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way to honor its fallen member. With more than 2,000 players, it employs about 105 referees every year, about 80 of whom are teenagers like Silva.

“They use it as a moneymaker. A lot of them play soccer,” Gossett explains. “We’re always looking for more kid referees.”

Every April, the association reviews the work of these young referees, looking for those who inspire players, conduct themselves with grace under pressure and serve as good stewards of the program. Nominations are made, from which the board elects the Female Referee of the Year and the Male Referee of the Year.

“It’s mostly to let them know what a good job they’re doing,” Gossett says. “But we do give the winners $100.”

The winning names also are submitted to the North Texas Soccer Association, which presents its own Referee of the Year award. Last year, the LHSA renamed one of those honors the Lake Highlands Austin Silva Young Male Referee of the Year, honoring the teen who embodied what the award was all about. It will be presented for the first time this month under the new name, to another kid who doubles as a role model on the field.

Gossett says referees must be certified, a process that includes eight hours of classroom training followed by a test. But it can open doors, he says. “When you’re certified, you can work anywhere in Texas,” he adds. “I had guys start in high school, and they do it through college to make money.”

The association is wrapping up its spring season but will be back in September, when Silva’s brother, Charlie, will be on the field as a referee.