Referee Information

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HOW TO BECOME A REFEREE

Becoming a referee takes just a few steps - Register for a training class, complete the online coursework, attend the classroom session, buy a uniform, and work your first game.

Becoming a United States Soccer Federation (USSF) Grad 8 Referee (Please note, this is not a school grade, but a classification grade). A new referee must complete the required online coursework, pass the online Grade 8 Entry Level test by scoring a minimum of 75%, as well as attend a 7 hour Entry Level Training classroom session. The candidate is then registered as a Grade 8 Referee and given their USSF badge. The clinics are scheduled by leagues, clubs, and other groups.

We will try to host a clinic in Plainfield each year if the interest is there. If we can't host one in Plainfield you can find out when and where the next host in Plainfield you can find out when and where the next coursed are being held by reviewing the list of First Year Entry Level Training Classes. Select the training class that fits your schedule, register, and you are on your way!

FAQ FOR NEW REFEREES

Age
Anyone over the age of 12 years old may sign up to take the course to become a referee.

Cost
The cost of the Entry Level class is $90. More info on the classes can be found below.

The Uniform and Equipment
Now that you've passed the test and have registered with USSF it's time to go out and buy your first uniform. The basic uniform for referees is a yellow shirt, black referee shorts, black socks and shoes. Though there are several places to buy uniforms, USSF is officially sponsored by Official Sports Inc., (view website) or print this flyer for a discount package on an Indiana Starter Kit. Your starter kit should include just about everything you need to work your matches. For completeness here is a short list: Uniform (Referee jersey and black shorts), watch with a timer, whistle, a pad of paper to keep score, a flipping coin, red and yellow cards and a set of flags.

Getting Games
Now that you've passed the test, bought your uniform and all the equipment, you'll need to make sure that Jim Eckroth is your primary assignor on you GotSoccer referee account. You will also need to register for the current season of Plainfield Optimist Soccer to be assigned games.

After Your First Year
Now that you have been on the field as a referee, gained valuable experience, learned how to blow the whistle properly, understand the importance of good positioning, communication, and applying the laws, now what? Every year you will be required to follow a recertification process to keep your referee registration active. The list of current recertification classed can be found at the same place that the entry level classes are listed.

Jason Miller

Referee Coordinator and Assignor