Matthew Nemeth of State College: Academics and Sports

DENVER, CO, March 04, 2014 (Press-News.org) 21-year-old Matthew Nemeth of State College played varsity soccer when he was in high school, and remembers it as one of the best periods of his life. "To be honest," he acknowledges, "when I reflect on my time in high school, the one thing that sticks out to me most was my time spent on the soccer team."

As an undergraduate, Matthew Nemeth of State College has formed two student organizations, and served on both in an administrative capacity. But school always comes first, and this highly motivated young man is due to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in 2014. "I wanted to focus as much on my studies as I could," Matthew Nemeth of State College admits.

Still, not having soccer in his life would leave a huge hole, and he didn't think he could bear that. "It's not that I've stopped loving the sport - nothing could be further from the truth," he says. So how has Matthew Nemeth of State College managed to keep active in soccer? "I've turned to officiating the sport, and I couldn't be happier!"

Being a soccer referee is a major time commitment, though not nearly as time consuming as being on a team. There is a lot of responsibility involved. Referees must look the part, of course, by wearing the proper uniform and displaying an official badge. Referees must inspect the field before the game begins, and interpret all rules correctly once it is in progress.

Becoming a certified soccer referee takes a lot of work. Matthew Nemeth of State College draws on his experience to advise others who are interested in becoming a soccer ref. To earn their certification, would-be referees must attend entry-level training clinics, which Matthew Nemeth of State College says usually last about eight hours. After completing the clinic there is a required certification test, which is based on international soccer rules and regulations. "Don't worry over much about the test," Matthew Nemeth of State College says. "If you simply do your homework and make sure that you study the rulebook - which isn't too thick - you'll do absolutely fine on the test itself."

There are different levels of soccer referees, says Matthew Nemeth of State College, beginning with Level 9. After one year, those who want to advance can go for their Level 8 certification, which requires additional study - what are known as bridge classes. But for Matthew Nemeth of State College it has absolutely been worth it. "Becoming a referee is very rewarding for those who love the game of soccer," he says. "Especially for those of us who can no longer dedicate six days a week of our time to play the sport. It's easy to stay in shape to be a referee, and then you can pass your knowledge and love of the sport onto others. Not to mention, you get paid!"

About: Matthew Nemeth of State College is a lifelong soccer fan who also advocates for Parkinson's disease.