Become an AYSO Referee

AYSO depends on volunteer referees. We are a 100% volunteer organization.
If we don’t have referees, games don’t happen.

Refereeing is a fun, active way to stay involved with your player, learn the game, and support a safe, fair, and positive experience for all players. Compared to coaching, it is a flexible and lower time commitment; you choose the games that fit your schedule.

No prior experience is required. AYSO provides training, mentorship, and support.

• Support your player’s team and the AYSO community

• Help ensure games are safe, fair, and fun

• Flexible commitment—no weekly obligation

• Great way to learn and understand the game

• Build leadership, confidence, and communication skills

• Referees sign up for games based on their availability

• You choose the level you are comfortable officiating

• New referees are supported and paired with experienced referees when possible

• Many new referees start as 10U Assistant Referees or with 8U games

06U games do not use referees
Coaches help guide play at this level

07U/08U games require 08U Referee Certification
(Online training only)

09U/10U games require the Regional Referee Certification 
(Online training plus in-person field session)

12U+ games require higher level Certification that builds off of the Regional Referee Certification.  For details please contact our Ref Admin!

Volunteer Registration Instructions

Step 1: Register as an AYSO Volunteer! In the top right corner, click “Register Now.” First-time volunteers: Create a new account using your email address and a password, then follow the prompts to complete your registration. Returning volunteers: Log into your account, click “My Account,” then select “Volunteer” from the left-side menu to register for the current season. Please note: Use your legal name and a unique email address (not shared). Your email is your identity in AYSO systems and must match your background check, LiveScan, and training records.

Step 2: Sign Up as a Referee

In your account, click “Volunteer,” then select “Referee.”
Click “View Divisions,” select Referee, then click “View Selected Opportunities” in the bottom right to continue.

Select the user who will be refereeing. If registering a partner, they must have their own account with a unique email. If accounts need to be linked, please contact [email protected].

Step 3: Complete Required Volunteer Requirements
👉 See AYSO Volunteer Training page (background check, LiveScan, and safety training). Most of this is completed online via "AYSOU". 

Step 4: Complete Referee Training
👉 See Referee Training & Certification page. Most of this is completed online via "AYSOU" plus an in-person field training. 

Step 5: Start Refereeing
Once certified, you can sign up for games that fit your schedule and comfort level. 

Each season, we need as many referees as coaches, if not more.
Without referees, players cannot play.

Questions?
Contact our Regional Referee Administrator:
Aaron Hope
[email protected]