How to Become a Soccer Referee in Florida

Florida is an ideal state for soccer on so many levels. For starters, the national youth IMG Soccer Academy is located there.The warm climate allows for year-round play, and it's a big state, with many programs for different age groups scattered throughout several cities and regions. Moreover, a substantial population of immigrants brings an element of diversity and new ideas to the game. There will never be a shortage of work for soccer referees in the Sunshine State.

Things You'll Need

  • Certifications from Florida State Referees Inc. or equivalent agency that meets U.S. Soccer Federation standards
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn the rules and objectives of soccer first. If you haven't played organized soccer, watch a local youth recreational game live as well as a professional match on television. Seeing the game played on both ends of the spectrum will give you a sense of the challenges referees face and how they, too, must become more skilled in their right. Not every referee certification program will require you to understand the sport before you begin classroom training, but you're better off if you begin the program ready to learn how to make calls instead of why to make calls.

    • 2

      Enroll in a certification program. According to Florida State Referees Inc., an established referee credentialing board in that state, an 18-hour course is an industry standard for eighth-grade referees, with higher grade levels requiring additional coursework. Classes are held regularly in different locations and are also available online.

    • 3

      Call some games. Once you have certification in hand, the next step is to get experience. The best way to become a better referee is to face the improvisational challenges of a live match. Contact local soccer clubs and recreation programs about available slots even if they are unpaid. Be willing to work as a linesman/referee's assistant first for the maximum age group you are certified for. In addition, it's wise to ref games for the younger age groups, even if it's modified soccer, so you'll feel comfortable stepping up to the task of head referee when a gig becomes available in your certified age group.

    • 4

      Continue on with certification for older age groups, and take refresher courses to keep up with any rule or policy changes, or if you've taken a hiatus from refereeing.