The referee enforces the rules of the game and ensures that every match is played in accordance with governing laws and regulations. Given the dynamic nature of their jobs, attitude and skills are not enough. One of the key aspects that would affect a referee’s performance are the things he wears for day to day activities – collectively, soccer referee uniforms.
For a new referee, finding the right uniform and equipment, or affording them, is quite difficult. Good thing, a number of sporting goods companies have manufactured economy packages or starter kits for referees. A starter kit contains all the apparels a beginner referee needs to get started.
What’s in a starter kit
A starter kit is a collection of different equipments and gears necessary for a referee to get his job done. They are priced cheaper than when the items are bought separately. They come in various piece varieties – 3-piece, 5-piece, 10-piece – depending on the referee’s needs. Here are some of the items included in a new ref kit:
- Jersey – It comes in different color varieties: black, gold, blue, red. It can be short or long sleeved and is made from 100% polyester. Sizes range from XS-XXL.
- Shorts – Mostly black in color, either plain or with small designs. Also made from 100% polyester material, and size ranges of XS to XXL.
- Neck or wrist lanyard – To keep the whistle in place
- Data/card wallet – For safekeeping of the red and yellow cards, and the record of the game statistics
- Whistle – Used to call out fouls and other stoppages of the game. The pealess variety is a much popular choice because of its loud sound and high pitch which can be heard over all the spectators’ noise.
- Red and yellow cards – Penalty cards used to convey referee signals and decisions.
- Flags – Carried by assistant referees or linesmen used to let the referee know of a violation.
- Velcro patch – For easy placement of the referee’s badge
- Socks – Usually black in color, either a plain shade or with small details.
Some starter kits include extra jerseys or socks, depending on the piece variety. Other brands also include an equipment bag that is usually black and made from a waterproof nylon material. Other add-ons are: game pads, hand pump, flip coin, and a handbook for new referees.
Price value
The cheapest price is for a 3-piece variety which is around $35 to $45. Other approximate price ranges: 10-piece – $50 to $65, 12- or 13-piece – around $60 to $70, and 16-piece – $95 to $100.
The referee manages and ultimately controls the game. For the beginner referee, starting it all out is not as easy as it may seem, especially when choosing the perfect gears. But with the affordable prices and wide range of items offered by soccer referee uniforms starter kits, the novice soccer referee would surely excel in his field, opening doors for greater opportunities in his career.
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- The Modern Innovations to Soccer Referee Uniforms
- The Basic Soccer Referee Uniforms
- Soccer Referee Uniforms: Wearing The Right Soccer Referee Uniform and Stand- Out
- The Importance of Soccer Referee Equipment to the Game’s Success
- Custom Made Soccer Uniforms And Jerseys