Want to be on the soccer pitch, but make money doing it? Want to learn more about the game and know the rules better than most coaches and players? Do you want a side gig where you can play outside all weekend and make up to $500 while in college or working?
Do all this and more by becoming a soccer referee!
US Soccer has significantly changed the process for becoming a referee, it is actually easier and takes less time! The way to start the process is:
- Go to https://learning.ussoccer.com and create your account. Read the instructions carefully. You must be at least 13 years old when you register.
- If you are 18 years old or older, also complete the background check. It takes 5-10 days to process and must be back before you can register for a course.
- Register for a Grassroots – First-time Referees course. The online part will take 4-10 hours and does not have to be done all at once, but does have to be completed before the on-ground session.
- If you are 18 years old or older, also complete the other items listed (safesports training, etc)
- Attend the on-ground class anywhere in the state (anywhere in the United States actually).
- Purchase a full uniform kit to include yellow shirt, shorts, socks. Also purchase cards, whistle, and Velcro patch back for your badge. If you don’t already have one, also purchase a wrist watch with a count down or count up timer. Do NOT plan on using a cell phone or stop watch for game timing.
- Attend the on-ground class in your uniform with your equipment. Bring referee flags and cards if you have them. Label everything with your name. You can attend without the uniform, but wear clothes you can move in. The class is very active.
- Let me or Casey know when you pass the on-ground portion and we will get you into the system and start assigning you games.
If you have questions start at www.tnsoccer.org/referee. If you can’t find the answer there, ask me or Casey.
Costs are typically:
On-line and on ground class - $85
Background check (over 17 only) - $30
Uniform kit & equipment - $50 (www.officialsports.com starter kit + $10 watch at Walmart)
Notes & hints:
- Take your time and pay attention during the on-line training or you will end up redoing it.
- Start the on-line class at least a week before the in-person, sooner than that is better.
- Be ready to listen, move, and think at the in-person sessions. Pay attention to the registration notes on the classes.
- Uniforms can be bought at some sports stores or:
- www.officialsport.com
- Www.scoresports.com
- www.soccer.com
- Or where ever you like buying soccer stuff
- Get the yellow shirt first. Make sure it is the current pattern. See www.officialsports.com “starter kits” for the shirt stripe pattern and the 2-stripe sock pattern.
- Don’t get a whistle at Walmart. Get something that is loud when you blow it. $4-$9 is normal for a good whistle.
- Shoes should be mostly black with some white. Reffing in your playing cleats is fine for a game or two each day. Much more than that and your feet will hate you. I typically ref in running shoes. Trail shoes are better. For wet weather I use turf shoes.
Good luck and enjoy the game!
Bob Forde
TSA Dir of Referees
TSA/CCSL/CFFC/TLSRA Assignor
TSSA TSL Assignor
USSF Grassroots Referee