H.S. student earns Eastern N.Y. Young Ref of the Year

W.T. Clarke High School student Matthew Schwartz was honored as the Eastern New York 2011 Young Male Referee of the Year at a ceremony in December.

Schwartz, 17, started playing soccer at three years old and began goalkeeping at six. “I was the first one to step up to play,” he said. Goalkeeper was the only player who stayed in the entire game and he wanted to be part of the action.

Over the years, Schwartz continued to challenge himself. He commonly plays on two soccer teams and has been on the Clarke varsity soccer team since his sophomore year.

However, he was only 13 years old when he began as a referee assistant at Long Island Junior Soccer League Games. “I was extremely nervous,” he said about the first time he took to the field. He helped call the game for eight-year-olds.

The high school junior acquired confidence on the field. He said it was a challenge to gain parents’ respect, but added, “If you can control the game early and assert yourself, you’ll be fine after that.” Schwartz has also made friends and gained leadership qualities while playing and refereeing games.

“Matthew has shown character beyond his years on the field with enthusiasm for advancing through the ranks,” said State Youth Referee Administrator Ray Wolfe.

“[He] is available to referee as much as possible and truly understands what refereeing is all about,” added Nanci Apostolides, a member of the Long Island Soccer Referees Association.

While Schwartz does receive a monetary incentive for refereeing most games, he did volunteer at a competitive match for 19-year-old boys who played in front of college scouts. “I understand the importance of getting exposed,” he said.

Schwartz said he is hoping to play soccer in college, but said academics come first. He does want to referee while earning a degree and is considering a major in aviation or aerospace engineering.

Currently, Schwartz practices three times per week with the Albertson Academy in the East New York Youth Soccer Association Premier League, referees games on the weekend and takes Advanced Placement courses at school. He also kicks for the Clarke football team in the fall.

Members in the Eastern New York Soccer Association and the Eastern New York State Senior Soccer Association chose Schwartz as the 2011 Young Male Referee of the Year.