The BRYC Flag Football Referee & Operations Lead (ROL) Program: Developing Leaders Through Service
The BRYC Philosophy for Referees and Operations Leads is "Lead the League. Build Yourself. Make Your Teammates Better"
The BRYC Flag Football Referee & Operations Lead Program is more than just an officiating team—it's a leadership development platform for 20 to 40 high school students who serve as the operational backbone of our league. These young referees are entrusted with running league days from start to finish, without adult oversight on the field, demonstrating maturity, responsibility, and exceptional poise under pressure.
Our referees possess a deep understanding of both NFL Flag and BRYC Flag Football rules and procedures. On game days, they take full ownership of league operations, including:
Officiating and facilitating games, ensuring fairness and flow
Communicating rules clearly and confidently to coaches, players, and families
Managing game schedules to ensure timely starts and transitions
Setting up and maintaining the fields of play
Enforcing site rules and maintaining a clean, organized environment
Managing and securing league equipment
Operating the Referee Tent, which doubles as a rest station for officials and an information/help desk for families
When needed, and with commissioner approval, support the league as a team coach
This program serves a dual purpose: to faithfully execute the mission of BRYC Flag Football and to empower the next generation of leaders. Through real-time decision making, communication under pressure, and responsibility for a complex community sports operation, our referees develop core leadership skills, grow their confidence, and gain a deep sense of personal efficacy.
The BRYC Referee Program is a testament to what young people can achieve when trusted with real responsibility—and it remains one of the most impactful components of our league.
Steps to Join the Team 🏃♂️
To become a BRYC Flag Football Referee & Operations Lead, you must complete four key steps:
Register: Register to become a referee on the BRYC Flag website.
Get NFL Certified & Complete Background Check: Complete the training modules and quizzes on the NFL Flag website. Download and email your certification PDF to [email protected]. Complete the Officials Background Check, which has a $25 fee reimbursed on your first paycheck.
Attend BRYC Training & Evaluation: You must attend both in-person sessions to be considered for a position.
Sign Employee Agreement: If you are offered a position after the evaluation, you must sign and return an employee agreement to secure your role. First-year referees start at $20 per hour.
Benefits of NFL Flag Certification:
Eligibility to officiate any NFL Flag league and tournaments (higher earning potential!)
High-quality, comprehensive training ensuring your success on the field
BRYC-specific training sessions focus on league-specific rules and operations. Additionally, all referees will interview with a panel to finalize selections and determine your salary:
Selected referees will receive an Employee Agreement detailing pay and expectations, which must be signed before the season begins.
Important Dates & Rewards:
- Referee Training Day: Monday, August 25th 2025 - 6:45 PM - 9:00 PM
- BRYC Clubhouse, 8940 Burke Lake Rd, Springfield VA 22151
- Referee Evaluation Day: Tuesday, August 26th 2025 - 6:45 PM - 9:00 PM
- BRYC Clubhouse, 8940 Burke Lake Rd, Springfield VA 22151