Q: Who are the referees?

A: All volunteers, they are us. Many referees start when their children are young and move up with them. Referee training is provided for all age groups and levels. In the younger age groups, referees are mostly parents who are new at it. Each team in the Under-7 through Under-10 age groups must have one and preferably two certified referees. Under-11 and Under-12 teams must have one certified referee.

Q: Why can't I yell at the referee?

A: Ragging and questioning the referees is not part of AYSO soccer. Remember that this is a game for kids. The kids learn what good sportsmanship looks like from how the adults act as much as what they say. Referees, coaches, all other volunteer parents and friends are out there to see that the game is safe, fair, and fun for the kids.

Q: What training is provided for referees?

A: There are several kinds of clinics: the introductory course for U7/U8/U9 referees; the basic Regional Referee certification course; upgrade clinics; refresher clinics; and Safe Haven clinics. Safe Haven training, which covers safety and child and volunteer protection, is an essential part of the training for AYSO referees.

Q: When are the referee clinics?

A: Clinics will be given in August and September. As soon as it becomes available every year, the full clinic schedule is posted on the referee page.

Q: Do I have to buy my own uniform?

A: No. Once you complete your training, you will be provided with a free uniform (including jersey, shorts, and socks), badge, whistle, and a copy of the most current edition of the Laws of the Game .

Q: Can I referee my own child's games?

A: Absolutely. You can be the center referee in your own child's games up through games in the U10 division. In U12 through U19, you can be one of the assistant referees for your child's games.

Q: What if I have a problem at a game with a coach or a spectator?

A: Report to the Referee Coordinator for the appropriate age group all incidents in which a coach or a spectator behaves in a way that makes a game something other than a safe, positive, enjoyable, growth experience for the children.

Q: Do I really want to do this?

A: Yes!

Q: Who will answer my other questions?

A: The best person to start with is the Referee Administrator, but all members of the regional referee staff are happy to answer your questions.

For information on how you can become an AYSO certified referee, please contact our AYSO Regional Referee Administrator.

Contact Referee Administrator or Asst. Referee Administrator