EAST GREENWICH SOCCER ASSOCIATION

Getting Started as a Referee

Interested in becoming a referee for EGSA? You've come to the right place!

First and foremost, make sure you are ready to take on this responsibility – you are getting paid to do a job and people will have an opinion about the job you do! Refereeing is a wonderful opportunity and it is also a tremendous responsibility. Plus, it's a fun way to earn a little extra spending money!

When can I become a referee?
Under a 2019 rule established by US Soccer, you must be at least 13 years old to be eligible to referee a competitive soccer game.
There is a pathway for 11-12 year olds to certify as a referee for recreational games.
No one younger than 11 is permitted to referee for EGSA.

Do I need to be a soccer player to referee?
No. While a good understanding of the game is necessary to be a competent referee, you do not necessarily need to be a soccer player!

I'm interested in becoming a referee. How do I get started?
Follow these instructions on the Rhode Island State Referee Committee (RISRC) website. They explain everything you need to know and how to register for a certification course. Also, US Youth Soccer (USYS) has some excellent advice for new referees.

What is the cost to become a referee?
The certification course costs about $160. This includes online and in-person training sessions, plus the referee uniform. Additional accessories, such as whistles and watches, cost extra.
- AFTER you have refereed EGSA games for one year (a minimum of 6 games), EGSA will reimburse 1/2 of your initial certification fee.
- Each year, the re-certification course & exam costs $70. EGSA reimburses this entire amount with the expectation that you will referee a minimum of 6 EGSA games that year.

Who do I contact if I have questions?
Please contact the EGSA Director of Referees with any questions you may have.

** EGSA follows the certification requirements for Soccer Rhode Island, The United States Soccer Association and FIFA.

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