If you would like further information on being a referee, please contact Brent Mecham at 785-6047 or by email ayso434_mecham@hotmail.com

Training for referees:

• Safe Haven (This is mandatory training for all volunteers that works with the children)
• For those of you that have not had an opportunity to complete this training it is now avialable online so that you can fit it into your schedule easier. Please click on the link above to get started.

Referees and Coaches – the safety director and the RC should be at preseason meetings. They are at the meetings for:

• Explain the accident report form to the coaches and referees and all other safety procedures.
• Go over the injury reporting procedures. 
• Reemphasize the importance of each coach having the original, signed player registration form with them at all practices and games.
• Shin guards are mandatory
• Discuss blood borne diseases.
• SAI procedure for filing a claim with the insurance company.

For other referee information got to the AYSO National web site.

Referee Uniform                                                  

Gold referee shirt with black stripes and trim, or

• Black referee shirt with white stripes and trim, or
• Red referee shirt with black stripes and trim.
• Blue referee shirt with black stripes and trim.

Referee Shorts

• Solid black
• Length not less than 3 nor more than 7 inches above the knee.

Referee Socks

• Black with three white stripes at top.
• If old style solid white tops, approximately 3-4 inches of white should show.
• As old style socks wear out, replace with three stripe socks.
• Pulled up over the calf.

Referee Badge

• Current AYSO badge.
• Only one badge on uniform.
• Badge fastened securely.
• (Optional) An American Flag patch may be worn. If worn it is to be attached on the left sleeve of the referee shirt, 3 inches down from the shoulder.

Referee Footwear

• Black, or black with white trim.
• Smooth, turf, or cleated soccer shoes.
• Shoes should be cleaned and polished.

Referee Hat (Optional)

• Solid black, or predominantly black with white trim, or
• Solid white, or predominantly white with black trim.
• Hats should bear no logos or slogans, except (1) AYSO logos (traditional, promotional, regional, or tournament) are permitted, and (2) National corporate apparel and sponsor logos are allowed.

Local conditions and common sense may dictate some variations from these recommendations. The referee and assistant referees should wear shirts of similar colors and style, thus appearing as a team on the field. If the referee chooses to wear an alternate jersey which the assistant referees do not have, then the assistant referees should at least match each other. Uniformity on the part of the officials establishes initial credibility for them as a team, and it demonstrates their kinship with an important group: the trained, dedicated referees and assistant referees of AYSO.

Referee 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 AYSO philosophies of "Everyone Plays", "Positive Coaching" and "Good Sportsmanship".
• Respect other referees' decisions, and do not publicly criticize another official.
• Wear the proper uniform and keep it in good condition.
• Maintain good physical condition so you can keep up with the action.
• Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches, parents, and spectators.
• 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.

The Laws of the Game (LOTG)

The following links provide detailed information concerning the Laws of the Game: