform serves this purpose. Referee uniforms clearly separates the officials from the players.
2. Referees are in a position of authority for the duration of a match. Hence their appearance and uniformity of the game officials plays a huge role in appearing professional. Uniforms also help gain credibility and command respect from the coaches, players, and spectators.
3. Uniforms creates visual appearance of a team. This helps the referee team manage games more effectively.
4. Proper uniforms (with Regional or higher level badges) show players, coaches, and spectators that referees have completed the appropriate level of training and are in a position to officiate a match in a safe and fair manner.