Who are these people?
Youth soccer referees are individuals who in return for a nominal per-game fee, take the reponsibility for the safe conduct of youth soccer matches.  Referees are specially trained and licensed by Florida State Referees, the organization that governs the training, licensing and assessment of soccer referees.  A licensed referee is qualified to apply the FIFA Laws of the Game (as modified by the league in accordance with the age of the players), and are licensed to referee a particular level of game in accordance with their ’Grade’.  Most recreational soccer youth referees are ’Grade 7’ or ’Grade 8’.  Referee licenses must be renewed each year, and require the successful completion of a written test as part of the annual renewal.

What is the primary job of the REFEREE?
...To oversee the game day conduct of soccer matches.
...To check that playing field conditions and equipment are suitable for play.
...To verify that player equipment is not hazardous.
...To check-in coaches and players and verify eligibility before play begins.
...To enforce the "FIFA Laws of the Game" (per league and age group).
...To be ultimately responsible for player safety.

REFEREES are not responsible for fans or spectators!
The behavior of fans and spectators (typically parents) is the responsibility of the coach for the team with whom the fan or spectator is affiliated.  Coaches are held accountable for the behavior of their team’s supporters.  When the behavior of the fans or spectators negatively impacts the game - the referee will normally speak to the coach.  The referee may ask the coach to have offending spectators or fans removed from the vicinity of the game.  If the coach cannot influence fan or spectator behavior to the satisfaction of the referee, the referee may elect to end the competition.