Controlling a Crowd: The Psychology of Refereeing - Hardcover

Sullivan, Dr Pamela; Wicks, Kyle

Hardcover

ISBN 13: 9798905941153

Publisher: E-Robotic Press, 2026

Synopsis

Controlling a Crowd: The Psychology of Refereeing explores the mental side of soccer through the eyes of a referee before, during, and after a match. By explaining key psychology concepts such as attention, communication, and growth mindset, this nonfiction book reveals what it takes to become a successful referee. Along the way, aspiring players, coaches, and fans will gain valuable insights into the mental skills that help officials make decisions, handle pressure, and stay focused on the field.

About this title

About the Authors

Dr. Pamela Sullivan is a professor of literacy, a fan of libraries, and a bookworm living in central Virginia. Her academic work focuses on shared reading before formal schooling. Her lifelong goal is to help every child fall in love with reading.

Kyle Wicks has been a soccer referee since 2006, officiating matches at the youth, high school, collegiate, and semi-professional levels. Throughout his career, he has worked high school championship matches and collegiate national tournaments, experiences that deepened his appreciation for the game and the responsibility that comes with every whistle. Like many young referees, Kyle first became an official to earn extra money. Over time, however, officiating became much more than a job. It became a way to give back to the soccer community that had provided him with countless opportunities to grow as both a player and a referee. Soccer has taken Kyle across the United States and abroad to Austria, where he gained a greater appreciation for the sport's ability to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures. Kyle wrote Controlling a Crowd: The Psychology of Refereeing to help young readers understand what referees think about before, during, and after a match. He hopes readers discover that officiating is about much more than knowing the rules. It requires staying calm under pressure, making fair decisions, treating others with respect, and learning from every game. Whether you dream of becoming a referee, player, coach, or simply enjoy cheering from the sidelines, Kyle hopes this book helps you see the game from a new perspective. After all, every great referee starts with the courage to blow that very first whistle.

Edition details

• Publisher: E-Robotic Press
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 13: 9798905941153
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 24