FAQWho are AYSO referees?
All referees are volunteers. Many referees start when their children are young and move up with them. Referee training is provided for all age groups and levels. Youth referees are also AYSO volunteers. Youth referees can be anyone under 18 y/o who is just starting out and AYSO is the organization that helps them begin their career in refereeing. Many youth referees are former and current players for AYSO and other soccer clubs.
Many former AYSO referees now referee in the GVSA. AYSO is where referees get their start!
Why does AYSO need volunteer referees?
AYSO is 100 percent volunteer organization; we all do it for the kids. Each season we need referees for 10U and above games. If there is no official referee for 10U and above, the kids don't get to play. These games require referees.
How do I become an AYSO referee?
First you must create an account in AYSO815.org AYSO will assign you an AYSO ID unique to you. You must then complete an AYSO volunteer application form at AYSO815.org Once you are approved as a volunteer, the training to become an AYSO referee is provided to you for free. You should contact our Region's Referee Administrator to get more information about the training schedule for referees in our Region.
Where do I buy my uniform?
Referee uniforms are available from a variety of sources. BC AYSO provides you with one referee shirt and whistle. Cards, stopwatches, flags, and other items needed for refereeing can be found at the BC AYSO trailer on game day.
Can I referee my own child's games?
There is no national rule prohibiting a referee from refereeing their own child's game.
Is prior soccer experience required to officiate?
No, but some familiarity with soccer is certainly a plus. Coaches, parents, players, and other volunteers have all proved to be excellent referees even if they have never played soccer. Youth referees are welcome!
Who is the Referee Administrator? What do they do?
The Referee Administrator is the volunteer person responsible for implementing the AYSO National Referee Program in specific parts of the country (Region, Area, Section or National). They also ensure all 10U and above games have referees so the kids can play!
Do I have to ref little kids before I can ref the older kids?
There is no requirement to referee younger players before refereeing older players. You may request referee assignments at whatever age level you feel comfortable. Refereeing at the various age levels requires different skills and just because the players are young doesn't necessarily mean the games are easier - they are different! Managing six or seven year olds (and their parents) and managing 14 or 15 year olds requires different skills.
We typically have referees start with 8U games. This allows for you to master the basics: coin toss, beginning the game, if the ball is in or out, keeping time, and which team has possession for throw-ins/kick-ins.
What should I do if there's a problem at a game with a coach or a spectator?
Report to the Referee Administrator and the Regional Commissioner about all incidents in which a coach or a spectator behaves in a way that makes a game something other than a safe, positive, enjoyable growth experience for the children.