• Always remember that the game is for the players. Player safety and fair play comes first.
• Study and learn the Laws of the Game and understand the "spirit" of the Laws. Help fellow referees do the same.
• Encourage and enforce the AYSO philosophies of "Everyone Plays", "Positive Coaching" and "Good Sportsmanship".
• Respect other referees' decisions, and do not publicly criticize another official.
• Wear the proper uniform and keep it in good condition.
• Maintain good physical condition so you can keep up with the action.
• Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, coaches and parents.
• Honor accepted game assignments. In an emergency, find a replacement.
• Support good sportsmanship with a kind word to players, coaches and parents of both teams when deserved.
• Always be fair and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest. Decisions based on personal bias are dishonest and unacceptable.

• AYSO PRO stands for Player Referee Organization. It is the standard name given to AYSO Referee programs geared towards kids 18 years old and younger. Anyone is welcome to become a youth referee - they do not have to be a soccer player to join PRO. However, 95% of AYSO youth referees are also soccer players and therefore the program is named Player Referee Organization. Take this link to find the AYSO PRO home page for more information. There you can find the AYSO PRO Handbook and plenty of other information.

This page last updated on:
05/07/2008 8:04 AM