Referee Shortage Is Affecting Youth Sports by Jason Smith NCSA

“Unfortunately, recent research shows that passionate spectators may be negatively impacting youth sports leagues. Specifically, referees are quitting at an alarming rate, largely due to verbal abuse from parents and coaches. According to the Washington Post, the National Federation of State High School Associations reports that only about two out of 10 officials keep officiating after two years. Additionally, Deadspin reports that this shortage is happening during a time when Title IX policies have helped participation in youth sports double from about 4 million to about 8 million.”

“While the problem may be most prevalent in adult recreation leagues, issues have definitely become common in typical youth sports leagues. Some spectators feel that if they’ve paid league fees for their child, they’re entitled to say whatever they want during the game. Others may be frustrated that the referees officiating games are not experienced. Whatever the case, lashing out at referees sets a poor example for participating kids, negatively impacts youth sports as a whole, and can have adverse effects for young athletes down the road.”

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https://discover.sportsengineplay.com/article/referee-shortage-affecting-youth-sports