General Training Information
AYSO offers unrivaled comprehensive training for referees. Because the training is focused on the kids, referee training is more than learning the rules of soccer - it's a multi-dimensional experience. The Basic Referee courses, which are required elements for all those individuals new to refereeing, emphasize the fundamental elements of the Laws of the Game, namely getting the match started, stopping and restarting play.
For those interested in joining the referee ranks, the required training consists of a full-day course or 2 half-day, usually evening, classes that are designed for individuals refereeing in the U10 division or higher. No advance preparation is required and all course materials will be provided on the day of the class. Refreshments will be provided, along with lunch at the all-day classes.
Completion of the Basic Referee course certifies that you may referee an AYSO soccer match; however, all of our new volunteers begin refereeing games at the U8 or U10 level. Every volunteer who acts as a center or assistant referee takes the same course, providing Region 795 with a well trained referee corps. Specialized instruction for assistant referees is included in the full-day course. In addition to our on-the-field mentoring program for new referees, we hold workshops during the regular season for those who wish to hone their skills and referee at a higher level later on.
For those experienced referees seeking to upgrade their badge to either the Intermediate or Advanced level, we encourage you to take one of the Intermediate or Advanced Referee courses that are typically offered within Area 10V. Check the Area 10V website or contact the Regional Referee Administrator for details of these course offerings or ask anyone on the Referee Staff for information about attending one of these advanced classes.
We will be coordinating our training program with other local AYSO regions within Area 10V. If our training dates are not convenient for you, many of the other regions in the area offer similar courses that may better fit your schedule. We anticipate that there will be a number of classes from mid-July to mid-September that will be available to you as alternative choices. Check the Area 10 V website for class dates, locations and registration information. These classes will also be posted on the Region 795 site as the information becomes available.
Costs
In AYSO there is no out-of-pocket cost in becoming a referee. We only ask that you invest your time to help promote a FUN, FAIR and SAFE environment for our kids. Upon completed the Basic Referee class and five (5) matches, you will be provided a complete uniform and accessory kit.
Once again, thank you to all who volunteer to be a referee. We appreciate your commitment to our kids and the AYSO program and we will do whatever we can to make this experience as enjoyable and as rewarding as possible. See you on the field!
Referees are encouraged to check the web site frequently for updates, announcements and other information.