GRASSROOTS FIRST-TIME REFEREES

NYSA offers in town training for any 14 year old that would be interested in serving as a local ref for our U8 games held on Saturday mornings. If interested please contact [email protected] for more info. 

The purpose of the Grassroots first time referee course is to prepare first time Grassroots referees to work in a competitive or recreational youth and amateur adult matches.

To become a licensed Massachusetts referee you must become certified with training. 

The goal of the First Time Grassroot Referee course is to broaden a candidate’s understanding on how to:

Facilitate a fair, fun, and safe game for the players by enforcing and applying the Laws of the Game 

Make and clearly communicate decisions based on perception and interpretation of player’s actions 

Facilitate understanding and application the Laws of the Game for players and coaches 

On successful completion of the course, candidates will receive a Grassroots Referee license for the current registration year. Once the license and badge are received, Grassroots referees can officiate competitive, small-sided or recreational youth and amateur adult matches.  

ELIGIBILITY: The national eligibility standards for Grassroots first time course are:

14 years or older

First Time Grassroots Referees completing registration through the Learning Center must complete the following requirements. 

Introduction to Safe and Healthy Playing Environments – 1 hr. 

SafeSport (if 18 years or older)- 1 hr.  

Online Grassroots Referee Course Module – 4.5 hr.  

First Time Grassroots Referee Quiz -  45 mins. 

U.S. Soccer Federation Gold Standard NCSI Background Check (if 18 years or older)  
Participate and pass in person field session held in Massachusetts

https://central.massref.net/login_form.cfm