HOW to BECOME a SOCCER REFEREE – helpful links
Thank you for your interest in becoming a soccer refreree. Your willingness to give back to the sport is much appreciated.
There are a number of paths for you to follow dependent upon your experience level, understanding of the rules, comfort level, and many other factors only you can gauge and understand
Generally in the Cincinnati area and in most locations there are 3 types of Soccer Referee – SAY, USSF, and High School. Entry at the varied levels require different types of testing and allow you to referee varied types of games as indicated below.
SAY or recreational soccer involves the starting leagues for beginning youth. Certification is conducted by each local orginaization and the testing/on field training will vary from sight to sight. It is a great way to get involved if you want a more relaxed atmosphere to learn the game and the rules. Go to Referee to see how to sign up!!
USSF (United States Soccer Federation) involves certifcation to any club or higher level games in the United States. This training involves both on line training/testing and a one-time on field session. These games are more competetive so better suited for someone who has watched/understands the game and is ready to challenge their knowledge in some real action!! You can make up to $400 a weekend at a tournament doing 4-5 games on a Saturday/Sunday!! Please sign up at www.MWSOA.com or www.OSSRC.com
High School Soccer can involve refereeing at levels from Middle School to Junior Varsity and Varsity games for both girls and boys. At the Varsity level, the level of competion requires a thorough knowledge of the game and a good fitness level. Many folks move from USSF to HS as they gain experience or older players/parents who want to stay involved start here. Please check www.MWSOA.com for the info to sign-up!!
Soccer refereeing provides the ability to give back to the game, makes some money, meet and engage with a wide variety of individuals, and build skills that could benefit you in all aspects of live – now and in the future. Leadership, collaboration, addressing difficult situations, etc. are just a small array of skills that you will have the ability to grow.
Below is a better explanation to organizations that can help you become a SAY and/or USSF and/or High School referee with links:
SAY Soccer- An organization primarily focused on recreational soccer. SAY Referees are certified via the individual leagues/area. You can find a SAY Area near you via this link Referee and going to the HOME tab. Scroll to the bottom to find the SAY locator. You will find the various SAY Areas near you and information on how to contact them.
MWSOA – Midwest Soccer Officials Association – is an association primarily focused on Soccer Referees in the Cincinnati area. The MWSOA website has a link on the home page to more information on becoming a Soccer Referee for recreational, youth competitive, and High School soccer programs. www.MWSOA.com
OSSRC – Ohio South Soccer Referee Committee – is a committee which governs soccer referees, assignors, assessors, etc. related to Competitive and Recreational Soccer in the State of Ohio. Ohio was split into two “states” in the past (Ohio North and Ohio South). While the associations have merged into Ohio Soccer Association – the referee committees have not completely merged yet. The OSSRC website has links on the home page for First Time Referees (USSF Referees) and Recertifying Referees. www.OSSRC.com
USSF -United States Soccer Federation - is the official governing body for soccer in the United States. Founded in 1913, it oversees amateur and professional soccer, including national teams (USMNT, USWNT), youth leagues, and referee/coaching licensing. It is affiliated with FIFA. Go to www.ussoccer.com/refereeing