In the past, beginner courses often filled up quickly, so you’ve adjusted the application process. How does it work now?
Previously, course registration worked on a “first-come, first-served” basis, meaning that whoever signed up first usually got a spot. Now we’ve introduced a points system for assigning spots. This system takes into account how many referees the club is required to provide, how many it already has, how many are in training, how many course spots were filled within the past year, and whether there is a shortage. Based on the points, we create a ranking list according to which the spots are allocated. This creates a balance between smaller and larger clubs and is significantly fairer than in the past. However, the reality is that we’ll also need to offer more training courses in the future if demand continues to grow at this rate. But that’s only possible if we can organize these courses in a way that covers our costs—which they currently do not.
It’s also important for the clubs to have an overview of which of their members are currently training to become referees.
That’s right; club representatives have frequently brought this up with us in the past, and we’ve addressed it. With a club account on the Berlin Referee Portal, clubs can now see all of their referees and candidates at a glance. The portal automatically notifies registered clubs about new registrations by their members as well as the current status of their training.
Your term as a member of the BFV Executive Committee runs until 2029. What do you hope to accomplish by then, and what changes would you like to see for Berlin soccer?
I hope that we all come together more—both clubs and referees—and that we can once again foster a greater sense of community—and I believe we’re on the right track. I also hope to further improve the quality on the fields, among other things through mandatory participation in training groups and improvements to the courses for newcomers. I’d also like to establish a culture of learning from mistakes that motivates everyone to learn and grow individually. Finally, I hope we can improve the conditions on and around the field for our referees to make officiating more appealing and keep newcomers in the sport longer. Our goal is to actively support referees and recruit as many as possible to officiate on a long-term basis. This will also include transparent and practical minimum match requirements in the future.
What qualities are important for the role of a referee?
A certain sense of fairness doesn’t hurt. It also helps to be decisive and communicative. A basic understanding of soccer and a certain level of fitness are also part of it. Ultimately, though, it has to be fun, of course.
Why do you enjoy it?
You get to be involved with soccer, stay in shape, and—especially as a teenager—you even earn a little pocket money for it—I personally think that’s fantastic. Plus, you learn a tremendous amount that you can also use in your career: teamwork, strong communication skills, and the ability to make decisions. Being a referee really does always look good on your resume. Plus, you get to meet a lot of great people—the referees themselves, but also the people at the clubs, the players, coaches, and officials. It’s a big community.
Become a referee now!
View the current organizational chart of the Referee Committee
