When you begin as a youth soccer referee, you may be working with kids at the very beginning of their athletic lives. Our primary role as a referee is to encourage fair play, good sportsmanship, and fun. Youth soccer referees have the opportunity to start at a young age. While there is no minimum age requirement, states will set their own standard of what age someone can begin to referee. Youth soccer referees are trained in the rules of the United States Soccer Federation, with a focus on referee certification programs.
How to Become a USSF Soccer Referee
In order to become a USSF referee, you must complete a referee training program and pass a standardized test. Youth soccer referees can start at either the Grade 9 or Grade 8 levels. Grade 9 is ideal for very young referees supervising games in local recreational leagues, often with fewer than 11 players per side.
The USSF has no age requirement for new referees. However, each state sets its own minimum age. Generally, youth soccer referees in Grades 8 and 9 will officiate games involving players their own age or younger. Training for Grade 9 soccer refereeing varies by state, typically lasting about eight hours. Some adults also start at this level to learn at a more gradual pace or to work alongside their children.
For those with more soccer experience, Grade 8 referees take on competitive youth and adult soccer matches. Due to the increased responsibility, training time for referee certification at this level can exceed 18 hours.
Youth Soccer Referee Certification
Because each state offers its own youth soccer officiating certification, a simple Google search is a great way to find out how to get started. Searching for “youth soccer referee” followed by the name of your state will usually lead to your state’s Youth Soccer Association website, where you can find details about referee training programs and certifications.
To become a certified referee, you’ll also need to register with the US Soccer Federation, which typically costs around $40. This fee is often included in the cost of the referee certification program, and dues are paid before each season in which you plan to referee.
Gaining Insight from Local Referees
A great way to learn about becoming a youth soccer referee is by talking to local referees who are already working in your community leagues. These referees can share valuable referee certification advice and guide you through the process of getting certified. They may also provide tips on finding work after obtaining your referee badge.
