Interested in “the best seat” at every game? Contact us at info@springfieldayso.com for upcoming Referee Training.
Top 11 Reasons to become a Referee:
1. Support the Community
Volunteering as a referee helps strengthen the local sports community by ensuring that there are enough officials to keep games running smoothly. Without enough refs, games might get canceled or rescheduled, which disrupts the season for all players and families.
2. Provide Positive Role Models
Referees can set an example for young athletes by demonstrating fairness, respect, and good sportsmanship. Parents who take on this role show their kids that being involved in the game means more than just playing—it’s about giving back and fostering a positive environment.
3. Promote Fair Play
A referee’s job is to ensure that the rules are followed and the game is fair for all players. Parents who volunteer help maintain a level playing field, reducing the likelihood of unfair advantages or frustration due to improper calls or biased officiating.
4. Encourage Player Development
A good referee is critical in teaching players how to handle difficult situations (e.g., fouls, penalties) and how to respect the rules of the game. They can also help players learn important lessons about discipline, sportsmanship, and working as a team.
5. Help Keep Costs Down
Volunteering as a referee can help keep registration fees lower for everyone. The more volunteers there are, the less the league has to pay for paid officials, which can reduce the overall cost of participating in the league for families.
6. Learn the Game More Deeply
Refereeing allows parents to understand the sport at a deeper level. By learning the rules and the nuances of the game, they can become better supporters of their child’s development and more knowledgeable spectators during games.
7. Foster Communication Between Parents, Coaches, and Players
When parents become referees, they have a unique opportunity to communicate with coaches and other parents, building stronger relationships and understanding. It also helps parents appreciate the challenges that both coaches and players face on the field.
8. Help Reduce Parent Sideline Drama
Sometimes, parents can get overly involved and create tension on the sidelines. Having parent referees can help set a standard for appropriate behavior and reduce conflict or unsportsmanlike conduct during games.
9. Get Active and Involved
Refereeing is a great way for parents to get outdoors, stay active, and be more engaged in their child’s extracurricular activities. It’s also a fun way to make friends and be part of a dynamic team.
10. Build Confidence and Leadership Skills
Taking on a referee role gives parents the chance to develop leadership skills and confidence in decision-making. It also teaches them how to handle pressure, especially when they have to make tough calls in real-time, all while keeping a level head.
11. Be Part of a Rewarding Experience
Volunteering as a referee can be incredibly rewarding. Knowing that you are directly contributing to a positive and safe environment for youth athletes and helping to make games happen is fulfilling and can provide a sense of pride in giving back to the community.
How to become a Referee:
- On line training (1 hour)
- In person training (2 hours)
For more information: info@springfieldayso.com
Divisional notes:
6U CO-ED (Kindergarten)
To be eligible to play in the 6U Kindergarten Division, your child is enrolled in Kindergarten.
● 4 vs 4 players (8 on the roster, 5 vs 5 can be played if both coaches agree)
● Ball size 3
● Games are four 10-minute quarters with a 5-minute halftime break. There is no rest-period after a
quarter has passed, but substitutions are encouraged.
● No goalkeepers
● Out of bounds – ball is returned to play by a “kick-in” from sideline (opponents 10 feet back).
8U CO-ED (1st-2nd Grades)
To be eligible to play in the 8U Division, your child is enrolled in 1st or 2nd grade.
● 6 vs 6 players (9 on the roster, may play small-sided game if both coaches agree due to short roster)
● Ball size 3
● Games are four 10-minute quarters with a 5-minute halftime break. There is no rest-period after a
quarter has passed, but substitutions are encouraged.
● There are no goalkeepers. There can be a player positioned near the goal, may NOT use hands.
● Out of bounds – ball is returned to play by a “throw-in” (opponents 10 feet back). Pick foot up on throw
in? → give second chance weeks 1-4, lose possession on week 5 onward.
● No offside will be called.
● No corner kicks or goal kicks, instead players throw the ball in from the sideline (10′ from corner)
10U BOYS or GIRLS (3rd & 4th Grade)
To be eligible to play in the 10U Division, your child is enrolled in either 3rd or 4th grade.
● 7 vs 7 players (10 on the roster, may play small-sided game if both coaches agree due to short roster)
● Ball size 4
● Games are four 12.5-minute quarters with a 5-10 minute halftime break. There is no rest-period after a
quarter has passed, but substitutions are encouraged.
● Pick foot up on throw in? → give second chance week 1 & 2, lose possession on week 3 onward.
● Goalkeepers may use their hands
● Goalkeepers may NOT drop-kick. Opponents must be behind the “build-out line.”
● Corner kicks.
● Goal kicks may be taken by any defender, not just the keeper. Opponents must be behind the “buildout
line.”
● Offside is not called, but the concept is introduced with the “build out line.”
12U BOYS or GIRLS (5th & 6th Grade)
To be eligible to play in the 12U Division, your child is enrolled in either 5th or 6th grade.
● 9 vs 9 players (12 on roster, may play small-sided game if both coaches agree due to short roster)
● Ball size 4
● Games are four 15-minute quarters with a 5-10 minute halftime break. There is no rest-period after a
quarter has passed, but substitutions are encouraged.
● Subs on any dead ball.
● Any foul in the penalty area → penalty kick
● Reckless/purposeful foul → direct kick (can directly score), anything else → indirect kick (can’t score
directly), other team at least 10 yards from any kick location
● Offside is called.
● Pick foot up on throw in? → give second chance week 1 & 2, lose possession on week 3 onward
● Goalkeepers may use their hands
● Drop kicks are allowed.
● Corner kicks and goal kicks. Goal kicks may be taken