Michigan Youth Soccer Referee Training

Youth soccer is one of the most popular sports in the United States. Youth soccer in Michigan is governed by the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA) and the Michigan Soccer Association. The two governing bodies combine to offer referee training throughout the state. Referee qualifications achieved in Michigan are recognized and sanctioned by both the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) and U.S. Youth Soccer.

  1. Entry-Level Clinic

    • The entry-level clinic is mandatory for all aspiring referees in the state of Michigan. The course is offered year-round with dates listed on the official website of the Michigan Referee Committee. The entry-level clinic is an eight-hour commitment that consists mostly of classroom work with field demonstrations if field space is available. The course is usually spread over two to three days, and the clinic teaches soccer according to FIFA rules.

    Certification

    • Michigan referees who have completed the entry-level clinic are permitted to take a certification test. The 100-question test focuses on FIFA rules, and a score of 75 percent or greater is required to pass. Michigan referees who pass become a USSF Grade 9 referee and are permitted to referee recreational games of ages 14 and under. Grade 9 referees can be an assistant referee in U14 and under competitive games. Further qualifications are available to referees who wish to pursue their field to higher levels, with MSYSA offering bridge courses to higher USSF qualifications. Referee certifications must be renewed at the end of each year.

    Fitness

    • Michigan referees have their speed and endurance tested annually as part of their referee training. The endurance test involves a 12-minute run. Referees must run between 1,800 and 2,200 meters in this time--age and level impact the results that must be achieved. Referees of all ages must complete a timed 50-meter and 200-meter dash. To be certified, a Michigan referee must complete a 50-meter dash in nine seconds or less and the 200 in 40 seconds or less.

    Games

    • When referees are certified to USSF Grade 9 certification level they may referee in games. MSYSA recommends watching games and learning from other officials as part of referee training. Michigan referees are graded by assignors once per season. Feedback is given and aimed to improve a referee's performance.

    Finances

    • The MYSA entry-level class costs $60 for every referee--this includes the certification exam. The re-certification class that must be taken annually costs $55. Youth soccer referees are typically paid from $20 per game as an assistant to $40 as a main referee.