Referees

 
 

Referees and RNYSA

Currently RNYSA has very little access to certified referees. Historically our rec soccer matches have been officiated by one or both coaches, which is not ideal for the coaches or players and does not always result in consistent calls on the field.

In order to have home travel soccer games, RNYSA needs to have local referees that can be scheduled to officiate them.

In order to continue to grow and improve the standard of play, RNYSA is seeking to gain access to a pool of knowledgeable certified referees who can enable us to have home travel games and potentially referee our rec soccer games as well.

Reasons to become a referee

According to the Michigan Referee Program, there are three primary reasons to become a referee:

  • Stay Active and Involved.

    • You don’t have to watch from the sidelines, and being involved doesn’t necessarily mean you have to coach.

    • Even if you or your family members are no longer actively playing the sport, you can still stay involved in it and continue to learn and stay physically fit.

  • Join a Diverse Community.

    • If you become a certified referee, you will be a part of the larger group of Michigan Referees. You will meet other folks from all walks of life even up here in Northern Michigan just by officiating games.

  • Earn Money & Set Your Schedule

    • Yes, one of the perks of being a referee is that they actually get paid. In this area most people aren’t going to be able to make a career out of refereeing, but it helps to offset the cost of certification, equipment, travel, etc. and can be a decent side hustle.

    • Referees are considered independent contractors and often work with multiple clubs/leagues in their area.

    • NMSA (Travel League) referee fees for the 2024 Fall Season can be found here in the Referee Considerations.

    • RNYSA is trying to incorporate referees at all levels of its recreational soccer program. At this point we are focusing on the oldest age groups with our limited referees, but as our pool of available referees grows we hope to be able to have officials at all age groups.

Becoming a referee

Who can become a referee? Anyone over the age of 13! Youth referees can officiate matches for younger players, and adults can referee all age groups. High school soccer players make great youth referees, as they have a great basic understanding of the Laws of the Game and being athletes are already in decent shape for running on the field.

RNYSA is willing to assist referees who are get certified and then referee games for RNYSA. This includes reimbursement of fees for background checks, courses, and some starter equipment. Please reach out to the Board for more details on this program.

If you are interested, please visit the Michigan Referee Program page to begin your journey to certification!

Referee Conduct

Certified referees are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with their training from USSF. RNYSA wishes to reinforce or add the following:

  • Remember that the game is for the players. Keep it safe and fair.

  • Respect your fellow referee’s decisions on the field and do not criticize them in public.

  • Wear the proper uniform to all official matches.

  • Maintain good physical condition so that you can keep up with the players.

  • Stay calm even if other participants or spectators are not.

  • Support good sportsmanship when exhibited by players, coaches, and spectators. Let them know that you see and appreciate it.

  • Always be fair and avoid conflicts of interest when possible.