Referee of the Month: Maureen Farrell

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 July 2025 Referee of the Month is Maureen Farrell.

Questions & Answers:

Q: Current Referee Level & Highest level attained:
A: District.

Q: When did you begin, and what motivated you to start refereeing? 
A: I began refereeing in 2018.  My husband and I were volunteer parent ARs for my sons’ teams and I was learning the Laws of the Game (LOTG) through them – they said we were better than any other parent volunteer.  In the spring of 2018, we decided to take the refereeing course to understand the Laws ourselves so we could be the best parent ARs.  Next thing I know, I’m refereeing games and getting paid!

Q: What has been your most enjoyable game/memory of your referee career?
A:  Being selected to referee a gold medal game in the Family Day Classic, in addition to becoming a referee instructor in 2024.  I love to see the folks I have taught in action and succeeding. good.

Maureen officiating with her husband and son.

Q: What do you love most about refereeing? 
A: I love being able to teach the LOTG to younger players and their coaches.

Q: When did you first become a CDSRA member and what encouraged you to join? 
A: I can’t remember the year I joined, but Rob Eberhardt convinced me it was a great way to learn more about refereeing and an opportunity to network with other referees. 

Q: What advice would you give to somebody just starting out refereeing? 
A: It takes time and there is no need to rush the learning process.  It takes time to understand how all the Laws apply to various game situations.  It takes time to learn how to deal with irate coaches/players/spectators.  It takes time to become confident in your abilities.  Be patient with yourself and learn as much as you can from your successes and your mistakes.

Q: What do you do outside of refereeing and what are some of your interests? 
A: Spending time with family and friends, reading, and traveling.