Interview Summary – Samantha Emmi (Referee)

How She Started

• Sam began playing soccer at age 5–6 and later wanted to experience the sport from the referee’s side. Whistles Up_ Interview with Sam…

• She also wanted to make extra money and eventually fell in love with refereeing.

Mentorship

• Early support came from assigner John Barna.

• He connected her with Magda (State Cup assigner), who provided feedback, events, and mentorship opportunities.

• Mentoring helped build her confidence and skill early on.

Challenges as a Female Referee

• More challenges occur in boys’ games (especially U15+). Coaches and players sometimes assume she doesn’t know what she’s doing.

• She handles pushback through strong communication with her referee crew and by confidently addressing players and coaches.

• Male coaches tend to doubt female referees more than female coaches do.

Differences in Treatment

• Boys’ teams tend to argue and complain more; girls get mouthy but move on quickly.

• Parents are usually ignored—she tunes them out.

Why She Stays in Refereeing

• Keeps her involved in the game after college, stays in shape, and enjoys giving back.

• She likes seeing players develop over the years.

Youth vs. High School Differences

• Some youth players can play at elite levels; others stay local for fun.

• High school players often complain more and think everything’s a foul.

Advice to Her Younger Referee Self

• Be confident and take control of every game.

• Know the laws of the game, communicate clearly, and don’t let coaches or players intimidate you.

• Set the tone early.