I had to get out of reffing because it was so miserable

I reffed a ton in junior high and high school: centers on rec leagues and later on kids' travel games, and lines on all levels of youth competition. Between flak from parents and coaches and the general discomfort of spending all day cold and wet at a soccer complex with no food and few bathroom facilities, I said forget it. The whole experience really soured me on soccer altogether.

I can't imagine any of it has gotten better (except maybe the facilities) in the 17 years since I hung up my cleats. If the reffing sucks, it's probably because, well, reffing sucks.