TASK is always looking for new referees. This is a great job for young soccer players to get a better and deeper understanding of the game.
The International Football Associate Board (or IFAB) controls and publishes the Laws of the Game.
Who can be a referee? – almost anyone you just need to meet the following criteria.
- Be at least 13 years old
- Those who are 13 are only allowed to referee younger recreational games (grade 9)
- Those 14 and older can be considered for all games (grade 8)
- Pass the written examination with at least a 75% score
What is required to become a referee?
As required by our charter all of the referees we use must be certified by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) at a grade 8 or 9 level.
If you are new to refereeing you will need to:
- Pass the New Referee Course (16 hours, half online, half in class)
- Cost is between $25 – $35 depending on area
- Register with the USSF ($40 – usually paid as part of registering for the class)
- Purchase a referee uniform (socks, shorts, and at least 1 shirt, Red/Yellow card set, whistle, digital wrist watch with stop watch )
- It is preferred that you buy at least 2 shirts that are different colors.
- If you want to work higher level games you will also need
- Data Wallet, scorepad, sideline flag set, pen or pencil
If you are an existing referee you will need to:
- Pass the Recertification Course (8 hours, half online, half in class)
- Cost is about the same as new referee
- Register with the USSF (same fee as above)
- New uniforms if you’ve outgrown old ones.
Sounds like a lot of money – what will I make?
The money you make depends on how much you referee. How much you referee depends on how much availability you set in “Gameofficials” (the referee assignment software) and how good you do when you referee. Better referees will get offered more games.
The current fee structure for games is located on the East Central soccer districts website.
Sounds good – how do I sign up?
Visit the US Soccer Learning Center website and search for a Referee Course. When you find one that fits your schedule, go through the forms and sign up. Follow the guides to make yourself available for games and have fun.
What makes a good referee?
This can be a difficult job, but most people are understanding that young referees are still learning. There are some things you can do to be a good referee.
- Study and know the “Laws of the Game”
- Show up early for all your scheduled games
- When blowing your whistle – blow it loudly!
- Especially for younger kids – explain the call
- If you can, explain it loudly enough for parents and coaches to hear.
- Be fair – don’t favor one side over another
- You are going to make mistakes, just work your best to minimize them
- Learn from experienced referees.