To become a referee or umpire in Massachusetts, begin by contacting the board of officials in your area. Local boards prepare prospective high school sports referees to officiate the following MIAA sanctioned sports: football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, ice hockey, wrestling, volleyball, field hockey, baseball, softball, gymnastics, rugby, swimming and track & field.
Referee and Umpire Training in Mass
Local referee and umpire boards are responsible for recruiting and training new officials in Massachusetts. In some cases, the training involves attending classes where the rules of your sport are presented by an experienced member of the board. Testing is done online using an exam created by the National Federation of High School Officials. Testing ensures that you have a thorough understanding of the rules of your sport.
Depending on the sport, you may also be required to participate in in-game training sessions to help you with your calls, positioning and signals during actual game play. The instructor from your board will observe and critique your in-game mechanics as well to be sure that you are ready to begin officiating.
Passing the Online Rules Exam
If you receive a passing grade on the online rules exam and field test, you will become a member of the board, qualified officiate lower-level games within your sport. After paying your dues and completing the required concussion training program, your board will enroll you with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association.
High school level officials must re-register yearly with the MIAA. Registered officials must also apply for a background check on a three-year basis.
Game assignments are given by commissioners hired by leagues and conferences within the state of MA. Your board will guide you in the process of connecting with local commissioners.
Here is the link to the board presidents and secretaries around the state of Massachusetts. Contact the one closest to you to learn more about getting started with your officiating career.
