The Chicago Fire is hosting 3 recertification clinics for 2008, during the summer of 2007, one in June, July, and August. There is some class time, then you watch a Fire game and afterwards you get to talk with the referees. You have to pay for the ticket which is, $20, plus the $35 for the clinic, total $55 Go here for info At my recertification clinic for this year, I asked the instructor about this program, and he didn't seem to think it is good. I really don't care, I want to meet with a MLS reff. I hope when I go the center is one of the full time referees. The tickets can be bought for friends and families also! Just thought to spread the news of this so people can meet MLS referees!
Terry Vaughn has been putting on an annual referee clinic each March for the last 5-6 years in Iowa. He's had Kevin Stott, Kari Seitz, Brian Hall, George Gansner, Nate Clement, Greg Barkey, and others. The cost is included in Association dues, but donations are requested. The first day is for entry level referees, the second day is more advanced. Most of the top referees from Iowa attend including several National Referees. A great event. Check iowareferees.org for more information. Several years ago, the Wizards held a referee session after one of the Wizards games. Richard Herron and the ARs did a great job of talking about being a referee and some of the decisions they made on the field that day. There was no additional cost for the session. I wish MLS and USSF would sponsor more of these activities! It might get some of the locals more interested in MLS than the Euro leagues, too!
Wow the Iowa Referee Committee's website has better structure than Illinois'. Not to be complaining about IL's, but good job webmaster, who ever you may be! Hehe, I found an interesting photo on the Iowa RC site.
Every MLS city has the ability to do this, Q &A post game. I am going to the one in columbus in June. I was at the one last year in Columbus and they had about 250 in the room. Salazar, Quisenberry, were the top 2 there and new FIFA AR cJ morgante was there also. It just depend on the club and the city. Your correct it might help to keep people on MLS and US Soccer than Euro Soccer