In Loving Memory of Robert Ruta
A Steward of the Game, A Mentor for Generations, A Visionary in Soccer
Today we remember and celebrate the life of Robert Ruta, a devoted and talented soccer referee, an inspiring mentor, and a man whose passion for the game touched countless lives on and off the field in both the collegiate and US Soccer spaces.
Rob’s journey in soccer began with a whistle and a commitment — not just to enforce the rules of the game, but to uphold its spirit. With every match he officiated, Rob brought fairness, integrity, and an unwavering respect for the players, coaches, and fans. From local parks to competitive leagues, he earned a reputation as a calm, composed, and deeply knowledgeable referee — someone whose decisions were guided not by ego, but by a sincere love for the game and its rules.
Rob’s own officiating journey began in 2009, when he first stepped onto the field as a grassroots referee. His dedication and professionalism saw him rise steadily through the ranks, earning his Regional Referee badge in 2022. That same year, he expanded his impact by joining NISOA, where he quickly established himself as a respected collegiate official. He earned assignments across Divisions I, II, and III in several areas of the country, taking charge of matches with poise and authority, both as a center referee and as an assistant. In 2025, Robert achieved a long-standing goal, becoming a U.S. Soccer National Assistant Referee, a distinction reserved for our sport’s most elite officials. Along the way, he officiated at several prestigious youth events, including the Midwest Regionals and the USYS National Championships. On the adult side of the game, Rob was a regular at the USL2, NPSL and MWPL levels while entering into USL-C, USL1, and MLS Next PRO this season. His dedication and work on the amateur & semi-professional side of the game earned him an assignment at the 2024 USASA National Amateur Cup Finals. One of his proudest moments came when he was selected as one of only 30 officials nationwide for the inaugural NISOA Men's College Cup Seminar, a program aimed at developing the next generation of College Cup-caliber referees. Rob didn’t just participate, he stood out. Rob’s eagerness for growth and high-end performances ultimately earned him the NISOA 2024 Region 7 Referee of the Year Award!
But Rob’s greatest legacy lies not in the games he called, but in the people he shaped and connected with. He had an extraordinary gift for mentorship, earning his USSF Mentor license in 2022 and devoting countless hours to guiding young and aspiring referees. He believed that officiating was more than just calling fouls/offside, it was about leadership, character, and courage. Whether in pre-match briefings, post-game reviews, or quiet one-on-one conversations, Rob poured his experience into shaping the next generation. The friendships he created during his referee career were always more than surface level. Rob had a genuine love for his people and poured into them immensely with his time and energy.
“We stand with you in grief, and we honor Rob's memory with deep gratitude and respect. Rob was not only a dedicated and skilled soccer referee but also a respected member of our officiating community. His commitment to the game and his integrity on the field set a standard for all of us who had the privilege of working alongside him. His presence, leadership, and passion for the sport will be sorely missed.”
-Jude Carr, NISOA President
Robert Ruta’s presence will be deeply missed, but his influence and impact on the game and our NISOA Community is enduring. The games he officiated, the people he connected with, the people he mentored, and the dreams he pursued will continue to echo across fields and locker rooms for years to come. He gave soccer his heart, and in return, the sport and its community are forever better because of him.
Thank you, Rob, for your service, your wisdom, and your unwavering belief in others. You may have blown your final whistle and raised your last flag, but your legacy plays on.
A special thank you to Rachel Ruta, Rob’s wife for sharing him with our entire soccer community through all these years. We are keeping you and your entire family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Service Information:
VISITATIONS
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
2:00 ~ 8:00 PM
Memory Sharing at 6:30 PM
Michigan Memorial Funeral Home
SERVICES:
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Instate 11:00 AM
Mass 12:00 PM
Sacred Heart Catholic Church - Grosse Ile
Luncheon and Eulogy immediately following service at Sacred Heart Parish Hall
