FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Positive Referee Coalition Celebrates Milestone in USPL Division 2 Final
Hudson Valley Soccer Referee Association Implements Soccer Green Card with Resounding Success
Hudson Valley, NY – 7/24/2024 – The Positive Referee Coalition is thrilled to announce a historic moment in the implementation of the Soccer Green Card during the USPL Division 2 Final between NY Phoenix and FC Merchant. This monumental event, held in front of an audience of approximately 300 attendees, marked the first time the initiative was utilized in Eastern New York (ENY), showcasing the growing interest and success of the Positive Referee Coalition’s efforts.
Center Referee Brian Baer, along with Nick and Mike as Assistant Referees from the Hudson Valley Soccer Referee Association (HVSRA) expertly managed the game, demonstrating the impact of the Positive Referee principles. The game concluded with a 3-1 victory for NY Phoenix, and it was notable not only for the action on the field but also for the groundbreaking use of the Soccer Green Card.
Two cards were issued during the match: one yellow card for unsporting behavior and one green card for positive sporting behavior. The recipient of the Soccer Green Card/Good Sport Award was K. Delice of NY Phoenix, recognized for his exemplary conduct and impressive performance, scoring three goals and serving as a positive influence both on and off the field.
“This was a significant moment for us,” said Brian Baer of HVSRA. “Implementing the Positive Referee Coalition initiative paid dividends. The reaction from players, coaches, and spectators was overwhelmingly positive, and it reinforced the value of promoting good sportsmanship.”
The Positive Referee Coalition’s Soccer Green Card aims to reward and encourage positive behavior in soccer, fostering a more respectful and supportive environment for referees, players, and spectators. The initiative has been gaining traction, with more leagues and referees expressing interest in adopting these practices.
“The success of the Soccer Green Card in the USPL Division 2 Final is a testament to the power of positive reinforcement in sports,” said Will Bradwell, representative of the Positive Referee Coalition. “We believe that recognizing good sportsmanship can transform the culture of soccer, making it more enjoyable for everyone involved.”
The Positive Referee Coalition invites leagues, referees, and soccer enthusiasts to learn more about the Soccer Green Card and the Good Sport Award. Those interested in implementing these initiatives in their own programs can visit the Positive Referee Coalition’s website for guidelines and support.
About the Positive Referee Coalition
The Positive Referee Coalition is dedicated to promoting respect, fairness, and sportsmanship in soccer through innovative referee training and recognition programs. The Soccer Green Card and Good Sport Award are key initiatives aimed at creating a positive and supportive environment for all participants in the sport.