VETS AS REFS
THE PROBLEM:
Southwest Florida is indicative of a growing shortage of interscholastic referees not just in Florida but the nation as well.
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THE E.D.G.E - A SOLUTION:
Veterans and veteran 1st Responders have an E.D.G.E. in becoming effective interscholastic referees:​
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EXPERIENCE
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They are used to working under pressure and have experience dealing with stressful situations.
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​DISCIPLINE
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They have a strong sense of discipline while working in a structured environment, making quick decisions, and maintaining control of a situation.
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GIVING BACK
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Becoming a referee is a way to give back to their community while using their skills and experience.
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EFFECTIVE
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They are good at de-escalating and effectively resolving conflict.
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Also, referees are independent contractors. According to the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), a Florida referee can make anywhere from $27k to $47k a year depending on the number of sports an individual officiates.
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THE PROCESS:
The Project Courage Foundation is in the process of securing funding from grants, events, sponsorships, and donations for its Vets As Refs Scholarship Fund.
The Fund will reimburse the selected applicants upon his or her successful completion of all the stages of the FHSAA certification process for ONE sport. The cap on cost amounts to $400 per person.
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CONTACT US:
If you are interested in getting updates on the 'Vets As Refs' program, click here and fill out the 'Survey/Contact' page, and we will send you periodic updates on the program's status.
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VIDEO:
The video below will give you some insights into the occupations of a team of football officials from the Spokane, WA area and their on and off-field roles. BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE AUDIO BUTTON!
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