Top Tips for New Referees (And What You Need to Get Started)

At A&H International, we know that beginning your journey as a referee is both exciting and a little overwhelming. The right mindset and the right kit will set you up for success.

Here are our top five tips for new referees, plus a quick guide to the essential gear you’ll need:

1. Confidence is Key

Players, coaches, and spectators feed off your body language. Stay calm, stand tall, and make decisions firmly. Even if you’re unsure sometimes (it happens!), confidence can defuse doubt and reduce dissent.

2. Know the Laws (and Keep Learning)

It sounds obvious, but really knowing the Laws of the Game - not just the basics. Laws are constantly evolving, too, so regular refreshers are essential. Stay updated with changes.

Top Tip: we send a free Laws of the Game quiz every Sunday by email - subscribe to our newsletter using the box to the right of the above image. 

3. Communicate Clearly

Use your whistle, cards, and signals with purpose. Good communication is about being proactive with players and using your presence to manage the game before issues escalate.

4. Fitness Matters

You don’t have to be a marathon runner, but referees cover a lot of ground, often more than players. Build your fitness gradually, focusing on short sprints and recovery. A fit referee is always in a better position to make the right decision.

5. Learn from Every Game

Every match, even the toughest ones, is an opportunity to improve. Reflect after each game: What went well? What would you do differently? Refereeing is a journey - every experience makes you better.

When you look the part, you feel the part. So, What Should You Have in Your Bag?

Here’s a simple checklist;

• Referee Kit: Shirt, shorts, socks. The A&H Referee Kit Bundle is the best quality on the market for just £39.99. 

• Two Whistles: Just in case there’s another game being played on the next pitch. We recommend a Fox 40 Classic, then something with a slightly different tone like the Fox 40 Sonik Blast or the Fox 40 Epik.

• Cards and Notebook: You’ll need a yellow and red card, along with a notebook and match sheet pads. Don’t forget a pen! We've made one quick, easy bundle with all your essentials that you'll need on day one - The A&H Referee Starter Pack at a heavily reduced price. 

• Two Watches: Always two. One might die halfway through. We recommend the Limit Starter Referee Watch.

• Flags: If you have no assistants we recommend the A&H Referee Flag Set, low cost and durable for those club managers who will no doubt chuck them on the ground. If you have League appointed AR’s we recommend the Touchline Flag Set - the industries best. You'll thank us later. 

• Boots: and also trainers if you’re on a 3G pitch

• Coin: One for the toss. A 10p coin will do, or treat yourself to one you won't lose like the A&H Metal Flip Coin. 

• Warm-up Jacket and Tracksuit: You’ll be standing around before the game and after — don’t get cold.

• Water and Snacks: Especially if you’ve got a couple of games back-to-back. Don't forget nutritional snacks like these to keep you going. 

You can view our dedicated "New Referees" page by clicking here.

At A&H International, we’re proud to support referees at every level with high-quality kit, equipment, and advice. Whether you’re gearing up for your first match or your hundredth, we’ve got everything you need to look professional, feel confident, and focus on the game.

Good luck out there - and remember, every match you do, you’re getting better.