Becoming a high school referee?

[mrcrwddr]

Just joined this forum today; looking for referee information. Have coached youth recreation level, mostly girls, for last 10 years. In course of doing so have reffed my share of youth rec games. Took the beginner FIFA course several years ago, and read the rule book and interpretations every year to know the rules. I actually enjoy reffing (for the most part) rather than being a passive spectator. Plus I don't enjoy setting by "fans" who yell for every call/non-call even though they don't know the rules. I enjoy being out on the field with the kids. I'm 47 years old and in decent shape, and I'm thinking of becoming certified to do state high school matches. Looking for any advice, encouragement, warnings, etc.

[Metrostars19]

Along the same lines, I have refereed quite a few games, including state cup, and would like to start doing college games. I would prefer to not have to go through the high school system because I passionately dislike the 2-man system. Does anyone know how you would move to the college system and also if there is any way it could be done without doing high school games. I would prefer college games in New Jersey or Philadelphia, because that is where I live.

Thanks so much in advance.

[DerbyRam54]

In Iowa you could start by looking at this site http://www.iarefcom.org/ecisoa/IHSAA/ihsaa.html

Be aware that there are a number of differences between the LOAF and high school rules, some of which make sense, some of which don't. You'll also have to cope with the dual ref system which can work well if both refs have compatible interpretations of the laws but can be an embarassment when they don't. That said, you'll also likely end up doing a fair few games on your own which is a good workout!

Here in CT I have found that the schools have done a reasonable job of keeping parents under control and by and large the coaches are decent.

Best of luck if you pursue this.

[BC_Ref]

Along the same lines, I have refereed quite a few games, including state cup, and would like to start doing college games. I would prefer to not have to go through the high school system because I passionately dislike the 2-man system. Does anyone know how you would move to the college system and also if there is any way it could be done without doing high school games. I would prefer college games in New Jersey or Philadelphia, because that is where I live.



NISOA is the organization that handles US university soccer. They are unaffiliated with either the NFHS or USSF. From what I understand (we have a few US college refs or former refs up here), you need to be handling pretty serious games to be eligible. And they really do put you through a wringer - multiple assessments, letters of reference from existing members, etc... I don't believe you need to be doing high school games, but you must be involved with the top end youth or amateur - basically, the best your state can offer. Hopefully someone else can tell you more about the requirements and how best to apply.

[ref2coach]

Does anyone know how you would move to the college system and also if there is any way it could be done without doing high school games. Thanks so much in advance.

Go to the college referee website. nisoa.com Book yourself into one of their 4 day camps, you will be Book tested, fitness tested, and evalualted on Shortened games. Should you pass all three nisoa will waive the 3 years of High School experence. You must then join a local chapter to get your match assignments.

[IASocFan]

Just joined this forum today; looking for referee information. Have coached youth recreation level, mostly girls, for last 10 years. In course of doing so have reffed my share of youth rec games. Took the beginner FIFA course several years ago, and read the rule book and interpretations every year to know the rules. I actually enjoy reffing (for the most part) rather than being a passive spectator. Plus I don't enjoy setting by "fans" who yell for every call/non-call even though they don't know the rules. I enjoy being out on the field with the kids. I'm 47 years old and in decent shape, and I'm thinking of becoming certified to do state high school matches. Looking for any advice, encouragement, warnings, etc.

I've refereed high school in Central Iowa for about 8 years. iarefcom.org is a great place to start. There is a list of contacts on the website. If you're not a USSF referee, I'd start there with the Level 8 class. If you have questions, feel free to email or pm me. GOOD LUCK!

[john rod]

i didn't get to ref. my first high school game till i was 59. work/living always in the way. i do JV girls as a CR. and can do JV boys as an CR. i can do varsity boys and girls as a dual. and really enjoy that. i don't have the speed to go with a high school senior. plus i can do any of the 4 types as a AR.
i look forward to another season soon [just turned 60] :) . it takes a lot of work on my part. rest, liquid, riding my bike and lot's of streeeeeeching and warm=ups. but i do it. and better than some 35+ guys. rod

[NJ Ref]

Metrostars19, to sit for the College test (NISOA), you must be a USSF State Referee or have 3 years experience as a Varsity High School Referee. The higher the USSF Grade, the greater the likelihood you will be doing higher level college games. We just had a Grade 4 pass the college test (here in New Jersey), and he has already been assigned Division 1 ball. Good stuff!

[Law5]

I believe the original question was, essentially, "should I think about becoming a high school referee?" I coached until I was 40 and then started refereeing. Due to a shortage of high school referees, I was doing high school varsity games right out of the box. High school games should not be an entry level assignment! It definitely sorts out pretty quickly whether you've got the stuff it takes. If you feel you've been successful at the middle school youth games level, you're ready to try high school.
In fairness, however, high school is not at the same level of skills as club play for the same age players. You see a lot of players who only play soccer for the three months of their high school season. The result is that some of the guys will substitute "I'm bigger, I'm faster, so get out of my way" for actual soccer skills. Just call fouls and don't take the testosterone personally. High school boys are so easy to manipulate it kind of fun just to do it.