A young U7 referee asking for your feedback…
Every week I try to strike a balance between enforcement and development, I realise a more relaxed approach may be warranted at this level with respect to the laws of the game but what is the general consensus to the following issues.
Today I was the referee in an u7 game, here is a few examples;
1. Foul throw – if a player commits a foul throw should I let it go or educate the player, for example giving a second chance. Or should I award a throw to the opposition.?
2. Goal kicks. Had a few issues where the keeper did not clear the ball from the box. I tried to educate and was told ” for gods sake they’re only 6″
3. Pulling a player around the neck in the penalty area. Awarded a penalty to attacking team. Was told again that they are only 6 and I should let it go.
As a ref I try to educate these kids. Grassroots football should be fun but it should also be accurate with regards to the laws of the game in my opinion.
Am I following the rules to literally??
From a coaches/parents perspective what do you think is best??
Would love your feedback and thoughts please. ???
As a coach I would advise letting the game flow unless there are blatant rules being broken. Example deliberate handball or wrestling to the ground but speak to players to give advise to help them learn
Ideally you want the game to flow. I wouldn’t enforce the rules so stringently at this age. Let them make mistakes. Just talk to them, encourage. Let them play. Let them try.
Maybe demonstrate by doing a tips session at the end with all the players.
Not all kids can kick a ball really far, get them to take it again, get them to stand at the edge of the area, maybe just get them to roll it out.
Let them have fun, and you will do too.