To all Cal South referees,
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Toros Kibritjian, a respected former FIFA referee, coach, mentor, legend, and friend, at the age of 90 years old. The news of his departure has deeply saddened us all, and we join you in mourning the loss of a remarkable individual who has been an inspiration to many within the soccer community.
An émigré to America from Armenia, Toros Kibritjian’s contributions to the world of soccer were immense. As a FIFA referee, he upheld the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, earning the respect and admiration of players, coaches, and fans alike. His keen understanding of the game and his unwavering commitment to fair play set a benchmark for refereeing excellence.
Toros was a North American Soccer League (NASL) referee from 1968-1984, and was the referee in Pele’s final competitive match at the 1977 Soccer Bowl between the New York Cosmos and the Seattle Sounders. Toros also served as a FIFA official from 1968-1983, and had a stint with the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) in the 1980s.
In a World Cup qualifying match between El Salvador and Guatemala, Toros worked as an assistant referee with another respected U.S. referee, Gino D’Ippolito in the middle. Both men were ultimately selected to head to Moscow to work the 1980 Summer Olympics, but politics interfered, and they never traveled to the Soviet Union due to the U.S. Olympic boycott of those Games.
Beyond his achievements on the field, Toros was a dedicated coach and mentor. He generously shared his knowledge and experience, guiding and nurturing the next generation of referees. He wrote two books about his time as an official, “Quest for the Cup” and “Defining Moments in a Referee’s Life”.
His influence extended far beyond the matches he officiated, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many aspiring referees, instilling in them a passion for the game and a commitment to excellence. His work with the Cal South Referee Program saw him guiding and influencing generations of upcoming young referees.
Toros was a former USSF National Assessor Referee Instructor, John O. Best Award Winner, Eddie Pearson Award Winner, and in 2015, he was inducted into our own Cal South Hall of Fame.
Toros Kibritjian will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the kindness, wisdom, and humility he exhibited in all aspects of his life. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of knowing him.
"The first time I met Toros, I was at a high school match at La Canada HS. I was 18 years old and he was assessing my match. I was so nervous as it was one of the first times I had been evaluated. He came down at halftime and made me feel so welcomed and confident. He told me, 'Son, you will become a FIFA referee one day'. He truly motivated me and made me believe it was possible. Mr. Toros, thank you for all the years of service and thousands of lives you touched!"
During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Toros’ family, friends, and all who were touched by his presence. We hope that you find comfort in the cherished memories you have of him and in the knowledge that his contributions to football will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
