I spent last week refereeing at the AYSO National Games, in Irvine, California. I just happen to be a soccer referee, and had the opportunity to officiate at the tournament. The National Games are held every two years, at different locations around the country. This year, it was in California, so I took the opportunity to join in on the fun. It was really hot (average high 80s) and humid as heck. The heat on the turf fields (fake grass) got so hot, the rubber pellets melted into the plastic of my turf shoes!
Still, it’s always inspiring to be a part of such events. I hope you find inspiration in your week as well.
As a referee? Not for me. Perhaps for some of the excellent younger referees who choose that path. I just enjoy the organization, and being a part of the joy of competition.
Gotcha. No, AYSO stands for “American Youth Soccer Organization” and therefore the AYSO National Games are a youth tournament. While many AYSO players have gone on to professional careers, and even the US National team (AYSO alumni include players such as Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz for the women, Landon Donovan for the men, as a few examples), AYSO is focused on youth soccer. The World Cup is for adults playing for their respective National teams…
No worries. The whole point of online discussion communities like this is to learn new things, meet people you’d never come across otherwise. It’s all good. Hope y’all have a great weekend!
I spent last week refereeing at the AYSO National Games, in Irvine, California. I just happen to be a soccer referee, and had the opportunity to officiate at the tournament. The National Games are held every two years, at different locations around the country. This year, it was in California, so I took the opportunity to join in on the fun. It was really hot (average high 80s) and humid as heck. The heat on the turf fields (fake grass) got so hot, the rubber pellets melted into the plastic of my turf shoes!
Still, it’s always inspiring to be a part of such events. I hope you find inspiration in your week as well.
Cheers, all.
Does that lead into the World Cup?
As a referee? Not for me. Perhaps for some of the excellent younger referees who choose that path. I just enjoy the organization, and being a part of the joy of competition.
I meant is that a part of the tournament to get to the World Cup or is it a completely separate event?
Gotcha. No, AYSO stands for “American Youth Soccer Organization” and therefore the AYSO National Games are a youth tournament. While many AYSO players have gone on to professional careers, and even the US National team (AYSO alumni include players such as Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz for the women, Landon Donovan for the men, as a few examples), AYSO is focused on youth soccer. The World Cup is for adults playing for their respective National teams…
Got it. Clearly I am not a soccer expert.
No worries. The whole point of online discussion communities like this is to learn new things, meet people you’d never come across otherwise. It’s all good. Hope y’all have a great weekend!