In the world of futsal, a referee recently gained unexpected social media attention through a viral video capturing his on-court communication. Javier Moreno Reina, a seasoned official in the sport, viewed this unexpected spotlight with remarkable positivity.
Speaking candidly in an interview, Moreno Reina emphasized that such moments could happen to any referee. He highlighted that while this particular video gained traction, it was just one snapshot of his work, noting that referees consistently strive to maintain the right balance during matches. His primary focus remains consistent: ensuring the players remain the central focus of the game.
For Moreno Reina, refereeing futsal is far more than just enforcing rules. He described the role as a multifaceted profession involving physical preparation, psychological management, and emotional intelligence. Referees must navigate complex interactions, often communicating through subtle gestures and managing the intense dynamics of the match.
Reflecting on how he entered refereeing, Moreno Reina shared a humorous insight. “We’re essentially an army of sport lovers who became referees primarily because we weren’t great players,” he joked. He stressed the critical importance of initial experiences, warning that promising referees can be lost due to negative early encounters.
The futsal refereeing world, he explained, is highly structured and competitive. Referees undergo rigorous evaluation, including post-match scoring, theoretical examinations, and physical tests. Promotions and relegations are part of their professional ecosystem, mirroring the competitive spirit of the athletes they oversee.
Discussing recent sport modifications, Moreno Reina noted that both referees and players in Spain have been receptive to changes, positioning the country as a testing ground for innovative FIFA regulations.
The viral video, from his perspective, represented an opportunity—a chance to potentially attract more fans and humanize the often-misunderstood role of sports officials.
