Why Do Referees Get Medals? [2023 Guide]

Ever seen a referee pick up a medal?

Well turns out that there is a secret meaning to this.

That means they get awarded these, along with players.

On some occasions.

So let’s get into this, and learn more about this.

Do World Cup Referees Get Medals?

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What better place to start than the world’s biggest footballing event?

That is of course the Fifa World Cup championships.

Here below is a short and concise table, that shows how medals are given out:

Category	Medal
World Cup Winners	Yes
Final Match Referees	Yes
Other Referees	No

As you can see from the 36 main referees.

Only one of those and his team will get the honor of receiving gold medals for refereeing the final match.

Unfortunately those other referees, do not get any models.

But ay at least they get to say that they were able to say they refereed at a World Cup.

As not many can boast that, within the footballing world.

To add to that, to even get into that final cut of referees who can manage a game at this prestigious tournament.

Not only do you need to be a very good referee but also FIFA-authorized.

This is another reason why referees are given medals for doing the final.

As its recognizing the skill that it took to reach the highest level.

However, acknowledging the efforts of the referees who take charge of a Fifa World Cup final was never always a thing.

In fact, it wasn’t until Fifa introduced it that they started getting the recognition they deserved with a high-value piece of gold around their necks.

The latest edition saw Polish referee Szymon Marciniak and his team of officials get gold medals, who played a significant hand in how Argentina vs France 2022 Final played out.

Thanks to how it was refereed will go down as one of the best finals of all time.

 

Why Do Referees Get Gold Medals?

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Now as I was alluding to above, referees getting gold medals, is all about recognizing their impact on a sporting event.

Below highlights six reasons why referees gain gold medals:

1. Recognition of their skill: To referee in a final they have had to work hard to reach a high level of officiating
2. Contribution to sport: A referee will help the game run smoothly, so it’s paying thanks for helping the show to come together.
3. Good sportsmanship: Respecting the job that they have done, and that all those who participate in the final get awarded a medal.
4. Pressure management: Being a referee isn’t for the faint-hearted, so this is a recognition of this.
5. Performance: Gold medals are a sign of professionalism, competency, and fairness by the referees.
6. Inspiration: If a referee is seen to be getting a medal, then this could influence younger generations to take up refereeing. After all, they are needed!

 

What Do You Gain From Being A Referee?

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Just like with any job.

You will learn a lot.

This goes for referees too.

You will understand more about the sport, and each of the rules within the game.

Not just that but a referee must control a game.

Especially when you have two feisty sides coming together.

So leader skills are therefore important and are learned naturally as you play.

With the nature of the game, and how referees are called upon to make decisions.

Often within seconds of an incident occurring.

You, therefore, become a better decision-maker, the more you referee.

Just as you get better at football, the more you play.

Aside from this, it provides personal growth and forces you to build resilience and confidence.

As I will say again, being a ref isn’t easy, with so many challenges thrown at you during each 90-minute period.

It’s these experiences that not only help you to get better at the role.

But build you as a person.

So just know that if you are looking to get into refereeing yourself.

That this can be a rewarding and challenging job.

Its also a great way to attain a medal, on top of the footballing route,