Unruly parents, players and coaches are driving a referee shortage, do you think sports officials are treated unfairly?
Is bad behavior at youth sporting events a problem at your school or in your community? The article you’re about to read claims that, for years, “rowdy parents, coaches and players have created a toxic environment” in youth sports, particularly for referees. To what degree, if at all, do you agree with that statement? Have you witnessed this type of behavior at your youth sporting events? Have you noticed or heard about a shortage of referees where you live?
Have you ever been a referee? Would you want to be? Do you think most game officials are treated with respect by players, coaches and spectators at your games or matches?
The article contains some possible reasons that there are fewer referees today than there were a few years ago. Which reason best explains the situation?
What do you think needs to happen to fix the referee shortage? Do you think any of the potential solutions mentioned in the article could work? Which ones, and why?
Where do you think the line should be between showing respect for game officials and giving them constructive feedback? Should those present always defer to the authority of referees, even if they make mistakes?
Have you ever been a referee? Would you want to be? Do you think most game officials are treated with respect by players, coaches and spectators at your games or matches?
The article contains some possible reasons that there are fewer referees today than there were a few years ago. Which reason best explains the situation?
What do you think needs to happen to fix the referee shortage? Do you think any of the potential solutions mentioned in the article could work? Which ones, and why?
Where do you think the line should be between showing respect for game officials and giving them constructive feedback? Should those present always defer to the authority of referees, even if they make mistakes?
