On this episode I have a conversation with Chris Rivett, Director of Communications for PRO Referees, the organization that provides referees for a number of professional soccer leagues in North America.In this episode, we go behind the scenes of professional soccer officiating with Chris Rivet, the Manager of Communications and External Relations for PRO Referees—the organization responsible for providing referees for professional leagues across North America.

Our conversation dives deep into the world of refereeing, covering:

🔹 The Structure of PRO Referees – How the organization operates, from different referee tiers to the support staff, including coaches, analysts, and sports performance specialists.

🔹 Referee Training & Development – The rigorous training camps, ongoing coaching, and the emphasis on teamwork among officials.

🔹 Public & Media Relations – The challenges of communicating about refereeing, addressing misconceptions, and educating fans on the complexities of the job.

🔹 Diversity & Inclusion – The rise of women referees and the broader efforts to promote diversity in the profession.

🔹 The Future of Refereeing – The role of technology, the evolution of the game, and what’s next for officiating in North America.

Chris also shares his personal journey, including his career path and his experience moving from England to the U.S.

This episode offers a fascinating inside look at the world of professional referees—highlighting the dedication, expertise, and behind-the-scenes efforts that keep the game fair and flowing.

🎧 Tune in now to gain a new appreciation for the officials who help make soccer possible!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sidestorysports.substack.com