Q: Who are the referees?

A: All volunteers, they are us. Many referees start when their children are young and move up with them. Referee training is provided for all age groups and levels. In the younger age groups, referees are mostly parents who are new at it. Each team in the Under-8 through Under-10 age groups must have one and preferably two certified referees. Each team in teh Under-12 through Under-19 age groups must have two and preferably three certified referees.

Q: Why can't I yell at the referee?

A: Ragging and questioning the referees is not part of AYSO soccer. Remember that this is a game for kids. The kids learn what good sportsmanship looks like from how the adults act as much as what they say. Referees, coaches, all other volunteer parents and friends are out there to see that the game is safe, fair, and fun for the kids.

Q: What training is provided for referees?

A: There are several kinds of clinics: the introductory course for U6 & U8 referees; the basic Regional Referee certification course; upgrade clinics; refresher clinics; and Safe Haven clinics. Safe Haven training, which covers safety and child and volunteer protection, is an essential part of the training for AYSO referees. The referee clinics page describes the different clinics in more detail.

Q: What is Safe Haven ?

A: AYSO has made a commitment to their participants to provide a safe place for children to play and compete. The referee has a responsibility to help make our environment safe, as well as fun. We have developed materials that will instruct the referees on what we mean by a safe haven and how we can all participate in making the AYSO experience a positive one for our kids. Safe Haven certification is mandatory for all AYSO coaches and referees on a nation-wide basis, and can be obtained by attending a clinic where Safe Haven training is offered. A referee who has been Safe Haven certified will be entitled to legal indemnity for work as a referee under the Volunteer Protection Act of 1997. Safe Haven Training can be completed online at www.aysotraining.org.

Q: When are the referee clinics?

A: Clinics will be given at the beginning of each season. As soon as it becomes available every year, the full clinic schedule is posted in the referee pages.

Q: Do I have to buy my own uniform?

A: No. Once you complete your training, you will be provided with a free uniform (including jersey, shorts, and socks), badge, and a copy of the most current edition of the Laws of the Game . You will also be given a copy of Region 297's Player/Parent Handbook which gives complete details of all refereeing procedure in the Revier Region AYSO.

Q: Can I referee my own child's games?