Half way there!

Belated congratulations to the Ref, who passed his on-field assessment for an upgrade to Grade 7! Not only passed but received high praise from his assessor, one of the top guys in US soccer's ref community. All that's left are the upgrade class (and recert exam) and the physical fitness test, both of which the Ref should pass with ease.

I had the privilege of working one of the lines in the Ref's upgrade game, and it was clear that he was in control throughout. He demonstrated good use of the advantage call, letting play continue, while acknowledging that he saw the foul but letting the players play through. He called two penalty kicks, one a clear easy foul (hard charge from behind) and one a tougher call on handling in the penalty area. It was the right call, but not as obvious as the first. The assessor made several important suggestions for improvement, but on the whole, it was a great afternoon.