How to Become a Referee

Why Become a Referee?

Why should you become an AYSO Referee? We need you. We can't have games without referees. More importantly, it's rewarding and working with kids is great fun!

Referees are critical to soccer - the game can't be played without them. The referee's job is to be the official in charge of the game. He is the independent arbiter and manager of the game. Her authority extends to everyone at the field, including players, substitutes, team officials, spectators, and even assistant referees.

The referee's No. 1 one concern is to keep the game as safe as possible for the players. While there is risk in all sports, the referee is responsible for minimizing such risks from field conditions, equipment, spectators, and the players.

The referee is responsible for enforcing the Laws of the Game in such a way as to keep the game safe, fair and fun for everyone: the players, the coaches, the spectators and themselves. He interferes with the game as little as possible, avoiding making calls for doubtful and trifling offenses. Referees only make calls for offenses they are sure occurred.

We want our kids to continue to play, and they keep playing as long as it is fun. Referees learn that fun soccer varies from age group to age group of players.

Steps to Becoming a Referee

1. Visit our Hilo AYSO website at ayso274.org and register as a volunteer. For more information on how to volunteer visit our How to Volunteer page. There you will find step by step instructions to guide you through the process.

2. Complete a Safe Haven and CDC Concussion course at AYSOU. The login information to enter AYSOU will be the same as your login information for ayso274.org.

3. Sign up for a referee certification class at AYSOU. To determine the appropriate level of class visit our Referee Training Matrix page.

4. Welcome on board Referee.

Questions? Email [email protected]

Referee Course Schedule

Regional Referee In-Person Course

Referee Full In-Person Course

Date: Saturday, 02/28/26
Hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Location: TBA
What will be provided: Lunch and Refreshments
Contact Persons:
Joy Liwai - [email protected]
Required for Completion:
Complete the Regional Referee Online Course on AYSOU
Fee: None

The purpose of this course is to train Referees in all aspects of refereeing to develop skills that will allow the referee to officiate most AYSO soccer matches under the AYSO (FIFA) Laws and AYSO National Rules and Regulations.

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