Referee FAQ
Q. How do I become an LYSA Referee?
A. You must first complete an LYSA volunteer application form and be approved as an LYSA volunteer. Once you are approved as a volunteer, the training to become an LYSA referee is provided to you free of charge. Note: All volunteers must register annually, even if they no longer have kids in LYSA.
Q. Is prior soccer experience required to officiate?
A. No, but some familiarity with soccer is certainly a plus. Coaches, parents, players and other volunteers have all proved to be excellent referees even if they have not played this sport. (Youth referees are welcome!)
Q. How are referees assigned to games?
A. Once you are a certified LYSA referee, you will be assigned games based on your availability and according to the needs of the league. LYSA referees are volunteers and do not get paid.
- In Divisions U-10 to U-14, referees are assigned using the self-scheduling process. However, some experienced referees may be automatically assigned based on the Referee Administrator’s discretion.
- In Divisions U-8 and below, the teams involved in each game will provide their own referees.
Q. Where do I get referee gear and equipment?
A. For official shirts, shorts, socks, patches, flags and other equipment, contact Referee Administrator.
Q. I’m already a Division Referee, when should I try to become an Intermediate Referee?
A. Referees are welcome to upgrade at anytime. You should have an Intermediate certification to ref U14 and above games. However, we encourage all of our refs to strive for the highest certification possible regardless of which division you primarily referee. To find out more about upgrading your certification, contact our Referee Administrator.
Still have a question? Contact Joel Andersen at Coach@LaneYouthSoccer.org.