Referee Assault Leads to Tragic Death

The unthinkable happened this past Sunday June 29, 2014 when referee John Bieniewicz was assaulted by a player during a match. The assault which took place in the 55th minute of the match when John was attempting to issue an ejection for a 2nd caution. The play

er he was about to eject Bassel Abdul-Amir Saad sucker punched John in the face while he was attempting to pull his red card from his pocket. John passed away at 10:38 AM Tuesday July, 1 2014 from the injury sustained during the assault.

A Message from the SRA

Dear Friends,

On behalf of all sports officials in the State of Michigan as well as the nation, the Michigan Soccer Referee Committee (MSRC) wishes to express our condolences and support to the family of John Bieniewicz, who passed away from injuries sustained while officiating a soccer match on Sunday, June 29, 2014. “The passing of John impacts us all. Words of condolence cannot adequately convey our sorrow for this loss – but we wish to focus our energies on supporting the Bieniewicz family” says Carlos Folino, the State Referee Administrator. “The MRC and all sports officials throughout the world offer support to the Bieniewicz family as they deal with this tragic event.” The MSRC also expresses appreciation to players from both teams who administered medical assistance prior to the arrival of first responders. A memorial fund, (www.johnbieniewiczmemorial.com) has been established to support the Bieniewicz family. -

On behalf of Francisco Villarruel (SYRA) and Carlos Folino (SRA) Please stay tuned for further information as it becomes available. God Bless John Bieniewicz