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World Cup Officials Take Charge of NASL Game

April 25, 2014 - North American Soccer League (NASL) News Release


NEW YORK (April 24, 2014) - Every player's dream is to represent his country at the FIFA World Cup. The same is true of the officials who take charge of games and view the prestigious tournament held every four years as the pinnacle of their career.

On Saturday when the unbeaten New York Cosmos defend top spot in the North American Soccer League standings against the San Antonio Scorpions, the officiating crew that takes charge at Hofstra University is one that will be Brazil-bound this summer.

Referee Mark Geiger and assistant referees Sean Hurd and Joe Fletcher will all travel to Brazil in June to officiate in the FIFA World Cup as the representatives of CONCACAF.

Geiger, who has officiated at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, the Olympic Games and the FIFA Club World Club, started refereeing like many youngsters, to earn a few extra dollars. That paid hobby soon led to him making his professional debut in 2004, and as a member of the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) in the United States, the 39-year-old regularly takes charge of domestic games.

The New Jersey native, who is also a high school mathematics teacher, recalled the moment when he learned he was selected as one of 25 referees heading to the World Cup.

"The email came at 2:24 a.m.," Geiger told the Associated Press. "I woke up to an email and a couple of text messages from friends. An outstanding experience just to wake up and see that email."

Geiger will be joined by Hurd and Fletcher on Saturday at Hofstra University and again when the trio heads to Brazil this summer. He is conscious of constantly being under the microscope as they officiate games.

"We're reminded of how much scrutiny there is on every decision we make," added Geiger. "We need to go in there with the confidence and the physical ability to be in the right place, at the right angle to see the play properly and then have the confidence to make that decision."

The clash between the New York Cosmos and San Antonio Scorpions kicks off at 7pm ET on Saturday, March 26, and can be watched live at www.NASLLive.com.

NASL fans can watch every game by subscribing to either a 30-day pass or a season access pass at www.NASLLive.com, soccer fans can access all 135 matches during the 2014 NASL Spring and Fall Seasons.

Throughout the month of April, the NASL is offering a 10-day free trial to enjoy the weekly broadcasts as the league's 10 teams battle to reach the postseason and compete in The Championship for the coveted Soccer Bowl trophy. This is the last weekend to participate in this free trial.

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North American Soccer League Stories from April 25, 2014


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.


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