En del av spelet : En studie av fotbollsdomarnas tillvaro i Gästrikland

Sammanfattning: There is a clear difference between the way football players and leaders regard the role of the referee, compared to the way the refereeing body looks at it. The refereeing body regard themselves as fundamental for the existence of the sport, while the other mentioned parties merely see them as functional justice makers. This view places the referees outside the field of football. This establishes a football culture, which is conflicted when it comes to the role of the referees on the field. The conflict comes to its edge in youth football, where the referees are under severe pressure. The only way for the referees to handle this pressure is through experience and respect, which is essential for creation of a well working referring role. Thus, a change in the football culture is necessary in order to include the referees in the football family and change the general conception of the referees’ role and function.