For Ted Unkel, the path to Major League Soccer officiating wasn’t exactly a straight line. Originally studying law, he found himself pulled onto the soccer field, whistle in hand, refereeing local youth matches. What started as a side pursuit quickly became a passion — one that would define much of his professional life.
“It’s not just about knowing the rules,” Unkel explained. “It’s about understanding the flow, the feel of the game.” That intuitive sense, combined with relentless training, propelled him up the officiating ranks toward the highest levels of American soccer.
Becoming an MLS referee wasn’t easy. The process demanded near-perfect physical fitness, mastery of the rulebook, and the ability to withstand constant scrutiny from assessors, coaches, and fans alike. Unkel described needing “thick skin” just to survive, much less thrive.
When he finally broke into MLS, Unkel quickly made a name for himself as a referee who valued communication just as much as authority. Rather than relying purely on rigid enforcement, he emphasized *preventative officiating* — setting expectations early, managing personalities, and defusing conflicts before they could ignite.
“You’re not just enforcing rules,” he said. “You’re managing human beings under high pressure.” That philosophy made him a steadying presence in chaotic matches, whether playoff showdowns or heated rivalry games.
Of course, officiating at that level came with its share of challenges. Human error was inevitable, and criticism — from fans, coaches, even players — was part of the daily reality. Mental toughness, Unkel emphasized, became his most valuable asset. The introduction of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) brought greater accuracy but also added new layers of pressure and second-guessing.
Still, there were highlights that made the journey worthwhile: officiating playoff matches, being part of landmark moments for the sport’s growth in the U.S., and even the occasional sideline banter that reminded him not to take everything too seriously.
Reflecting on his career, Unkel is quick to stress gratitude. Refereeing didn’t just teach him how to handle a match — it shaped him as a person, instilling resilience, leadership, and emotional intelligence.
Today, after stepping away from active MLS officiating, Unkel stays close to the game by mentoring younger referees. Helping the next generation navigate the same path he once walked brings its own rewards.
His advice to aspiring officials? Build your mental toughness early. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities. Stay physically and mentally sharp. And above all, remember that being a referee isn’t just about the laws of the game — it’s about understanding people.
“You’re part of the fabric of the match,” he said. “If you do it right, most people won’t even notice you were there. But you’ll know. And that’s enough.”
