Referees in AYSO are volunteers. They give their time and talents freely to ensure that every player has a fun, fair and safe AYSO experience. AYSO referees frequently have their own children in the program. But because it can be such an enjoyable and rewarding experience, it’s also common for these volunteers to continue long after their own children have moved on from AYSO.

Referees should be trained to the level that they will be refereeing.  Referees need to complete the Safe Haven, CDC Concussion Awareness and AYSO Referee Training.  There is a variety of training for referees. Assistant Referee minimum age is 12, Regional Referee minimum age is 12, Intermediate referee minimum age is 14, Advanced Referee minimum age is 16 and National Referee minimum age is 18.

These training’s are to be completed prior to season starting.  Referees are to have theirs completed prior to them refereeing.  Contact our Referee Administrator  (Contact information is on Board page)

• Always remember that the game is for the players. Player safety and fair play come first.
• Study and learn the Laws of the Game and understand the "spirit" of the Laws. Help fellow referees do the same.
• Encourage and enforce the AYSO philosophies of "Everyone Plays," "Positive Coaching" and "Good Sportsmanship."
• Respect other referees' decisions, and do not publicly criticize another official.
• Wear the proper uniform and keep it in good condition.
• Maintain good physical condition so you can keep up with the action.
• Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches and parents.
• Honor accepted game assignments. In an emergency, find a replacement.
• Support good sportsmanship with a kind word to players, coaches and parents of both teams when deserved.
• Always be fair and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest. Decisions based on personal bias are dishonest and unacceptable.