It is the mission of the LYSL to develop, deploy, and maintain a comprehensive program for the development and promotion of the game of soccer for the youth of Lincoln Township, and surrounding areas. This League has been established as a non-profit and e
Process, expectations & mechanics for LYSL recreational level referees
1. Administrative Info
If you have to cancel or change assignments contact the referee coordinator as soon as possible. Referee Coordinator: Mark Smith, 332-4691, president@lakeshoreyouthsoccer.com. Email is the preferred method, however, for less than 24 hour emergencies you must call mobile phone.
Payment process: Cash after match is played. If coach does not have an envelope contact .
Current pay schedule, you will need to initial receipt of payment on the payment envelope.
U10 Center $25
U12 Center $25, AR's $20, Single $35, Dual $25
U14 Center $35, AR's $25, Single $45, Dual $30
2. Pre-Game Management
Arrive at the field at least 20 minutes before the start time, dressed properly
Properly dressed includes referee shirt, shorts, socks with 3 white stripes pulled up & predominantly black shoes.
Verify field is ready (lines, corner flags, goals anchored, etc)
Introduce yourself to the coaches.
Review your expectations (game duration, substitutions timing, etc.)
Inspect player equipment
All must wear shin guards, socks over shin guard, shoes/cleats (must be soccer style), shorts, shirt. No jewelry unless medic-alert type. Prescription glasses only. Additional cold weather clothing must be worn under jersey. Goalie jersey color different than players.
Give limited instructions to players (sub process, offside (if used), etc)
Coin toss--winning team chooses direction to attack, other team kicks off
Start the game on time
3. Starting the game
Remind players to be on their half of the field till the ball is kicked, defense outside the
center circle.
Expect kick off procedure violations (no 2nd kick, players on their sides until ball is kicked). Restart with proper procedure.
4. During the game
Use your whistle to communicate. If they can’t hear it, you aren’t communicating.
Be instructive. Briefly explain your calls to ensure the players and/or coaches understand.
Verbally acknowledge all necessary fouls or misconduct (or lack of) whenever you think
there is a question (“watch the pushing”, “nothing there”). This let’s others (coaches,
players & parents) know that you are aware and doing your job.
Don’t let things go just because it is recreational soccer. Be conscious of the flow of the
game when deciding to make the call. This is the hardest part, since it requires a certain
degree of judgment that is developed over time. Do your best.
FIFA direct and indirect kick guidelines apply for divisions U10 and above.
Be decisive. Make your call and stick to it. Don’t back down because the coach or player
challenges you. You are in charge (whether you are right or wrong).
Make mistakes. What a great way to learn. If necessary, explain your error to the coach
and don’t repeat.
5. Key Specific Procedures
ARs: You must make every effort to be in the right position (even w/ last defender or ball,
whichever is closer to the goal). Get to the goal line quickly to make the correct call for
goals, corner kicks, goal kicks or any other potential situation.
ARs: flag position for substitutions (outside-not ready / inside ready)
Learn and practice the ceremonial start when using Diagonal System of Control (DSC) or Center/AR1/AR2 format. You’ll be expected to do this when working USSF games.
Referees start at touch line at hallway, walk on, shake hands, take positions.
If you find yourself shorthanded for a DSC assignment, be prepared to use a Dual (two referee)
system or club linesmen (ask each coach for one).
No deliberate heading U12 and under.
U10, remember to keep defending players out of the build out area when the goalie has the ball, whether is be a throw out (punting is not allowed) or a goalie kick.