Why should you become an AYSO Referee?  It's rewarding, you learn about this beautiful game, and working with kids is great fun!  What better way to learn about the game of soccer, for both yourself and your children, than to take a class on the Laws of the Game.  You can become a better coach, better supportive soccer parent, and better soccer fan if you really understand the game. 

Also, WE NEED YOU!!  We can’t have games without referees.  Lots of referees.  We need a Referee (Center Referee) and 2 Assistant Referees (Linesmen) for each game.  The referee’s job is to be the official in charge of the game. The Referee is the independent arbiter and manager of the game. The Referee's authority extends to everyone at the field, including players, substitutes, team officials, spectators, and even assistant referees.

The referee is responsible for enforcing the Laws of the Game in such a way as to keep the game safe, fair, and fun for everyone: the players, the coaches, the spectators and themselves. The Referee interferes with the game as little as possible, avoiding making calls for doubtful and trifling offenses. Referees only make calls for offenses they are sure occurred.

We want our kids to continue to play, and they keep playing as long as it is fun.  AYSO Referee training is designed to aid the Referee to interpret the Laws of the Game in an age appropriate manner to help ensure a Fun, Fair, and Safe environment for all involved

HOW DO I BECOME A REFEREE?

Step-by-step instructions for signing up can be found in the attached PDF. How to Sign up for Referee Courses and visiting the  Referee Training Classes  on the Referee training page,

Step 1 – Register as an AYSO Volunteer

All referees must register as volunteers annually. Youth volunteers (ages 10-17) will need a parent or guardian to complete the on-line volunteer process for them. Register on-line as a Volunteer with AYSO18 at www.ayso18.org


Step 2 – Complete Safe Haven and Concussion Awareness

All Referees must complete:
   - AYSO Safe Haven (Course MT02)
   - Concussion Awareness (AYSO CDC Concussion Awareness)

Both courses are available through AYSOU. AYSOU courses can be accessed through the following instructions How to Sign up for Referee Courses.


Step 3 – Attend a Regional Referee Course

New Referees must complete either the Regional Referee Course (for 10U) or the 8U Official Course (for 8U).

Some Local Class options are listed on the Referee Training Classes page & additional classes are available through AYSOU . AYSOU courses can be accessed through the following instructions How to Sign up for Referee Courses.

More Information for AYSO Region 18 Referees is available on our REFEREES page.