Refs Need Love Too David Gerson
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- Sports
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An honest perspective from the 3rd team on the pitch... the referees. Through humor, analysis and education, we are slowly changing how people view referees and officials in all sports. We care and have a love for the game as much as any player or coach. Sometimes even more. Youth soccer (proper football) is a multi-billion $ industry in the US. Tremendous money is spent on players, competitions, travel etc., but almost nothing spent on developing the next generation of referees. I hope that this Podcast inspires, educates and humanizes the next generation of referees for their own development and appreciation from the players, coaches and spectators they need to work alongside.
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Inside the Ref's Mind: Unspoken Truths and a Call for Respect in Youth Sports
Ever wondered what goes through the mind of a referee that most people have no clue about? From pre-match jitters to the intricacies of making those split-second calls on the pitch, I share my real-life experiences of the hard truths of what goes into officiating games. We'll unpack the nuanced nature of calling fouls and dive into why experience and context are game-changers for making the right calls.But that's not all. We also tackle the often unspoken financial motivations that pull...
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The Crucial Referee Whistle: Special Episode as a Guest on the "Over the Ball" Podcast
This is a special, guest star appearance for me on the "Over the Ball" podcast which is sponsored by Soccer America. It was a fun conversation and I hope I represented the 3rd team well. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's felt the surge of emotion at a contentious offside call or debated a referee's split-second decision. We delve into the intricacies of VAR technology and its diverse applications across leagues like the MLS and Premier League, offering a rare glimpse into th...
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Defying Age on the Field: Fitness, Nutrition, and Referee Longevity Beyond 40
Join the ranks of those refusing to let age dictate their fitness regime as personal training expert Brad Williams and I, explore the intricacies of staying in top shape as a referee beyond 40. With Brad's insights on combating sarcopenia and tweaking fat storage, you'll be equipped to maintain that crucial burst of speed when it matters most on the pitch. As I approach my own half-century mark, I'll share the trials and triumphs of juggling the whistle with targeted, intelligent traini...
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Stop Blaming the Ref!: Victim Mentality vs Success Mindset
Have you ever left a youth soccer game feeling furious at the referee? It's a familiar scene: parents and fans seething on the sidelines, convinced the referee has 'robbed' their kids of victory. I'm David Gerson, and in this episode, I confront this blame game head-on, championing personal responsibility over misguided finger-pointing. Referees aren't the puppet masters of the game's outcome; it's the players and coaches who carve their destiny on the pitch. I share my vexation with the slew...
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Chronicles of a High School Soccer Referee and Why I LOVE it!
Have you ever stood in the center of a storm, making split-second decisions that could turn the tide? Welcome to my world, David Gerson, where the whistle's blast is my thunder. This episode takes you behind the scenes of my state cup refereeing adventures, where I own up to my blunders and share the invaluable advice tossed my way. I've been polishing my craft with tips from the pros, like honing my whistle's melody and mastering strategic placement during set pieces. It's a journey of growt...
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Navigating Nightmares and Boardrooms: Reflections on Management, Communication, and Presence on the Pitch
Ever woken up drenched in sweat from a nightmare that felt too real? I'm David Gerson, and that's exactly how my day started before a state cup game, with a dream that left me shirtless and unprepared facing the assessor's daunting presence. Tune in as I recount this chilling referee nightmare and its roots in the true pressures of officiating. But it's not all about the stress; join me as I translate the rigorous discipline and communication prowess required on the soccer field to invaluable...
Customer Reviews
Family
We feel close to those we ref with in our region, but this podcast and its associated social media brings all of us together.
Admirably helpful podcast
Excellent job David! Your podcast is a tremendously helpful tool we can all use to get better at reffing such an amazing game. Keep up the great work and I look forward to you next episode!
Excellent work
Came across your platform on Instagram. I love the podcast as much as I appreciate the videos. Keep up the good work. Positive role models matter. This should be mandatory for all refs, players, coaches, and spectators to listen to.