Referee of the Month: Barry Berman
The CDSRA Referee of the Month features referees of different ages, levels, and backgrounds to reflect the diversity in our referee community and our association. Our November 2024 Referee of the Month is Barry Berman.
Questions & Answers:
Q: Current Referee Level & Highest level attained:
A: District
Q: When did you begin, and what motivated you to start refereeing?
A: Starting in Edmonton when my sons were significantly younger and playing, I refereed for 5 years at all levels. It was my way of contributing back to the sport that gave opportunity not only to my children but many others, some of whom needed assistance to meet obligations that continue to exist.
I chose the picture of me with my son who coaches and granddaughter who plays as it indicates a generational and family involvement in soccer because I believe soccer at this level is very much a family sport. Parents and grandparents are active with their kids and grandkids through to their mid teems. We as referees owe a duty to them as well as the game, to be our very best, be aware and respect their contributions.
Q: What do you love most about refereeing?
A: I enjoy the challenge though I am rapidly reaching my best before date. I have had the privilege of working with a significant number of referees and mentors whose patience and knowhow has been of great value and I hope I have learned from them.
Q: When did you first become a CDSRA member and what encouraged you to join?
A: I joined CDSRA almost immediately following my qualification and attended the RED sessions which are and have been a great boon to the profession. It seems to me that it, along with at least the IRT program, should be strongly recommended for all referees regardless of their status. Perhaps consideration should be had to setting up annual continuing education seminars similar to other professional organizations wherein members are required to attend as a precondition to continuing in their roles. Senior referee contributions would provide great insight for all referees which in turn improve our roles and the game.
Having senior referees at the RED and IRT sessions enhances the experience and knowledge base even further. The work and effort put in by Alex in particular and his cohort is nothing but stupendous.
Q: What advice would you give to somebody just starting out refereeing?
A: For someone starting out, I would recommend they participate fully in the RED, IRT and where applicable the CARD programs. When they do go onto the pitch, be aware they are not alone out there but they can ask and get support from more experienced referees. Be aware of your authority and know the rules of the game. New referees face challenges from all sides; Speak loudly and be firm. Ask for mentors and support as often as possible. And remember at all times that you are human and making mistakes is part of the growing up process.
Q: What do you do outside of refereeing and what are some of your interests?
A: Coming from a business legal background and being semi retired. I continue to act in consulting roles where needed. I spend time reading – really continuing my education Doing so continues to challenge me.
One goal which I would like to pursue in soccer is to the role of mentor and even to the role of a support person – being assigned to games where referees might need a support person on the sidelines to whom the referee can consult if and when they feel the need. This is because over the years I have seen innumerable instances of abuse towards officials, some of which may have been earned, It is a role that might be able to enhance officiating and help improve the game.