For the Good of the Game: Modern Techniques and Practical Wisdom for Today's Soccer Referee

This is, without a doubt, the most comprehensive book about officiating now in print; with apologies to Izaak Walton, it's "The Compleat Referee."If you're just beginning as a referee, study and learn the Laws of the Game. Develop a relationship with a mentor whom you trust. And read this book. More than once. Despite the authors' significant credentials as FIFA and FA referees, the newest official will find their style enlightening and eminently readable. The book covers the entire gamut of refereeing from pre-match preparation to effectively dealing with every imaginable - and unimaginable! - situation on the pitch. Personal anecdotes from the authors' considerable experience appear throughout each chapter and help clearly illustrate each point.For more experienced referees, this book delves repeatedly into the very personal subject of player management - the mind game. The authors will repeatedly challenge you to evaluate each match on its own and ensure you're employing the right skills to effectively 'orchestrate' it.I had the pleasure of attending a day-long presentation by Mr. Evans and Mr. Bellion and can tell you that these gents are every bit as entertaining and informative in their book as they are in person. Their good humor and passion for the game comes through loud and clear. You won't be disappointed!

This book is the best book I have read so far about being a referee. This is not a book to read if you are trying to learn the rules of soccer themselves. This book is full of techniques and practical advice for use in actually officiating a soccer match. This is my first year as a referee, after several years as a coach of youth teams and playing in adult leagues. This book was of enormous help to me and made my "rookie" year so much easier. I concure with the other reviewers. Many of them, from the titles they list on the reviews, are experienced referees. Their coments about this book influenced me to get the book and I am very glad I did. If you are looking to be a better soccer referee, this is a must read.

I fully agree with the other reviewers. Simply stated this is the best book available for anyone truly interested in learning about refereeing soccer. Very readable, with many wonderful anecdotes about the game. Great use of examples... covers every aspect of refereeing soccer. Much, much more than just a synopsis of The Laws. It digs deeper to provide a true understanding of what is behind the Laws, and how one can improve performance. This book has helped me immensely in my developement as a State level soccer referee. It is absolutely required reading for any soccer referee who is truly commited to this avocation / vocation. Buy this book -- I guarantee 100% that you will not be disappointed. Read it once, and then again -each time you will learn a bit more, something a little different that you missed the first time around. This book is presently the "bible" for all soccer referees. Bob Evans and Ed Bellion are to be commended for taking the time to write this jewel for all soccer referees. Ignore this one at your own expense...

This book is superior to any of the dozens of books I have read on officiating soccer. Bob Evans and Ed Bellion have co-authored an excellent resource for all referees--from the first-year recreational referee, to the veteran adult amateur hack, to the seasoned professional and international referee.I have read this book several times over, and each time through it I learn something new or gain a fresh perspective on how to handle a challenging situation differently.The authors demonstrate a broad and thorough understanding of the laws and spirit of the game through their writing. Diagrams in the book illustrate field positioning for the referee to consider so they can avoid mistakes and make proper decisions. Practical examples help the referee understand how to better manage players at any level, and ultimately how to best serve the game.Every referee should add "For the Good of the Game" to their reference library.--Steve Piercy, USSF State Referee, Referee Instructor, Referee Assessor

Bob Evans and Ed Bellion have made an important contribution to the lexicon of books on The Game. Over the years that I have been involved in soccer both as an official and as a National Director of Assessment for the U.S. Soccer Federation, I have read uncounted books and attended an immense amount of lectures, instruction, and training sessions on officiating the game. I only wish this book had been available when I was blowing the whistle! These guys know and love the game. They provide a new frame for officials who wish to rise to the top of their profession as well as for the Sunday referee calling a youth or amateur game. The book will be of value, also, to coaches, players, and fans of the game, providing them a unique insight into the game from the officials' points of view. For officials, this is a MUST read!Don Creswell National Assessor Former National Director of Assessment U.S. Soccer Federation