Referee of the Month: Jordan Whittier
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 March 2025 Referee of the Month is Jordan Whittier.
Questions & Answers:
Q: Current Referee Level & Highest level attained:
A: Provincial.
Q: When did you begin, and what motivated you to start refereeing?
A: I took my entry level in 2007. This (like a lot of referees) was my first job so I liked the idea of being able to make some income while getting my exercise as well! I also wanted to see the game from a different perspective and get the opportunity to meet more people in the soccer community.
Q: What has been your most enjoyable game/memory of your referee career?
A: I have been fortunate enough to referee many games at levels I would have never reached as a player. Games in particular that stand out to me are a Cavalry FC versus Foothills FC exhibition at Spruce Meadows (the stadium seating was being installed while this game occurred!), the UWS National Championship in 2019 and being fortunate enough to attend 3 national competitions between soccer and futsal.
Jordan officiating an AMSL match.
Q: What do you love most about refereeing?
A: When I started refereeing at 14, I had no idea that I would meet so many mentors, instructors, assessors and fellow referees that would influence my life in such a positive way. Being able to work with different people in each game has led to many new friends as well as being able to share stories about a game I am very passionate about. Refereeing has also helped me step out of my comfort zone and use a lot of the "people" skills required to succeed in life outside of soccer.
Q: When did you first become a CDSRA member and what encouraged you to join?
A: I first became a CDSRA member in 2018 when I decided that I wanted to further my skills as a referee. I knew that the education available as well as the community itself would be essential in helping me become the best referee I could be. I was also fortunate enough to be elected to the CDSRA Board of Directors in 2020 where I have been privileged to help this organization grow into where it is today.
Jordan at ARC 2025
Q: What advice would you give to somebody just starting out refereeing?
A: My advice to those starting out is to reach out to as many people as you can. There are many amazing individuals who want to help you succeed in refereeing and it gives you ample opportunity to learn from others. Secondly, remember that referees are human. Mistakes are going to happen - having the courage to come back and do the next game will only help you in the long run.
Q: What do you do outside of refereeing and what are some of your interests?
A: Outside of refereeing, I have a passion for science. I really enjoy biology and helping others learn about the subject. I also enjoy a day trip to the Rockies and spending time with friends and family. In addition, I hope to travel more in the coming years to see what sights our world has to offer!