Become a Region 177 Referee!

“Soccer is like a play in two acts with the Referee as the director.
The drama contains the full spectrum of emotions including suspense, excitement, periods of calm followed by intense action, there are heroes and occasionally villains, and good performances building to a dramatic conclusion.
A good director (Referee) with well-coached actors (players) has the capability of creating a wonderful two-act play (game) that will be enjoyed by all who observe.” — Ken Aston

AYSO is a 100% volunteer-run organization, from the Board members to the Coaches to the Referees. Therefore, it is imperative that we encourage volunteers to step up and become referees. We cannot have matches without referees, and the more we have, the less a few have to shoulder the burden for everyone.

The Region 177 Referee website provides all volunteers with current information, guidance, and training opportunities to fulfill all aspects of the AYSO National Referee Program. A good resource for information about the program is the National Referee Program Manual.

Why Should You Become an AYSO Referee?

Simply stated, the kids need you! No referees = No game

The referee's number one concern is to keep the game as safe as possible for the players.  The referee is responsible for enforcing the Laws of the Game in such a way as to keep the game SAFE, FAIR and FUN for everyone.

We provide training, uniforms, and equipment.  You choose the matches you wish to officiate.  More importantly, it's rewarding, and working with kids is great fun!
If you're someone under 18 who is still in school, volunteering as a referee will allow you to gain volunteer hours required for some organizations, as well as the ability to learn great skills - problem solving, time management, conflict resolution. It's a great low-risk environment in which to achieve these learnings.

Of course, on top of that, it is a fun and rewarding thing to do, and there is almost no better vantage point to watch soccer being played than as a referee!


If there are additional materials or links that you feel would benefit our Referee community, please forward your recommendations to the Region 177 Referee Administrator.