Why should you become an AYSO Referee? We need you. We can't have games without referees. More importantly, it's rewarding and working with kids is great fun!

Referees are critical to soccer - the game can't be played without them. The referee's job is to be the official in charge of the game. He is the independent arbiter and manager of the game. Her authority extends to everyone at the field, including players, substitutes, team officials, spectators, and even assistant referees.

The referee's number one concern is to keep the game as safe as possible for the players. While there is risk in all sports, the referee is responsible for minimizing such risks from field conditions, equipment, spectators, and the players.

The referee is responsible for enforcing the Laws of the Game in such a way as to keep the game safe, fair and fun for everyone: the players, the coaches, the spectators and themselves. He interferes with the game as little as possible, avoiding making calls for doubtful and trifling offenses. Referees only make calls for offenses they are sure occurred.

We want our kids to continue to play, and they keep playing as long as it is fun. Referees learn that fun soccer varies from age group to age group of players.

Step 1 – Register as an AYSO Volunteer 

All referees must register as volunteers every season. Youth volunteers (ages 12-17) will need a parent or guardian to complete the on-line volunteer process for them. Register on-line as a Volunteer with AYSO at www.ayso820.org
Click here for detailed instructions for adult volunteers:  How to register as a Volunteer
Click here for detailed instructions for youth volunteers:  How to create a youth volunteer account

Step 2 – Complete Safe Haven, Concussion Awareness and Sudden Cardiac Arrest, as well as an online Regional Referee Course
All new referees must complete:

• AYSO Safe Haven
• Concussion Awareness (CDC Heads Up Concussion Training)
• Sudden Cardiac Arrest
• Online Regional Referee Course (found on volunteer tab then my training button)
• Link for the three courses: www.aysou.org

Step 3 – Attend a Basic Referee Course 

• Regional Referee Online Companion Course - Dates vary
• You must pre-register for each classroom course on the volunteer tab by selecting "my training".

Step 4 – Field Mentoring
All New Referees must be mentored by one of Region 820’s approved mentors or another Region’s mentoring event with experienced referee mentors. Region 820 Referee Uniform Distribution

• Once the volunteer has completed all steps above a Referee Uniform will be distributed.