Process, expectations & mechanics for LYSL recreational level referees

Administrative Information

• To cancel or change assignments
  If an assignment needs to canceled or changed, please contact the Referee Assignor as soon as possible.
  
  Referee Coordinator
  Mark Smith
  Cell phone: 269-332-4691
  E-mail:
  
  Email is the preferred method of communication. If a change is needed less than 24-hours before a game is scheduled, the Referee Assignor must be contacted on their cell phone.

   

• Field map
  To access the Field Map for the Rockey Weed Soccer Complex, please click here.

   

• Payment process
  Cash envelopes for referees are distributed to coaches at the beginning of the season. The coach of the home team should provide you cash after a game is played. You will need to initial receipt of payment on the payment envelope.
  
  If a coach does not have an envelope, please contact the league Treasurer at  .
   
• Current pay schedule
  • U10
    • Center $25
       
  • U12
    • Center $25
    • Single $35
    • Dual $25
       
  • U14
    • Center $35
    • AR's $25
    • Single $45
    • Dual $30

Pre-Game Management

• Arrive at the field at least 20 minutes before the start time, dressed properly
  Proper referee attire is:
  • Referee shirt,
  • Black shorts,
  • Socks with 3 white stripes, pulled up, and
  • Predominantly black shoes. 
     
• Verify field is ready
  Lines, corner flags, goals anchored, etc.
   
• Introduce yourself to the coaches
   
• Review game expectations
  Game duration, substitution timing, etc.
   
• Inspect player equipment
  All players must adhere to the following dress code:
  • Goalie jersey color different than players.
  • Additional cold weather clothing must be worn under jersey.
  • Prescription glasses only.
  • No jewelry unless medic-alert type.
  • Shirt.
  • Shorts, and
  • Shoes/cleats (must be soccer style),
  • Socks over shin guards,
  • Shin guards
     
• Provide limited instructions to players
  Substitution process, offsides (if used), etc.
   
• Coin toss
  The winning team chooses the direction to attack and the other team kicks off.
   
• Start game on time

Starting the game

• Remind players to be on their half of the field until the ball is kicked. The defense should remain outside the center circle.
   
• Expect kick-off procedure violations -- no second kick, players on their sides until the ball is kicked. Restart with proper procedure.

During the game

• FIFA direct and indirect kick guidelines apply for divisions U10 and above.
   
• A whistle is a communication tool. If the players cannot hear it, the referee isn't communicating loudly enough.
   
• Be instructive. Briefly explain calls to ensure the players and/or coaches understand.
   
• Verbally acknowledge all necessary fouls or misconduct, or lack of, whenever there may be a question. Examples of verbal acknowledgment include: "watch the pushing" or "nothing there"). This verbal communication provides reassurance to coaches, players, and parents that the referee is aware of what is occurring in the game and addressing it.
   
• Do not neglect to call misconduct just because it is recreational soccer.
   
• Be conscious of the flow of the game when deciding to make the call. This can be difficult at first because its a matter of personal judgment, but this skill is developed over time. A referee should do their best.
   
• Be decisive. A referee should make a call and stick to it, and not back down just because the coach or player challenges the call. 
   
• Make mistakes. What a great way to learn. If necessary, a referee should explain officiating errors to the Coaches and do their best to not repeat in the future. 

Specific Procedures

• ARs must make every effort to be in the right position -- even with the last defender or ball, whichever is closer to the goal. ARs must get to the goal line quickly to make the correct call for goals, corner kicks, goal kicks, or any other potential situation.
   
• ARs must be in flag position for substitutions -- outside means "not ready" and inside means "ready."
   
• Learn and practice the ceremonial start when using Diagonal System of Control (DSC) or Center/AR1/AR2 format. This will be expected when with games requiring a USSF-certified referee.
  • Referees start at touchline at the hallway, walk on, shake hands, and take positions.
     
• If shorthanded for a DSC assignment, be prepared to use a Dual system (two referees) or club linesmen. If club linesmen are needed, ask each Coach for one.
   
• No deliberate heading is allowed in divisions U12 and under.
   
• U10: Keep defending players out of the build-out area when the goalie has the ball, whether it be a throwout or a goalie kick. Reminder: Punting is not allowed. 
   
• Players on field:U10 7v7,U12 9v9,U14 11v11