👀 Why Referee? Do you look good in yellow? Come join OUR team!
The players and coaches need YOU! It’s (probably) the most important and rewarding volunteer role in AYSO! Come join in on the community, camaraderie, exercise, and the fun of being a volunteer match official!
Every weekend, over 100 games are played in Region 20… and each one needs referees to happen. No referees, no games, no fun.
The good news? No soccer experience necessary. Just a willingness to help, learn a few simple rules, and support a positive soccer experience for our kids. We’ll train you, support you, outfit you, and cheer you on every step of the way.
Here’s Why You’ll Love It:
✅ Best seat in the house
✅ Short, simple training
✅ No soccer background needed
✅ You can referee your own child’s games (5U–12U)
✅ Flexible schedule – you pick the games that work for you
✅ It’s active, social, and genuinely fun
💡 We especially encourage moms to join in — refereeing isn’t just for dads!
👶 Starting Out in 5U–7U? Start Simple!
No calling fouls, no cards, no drama — just help the little ones get the ball in play and enjoy the game!
- Games are 20–30 minutes max
- You’ll get a yellow shirt, a whistle, and participate in a fun 45-minute Zoom orientation
- It’s more like a playdate than a soccer match — and it’s a great way to get involved early
📩 Email rra@ayso20.org to sign up for an orientation.
🧠 Want to Referee Real Matches (8U-14U)? Get Certified!
For 8U–14U, you’ll need a “Regional Referee Certification.” It’s fast and easy!
Certification Includes:
- Online modules (at your own pace)
- One in-person classroom session (classes start early August)
🟢 You’ll be trained on how to be a(an):
- Assistant Referee (AR) – helps indicate when the ball goes out of play (out of bounds), helps identify offside offences and other fouls
- Center Referee (CR) – leads the match, manages the game, keeps things FAIR, FUN, and SAFE
You can officiate your own child’s games in 8U–12U!!!
For 14U, EXTRA & playoffs, we require neutral referees.
🙌 Help Your Team: STRIVE FOR FIVE!
Each team needs multiple referees to cover games throughout the season. Our motto?
STRIVE FOR FIVE
Encourage your team to sign up 5 referee volunteers to:
- Split the work
- Cover all games
- Earn playoff points
- Support your coach and players
🆙 Ready to Level Up (upgrade)?
Interested in upgrading your certification to Intermediate or Advanced or National? These are the certifications required for Center Refereeing at the 12, 14, and 16U divisions (respectively). We’ve got classes, mentorship, observations, and resources to support your growth.
Assistant Referees at the older divisions (12/14/16/19) only need the “Regional Referee Certification.”
📩 Email rra@ayso20.org or arra@ayso20.org to get started.
💬 Mentoring & Support
You’re never alone on the field. Region 20 has experienced mentors who will walk the fields, offer advice, and support new referees.
Look for the red referee jerseys — and ask questions anytime!
Ready to Join the Team?
Let’s make this the season you step onto the field — not just as a spectator, but as a game-changer.
📧 Questions? Reach out to Gray O’Brien, Regional Referee Administrator:
rra@ayso20.org
📘 Or follow the full Steps to Becoming a Referee to get started!
Thanks for making the magic happen.
AYSO runs on volunteers like YOU! 💙