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In
Arkansas,
we offer several types of assessments for the referee community. At most
of the tournaments, we conduct developmental assessments to help the
referees with their on field development as referees. During these
assessments, we may watch part or all of a match and provide the referee
with feedback after that match. The assessor may comment on positioning,
foul recognition and field coverage to name a few. These, as all
assessments, are to help the referee understand the mechanics and
dynamics of the soccer match as viewed by a trained observer. We offer
solutions to problems that you may encounter during this, or future
matches. These assessments are provided as no cost to the referee.
Another
assessment is the upgrade assessment. During this type, the assessor will
concentrate on one match only. The assessor will pay exacting attention
to the referee looking to upgrade in rank. More detailed feedback will
come during the assessor’s post game debriefing with the referee crew
from that match. This assessment is paid for by the referee requesting
the assessment. This is a requirement by the US Soccer Federation for
those referees wishing to advance in their referee careers.
The
assessment program also performs maintenance assessments. These
assessments are performed annually for all Grade 7 referees and Grade 6
and 5 State Referees as part of the recertification process. The
purpose of the maintenance assessment is to make sure the referee has not
developed any “bad” habits and continues to work toward improvement in
their grade. These assessments are done on specific games with
requirements depending on grade. Again, detailed feedback can be expected
from this assessment. This assessment is a requirement set forth by the
US Soccer Federation. The referee pays the required assessment fee
for this service.
One
thing to understand is that the assessor is scheduled to the match by the
State Director of Assessments with the guidance from the State Referee
Administrator and the State Youth Referee Administrator. Anyone wanting
an upgrade assessment HAS to go through these people to get it done.
Some
points to remember; an assessment doesn’t hurt a bit, in fact, it may
actually help you and if you want to improve, request an assessment at
the next tournament you attend.
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