CFC Spotlight - Daniel and Madelyn
CFC's Youth Referee Academy is designed to give youth a safe pathway along the officiating side of soccer. The academy pushes youth to gain and build workplace skills, leadership skills and communication skills via officiating. Currently, CFC has over 50 USSF certified referees, most of whom are actively officiating our Fall Juniors Recreational Program and several OYSA matches across the valley.
We sat down with Daniel and Madelyn, two youth officials, to hear a little of their story and why they are a part of our Youth Referee Academy.
DANIEL C.
"I get to ref with my friends, provide for my family, and help kids grow."
Daniel is a player on CFC's 2008B White team. He has been with the Youth Referee Academy since it first began in August of 2020.
"I joined the academy because I like helping out with kids. I get to ref with my friends, which is a lot of fun."
Our referee academy gives back to its officials by not only paying them, but having an option for part of their paycheck to help pay off club fees. Daniel said that this piece has been really valuable to him and his family because he can not only help pay bills, but his family now doesn't have to spend money on him.
"I've been able to buy myself new cleats and keeper gloves by being a part of the Youth Referee Academy - I'm really thankful."
MADELYN D.
"I really like the Youth Referee Academy - it's a great community."
MADELYN D --
"I really like the Youth Referee Academy - it's a great community."
Maddie is a former CFC player who came back to the club for the purpose of officiating. Having a friend already involved in the program, she felt encouraged to become a certified ref this season.
"I joined to make a little extra money and to keep in touch with soccer. I wanted to be a part of kids developing their skills."
One thing that Maddie values about the academy is its "community" feel. She stated that everyone involved with the program has been not only nice, but flexible and encouraging. As a current West Salem High School student, she has felt supported by the academy and its ability to work with her schedule.
"Jose [Youth Referee Academy Director] always works with my schedule - very flexible. I really like it here. It's just a great community."
The CFC Youth Referee Academy allows youth officials in the greater Salem area an opportunity to build an interest in the officiating side of soccer. Officials can gain leadership skills, work experience, as well as High School credit while staying involved with the game they love. To learn more about the Youth Referee Academy and/or get involved, click here.
To support CFC and its development of better soccer, better people, and a stronger community, click here.
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