Becoming A Referee
Refereeing youth soccer is a great avenue for young adults to develop the leadership skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. Refereeing also looks very good on college and job applications as it demonstrates commitment, integrity and work ethic. On top of all that, you can earn a few bucks along the way.
If you are interested in becoming a referee, please visit the referee website at http://flsrc.org/register/become-a-referee/ click on “New Referee Registration button at the top to start the registration process. All Referee courses are currently held online. Follow the prompts to create your referee profile, please ensure you take the Grade 8 Entry Level Course.
All newly trained referees start in our recreational soccer program, there, they gain their experience and increase their confidence. When the referee assignor thinks they are ready to move onto the next level (competitive soccer), he will then speak to you and get you in touch with Barry Finkelstein, our area assignor for Competitive games. Please create a referee account at www.gotsoccer.com, this is different than your players account. Click on [Referees and Assignors], Click on [Register] underneath [New Accounts].
If you are over 18, a background check must be performed. If you are under 18, you must perform an age verification. This can be found at the top of your gotsoccer referee account web page.
Referee Dress Code The attached document will help you with looking like a pro on the sidelines. Referee_Program_Standards_of_Dress
Information from US Soccer for the NEW Referee– New Referees always have many questions, that’s OK! The attached guide helps you get the answers you are looking for. Information_for_New_Referees
US Soccer’s Referee Pocket Guide – This document shows you the proper signals (Referee and Assistant Referee) – It helps you understand many different things and should be with you at all times – It contains the following: Standards Chart, What to do before the game, Pre-Game, During the Game and After the Game – Referee Pocketguide
Referees Code of Conduct:
Always remember that the game is for the players. Player safety and fair play comes first.
Study and learn the laws of the Game and understand the “spirit” of the Laws. Help fellow referees do the same.
Encourage and enforce the philosophies of “Everyone Plays,” “Positive Coaching” and “Good Sportsmanship.”
Respect other referees’ decisions and do not publicly criticize another official.
Dress and Act Professional. Shirt tucked in and socks are picked up. Look like you want to be there!
Maintain good physical condition so you can keep up with the action.
Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches and parents.
Honor accepted game assignments. In an emergency, find a replacement.
Support good sportsmanship with a kind word to players, coaches and parents of both teams when deserved.
Always be fair and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest. Decisions based on personal bias are dishonest and unacceptable.