Don't need the badge - all the dads take it in turn to regularly do the linesman job at matches if one of the other dads isn't already doing it ....the coach of each team referees usually - it's under 12s
In addition for the team I ....
- Wheel the goals out and help set them up - probably 20 minutes job each training and home match at the begining and end
- Mark out the pitch for all pre home games . 30 minute job night before game
- I coordinate the home pitch liaison with schools (ongoing in year and lengthy)
- Collect and drop offs in my own car for kids who can't get a lift (usually two at least a week)
- Take orders for all kit, order the personalisation, sort money and deliveries ...(Hours and hours that takes through preseason)
-Step in as assistant coach when the coach/ assistant away ...in reality I am not a soccer man so it's setting up cones etc
Overall - I do plenty to support / volunteer in the amateur game my kids are involved in ....I practice what I preach
And yes if the main coach/assistant were to leave I strongly suspect I would need to take the badges and do that myself ....and I would unflinchingly
On a separate note I watch amateur RL down here and there regularly isnt always a Linesmen.....I have never once moaned about it......partly as I am aware I would be a very good candidate to do it myself if I wasn't committed to my kids activities
I have stated on here before when I retire I fully intend to get my RL badges and ref at the weekends (truthfully)