On this page 3 sections
If you’re 13 or older, you can train as a referee. It’s a good job for teenagers who love the game, and a good way for parents to help on a Saturday morning.
Why do it
- Course cost. The club pays you back for the referee course once you’ve finished it.
- Paid games. Referees are paid for every game they referee.
- It fits around school. Rec games are usually on Saturday mornings, in your own part of the county.
- Without referees, games don’t happen. Every referee means more kids get to play.
How to get certified
Referees in Michigan are certified through the Michigan Referee Program. The steps:
- Make an account on the US Soccer Learning Center, in the referee’s own name and date of birth. Under 18? Add a parent’s email to the profile.
- Sign up for the First Time Referee course hosted by the Michigan State Referee Committee.
- Do the online part (about four and a half hours), then go to the field session.
- Tell the club you’ve finished, so we can pay you back and put you on the game schedule.
The Michigan Referee Program has the full instructions on its Become a referee page. Next course near the county: we announce new courses by club email and on Facebook and Instagram.
Questions
Want to referee, or have a teenager who might? Get in touch through the club’s Facebook page.