In the vast of soccer, certain roles often go unnoticed by the general public. One such role is that of the referee assignor.

But what exactly does a referee assignor do, and why are they so crucial to the game?

Let's dive into the facts and figures provided by US Soccer and IFAB to shed light on these unsung heroes.

According to US Soccer, referee assignors are responsible for appointing referees and assistant referees to matches.

Sounds simple, right? But the intricacies of this task are manifold. Assignors must consider the experience, qualifications, and past performance of each referee. They must also factor in the nature of the match, be it a local youth game or a high-stakes professional clash.

So, what is an assignor? An assignor is an individual certified by US Soccer to appoint referees to matches. Their role is not just administrative but also involves mentoring, providing feedback, and ensuring referees have the necessary resources and support.

Now, let's talk numbers.

A study from US Soccer highlighted that in a single season, an assignor might make over 5,000 individual referee appointments. That's an average of 96 appointments per week! The sheer volume of these assignments underscores the pivotal role assignors play in ensuring matches are officiated fairly and competently.

But how does one become an assignor? US Soccer provides a clear pathway for those interested. It involves attending an assignor certification course, passing an examination, and then gaining practical experience under the mentorship of an experienced assignor. Continuous education is also a must, ensuring that assignors are always up-to-date with the latest in soccer officiating standards.

For referees, understanding how to best work with an assignor is crucial. Open communication is key. Referees should provide their availability well in advance, be open to feedback, and always be professional in their interactions. Building a good rapport with your assignor can lead to more suitable match assignments and opportunities for growth.

Another interesting stat? According to research papers backed by US Soccer, matches officiated by appropriately assigned referees see a 20% reduction in contentious decisions. This statistic alone underscores the importance of the assignor's role in the broader context of the game.

Furthermore, surveys conducted among referees revealed that consistent and thoughtful assignments play a significant role in referee retention. Referees who feel they are assigned to matches that align with their skills and growth trajectory are more likely to continue in their roles and pursue further training.

Backed by stats from US Soccer and principles from IFAB, it's clear that assignors are not just schedulers; they are crucial cogs in the machinery of soccer, ensuring the game's integrity, fairness, and continued growth. The next time you watch a match, remember the meticulous planning and consideration that went into selecting that referee, and tip your hat to the assignor – the pivotal player you've never heard of.

Before you go, curious to learn how much referees run?  You might be surprised.