The CDSRA Member of the Month features referees of different ages, levels, and backgrounds to reflect the diversity in our referee community and our association. Our November 2023 Member of the Month is Brad Farrell.

Questions & Answers:

Q: Current Referee Level & Highest level attained:

A: I am currently a district level referee.

Q: When did you begin, and what motivated you to start refereeing? 
A: I became a referee in 2018.  I had been volunteering as an assisstant referee for my sons’ games and they said that while I was better than the other parents, they wanted me to take the referee course to become better.

Q: What has been your most enjoyable game/memory of your referee career?

A: My most enjoyable moments are when I recieve sincere appreciation from the team players when they comment:  ‘you’re the best ref we’ve ever had!’

Q: What do you love most about refereeing? 
A: The opportunity to work with players, coaches, spectators and parent ARs to improve their skill and their knowledge of the Laws of the Game.

Q: When did you first become a CDSRA member and what encouraged you to join? 
A: I joined the CDSRA in 2021 on Laurie Darville’s encouragement to take advantage of the RED sessions and to improve my skills as a referee.

Q: What advice would you give to somebody just starting out refereeing? 
A: Ask questions and tuck in your shirt.  Also, ensure you look and act like the professional you are no matter the age group or level.

Q: What do you do outside of refereeing and what are some of your interests? 
A: I am also a slow-pitch umpire and enjoy spending time with my family.