Diego Arzola Ruiz
Calexico
Summary
Dynamic soccer referee with Cal South, experienced in maintaining game integrity and prioritizing player safety through clear, confident communication and strong leadership. Proven ability to manage high-stress and emotionally charged situations with professionalism, sound judgment, and emotional control. Through law enforcement coursework, has developed discipline, ethical decision-making, situational awareness, and a strong understanding of authority, accountability, and public safety. Additionally, experience coaching youth athletes has strengthened leadership, mentorship, patience, and instructional skills, emphasizing teamwork, respect, and personal development. Demonstrates strong critical thinking and conflict management abilities while enforcing rules consistently and impartially. Brings a community-focused mindset that balances authority with approachability to ensure a safe, fair, and positive environment for all participants.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Soccer Referee
Calsouth
04.2025 - Current
Education
Associate of Science - Administration of Justice
Imperial Valley College
Imperial, CA06-2027
High School Diploma -
Calexico High School
Calexico, CA06-2025
Skills
- Communicated clearly with players, coaches, and officials to maintain control and safety
- Demonstrated strong leadership, integrity, and conflict-management skills
- Managed high-stress situations calmly while maintaining authority and professionalism
- Ensured player safety and game integrity by monitoring conduct and enforcing disciplinary actions consistently
- Leadership & mentorship – guiding, motivating, and setting examples
- Patience – working with different learning speeds and personalities
- Teaching & instruction – breaking down skills in simple terms
- Responsibility & reliability – being someone others depend on
- Motivation & encouragement – building confidence in others
- Discipline & accountability – following rules, procedures, and standards
- Critical thinking & decision-making – assessing situations quickly and logically
- Ethics & integrity – understanding responsibility, fairness, and consequences
- Communication skills – clear verbal commands and report-style writing
- Teamwork & leadership – working in units and learning chain of command
Accomplishments
One of my key accomplishments is advancing as a soccer referee to officiate higher-level and highly competitive matches, demonstrating continued growth and recognition within the officiating community. I was selected to work at an ECNL (Elite Club National League) tournament, where I was called up to officiate alongside experienced and professional referees, reflecting a high level of trust in my abilities and judgment. I have consistently been assigned to advanced-level matches, highlighting confidence in my performance, decision-making, and professionalism. Through these opportunities, I demonstrated strong teamwork, adaptability, and leadership, while performing confidently in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. I consistently prioritized player safety, enforced rules impartially, and upheld game integrity, further reinforcing my reputation as a reliable and composed official.
Hobbies and Interests
- Learning new techniques and expanding my skills.
- Volunteer Work
- Hands on work
Extracurricular Activities
Criminal Justice Club – High School
- Participated in the High School Criminal Justice Academy, gaining hands-on experience with law enforcement practices, public safety, and criminal justice procedures.
- Assisted with football patrols, helping maintain safety and order during school events.
- Participated in Police Christmas Giving, distributing gifts to children and managing a $200 budget provided by the local police department.
- Received mentorship from Border Patrol, police officers, and Customs agents, learning about careers in law enforcement, procedures, and professional conduct.
- Completed CPR training and certification, demonstrating preparedness and commitment to safety.
- Collaborated with local law enforcement in community service projects, strengthening teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills.
- Gained experience in planning and executing activities while developing strong communication, problem-solving, and professional skills applicable to public safety careers.
Languages
- English
- Spanish
Volunteer work
I volunteer as a soccer coach, dedicating my time to mentoring youth players and supporting their athletic and personal development. In this role, I assist with planning and leading structured training sessions focused on skill development, game awareness, fitness, and teamwork. I provide individual feedback to help players improve confidence, discipline, and decision-making on and off the field. I also emphasize sportsmanship, respect, and accountability, creating a positive and inclusive environment for players of all skill levels. Through this volunteer work, I have strengthened my leadership, communication, and mentorship abilities while contributing meaningfully to the growth of young athletes and the soccer community.
Timeline
Soccer Referee
Calsouth
04.2025 - Current
Associate of Science - Administration of Justice
Imperial Valley College
High School Diploma -
Calexico High School