Mentoring, quite simply means a one to one relationship supporting the development of another referee. The concept is as broad as necessary and as inclusive as possible.
People progressing to more senior levels of the game are often “taken under the wing” of someone who is officiating or who has officiated at higher rungs on the “refereeing ladder”. There is even a formal scheme for each referee at the highest level in this country to have his or her own “coach” to provide such assistance.
Newly qualified referees invariably find the same mentoring scheme particularly helpful.
The mentoring relationship is ongoing and is not limited to the mentor occasionally watching the person mentored. It is important that mentors should be available to assist the mentee whenever the need arises.
Who can be a Mentor?
Absolutely anyone – nobody knows all that there is to know! Arguably absolutely every active referee should have a mentor. There is therefore nothing wrong with someone being a mentor and having a mentor at the same time: it is all a question of more experienced people assisting people with less experience.
What is involved?
Basically it is just about being there for the referee and offering support and guidance. From time to time you will need to watch your mentee in action and be able to offer constructive advice on the things they do well and their areas for development. You will also need to be a “sounding board” for the mentee to allow them to discuss their performance, or any other issues, with you. Whilst Mentors are not expected to watch every game the Mentee undertakes it is important that mentors are available to assist whenever the need arises. This is can be done by telephone or by meeting up from time to time, perhaps at functions organised by a local referees’ society (to find details of your local society clicking here).
What are the benefits to me becoming a Mentor?
There is no better feeling than to see a referee you have helped and encouraged progress to either the higher levels of the game or to officiate on a league cup final. That feeling of pride and achievement is priceless.
During our refereeing careers we have all had times when we could have benefited from such a scheme and now you have the opportunity to help others make their dreams come true. Whether you are an active referee or someone coming to the end of their active career why not give something back to the game we all love by becoming involved.
If you would like more information in becoming a Mentor or being Mentored then please let the Mentor Coordinator know by clicking here.