GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY — Randall Smith, a 64-year-old former referee, has been sentenced to 12 months probation. Back in January he pleaded guilty to assault and battery charges for pushing a 16-year-old student manager during a soccer match in Grand Traverse County. The incident took place on Oct. 14 at the Keystone Soccer Complex near Traverse City.
The Michigan State Police investigated the confrontation, leading to Smith’s arrest on Oct. 28. Following the incident, the Michigan High School Athletic Association removed Smith from its roster of registered officials, ending his officiating career.
The incident began during the match when Smith tripped over the student manager, who was standing near the bench. After bumping into the manager, Smith raised his penalty flag and pushed the teenager over the bench. The Michigan State Police submitted an investigative report to the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office following the encounter. Smith was formally charged with assault and battery and was arrested two weeks after the match took place.
Smith had been a registered official with the state high school athletic body prior to the incident. His removal from the roster by the Michigan High School Athletic Association effectively ended his professional involvement with the organization.