I probably should not prolong this discussion, but I would like to weigh in with one point concerning the proposed changes related to referees.
Before doing so, I would like to say that I completely agree with virtually all of the points made in this thread. There is a great need for more refs (the two-man system is very difficult, especially at the varsity level), better training for refs and more stringent qualification of refs.
That said, not all coaches are qualified to review or assess refs. I do not want to name coaches or schools, but I ref in a district that has a number of coaches that have no background in soccer. For the most part, they are dedicated and good individuals, but they have no grasp of the concept of "advantage" or "handball" (as it has become popularly refered to).
My contribution to this discussion would be to add that the review by coaches be limited to coaches that achieve a certain level of experience or expertise.
Last edited by lfc; 05/19/07 01:46 PM.