Q: If I can only referee a few weekends in the fall, then is it worth it?
A: Absolutely! Every game you can do gives kids an opportunity to play soccer.
Q: Can I be a referee?
A: Yes! The laws of soccer are easy to learn and AYSO provides training and mentoring. Every year 30-40 new referees take the field and are comfortable and competent by the end of their first game.
Q: How does the scheduling work?
A: You request games based on your schedule and availability. Lots of business travel? Do a couple games on the weekend you are in town. Schedule goes up Monday and requests are filled as they come in. You will only be assigned games you requested.
Q: Can youth referee AYSO games?
A: Yes definitely, we love having youth referees. Youth referees should be 12 years old to officiate 10U games and 9 or 10 years old to officiate 7U and 8U respectively. As AYSO is a volunteer organization many groups recognize youth referee hours for volunteer status.
Q: I have taken the referee class before, do I need to take it again?
A: If you have been previously certified as an AYSO Regional Referee, no. If you have been previously certified as an AYSO 8U referee, you will need to take the Regional Referee course to officiate 10U and higher.
Q: Can I referee my own child's games?
A: Yes, provided you call the match fairly. In fact, at the 8U and 10U levels, the referee pool is mostly parents and older siblings of the players. It's a great way to enjoy soccer with your child.
Q: What do I do with the match reports (game cards)?
A: Match reports are an easy way to communicate with the referee administration team and the board. We review the reports every weekend and if there are any issues, we do our best to take appropriate action.
If you have any issues (both good and bad), please note them on the card so that we can take the appropriate action. Some examples of things to note:
- Field issues (paint lines, torn nets, etc.)
- Coach or parent issues (language, behaviour)
- Failure to follow substitution regulations
- Injuries - please note name of player, time, and nature of injury
- Cautions and Send-Offs
At the end of each match, hand your completed match reports to the Referee of the following match. The last referee on the field each day should drop the stack of completed cards in the box at Burton Park.