Become a Soccer Referee
Give back to the game you love. Officiating youth soccer is a rewarding way to stay involved and support your community.
Why Become a Referee?
Youth soccer needs qualified referees to keep games fair, safe, and fun. Whether you're a former player, a soccer parent, or just someone who loves the game, becoming a certified referee is a great way to give back. Referees are always in demand, and the certification process is straightforward.
Earn Money
Referees are paid per game. It's a great way to earn extra income doing something you enjoy.
Flexible Schedule
Work as many or as few games as your schedule allows. You're in control.
Support Your Community
Help provide a positive experience for young players across Gardner, Templeton, Baldwinville, Phillipston, and Winchendon.
Build Leadership Skills
Officiating develops confidence, decision-making, and communication skills.
How to Get Certified
Create an MSRC Account
Create an account at MassRef.net (MSRC Central). This allows you to sign up for courses, access your referee profile, and upload your headshot. Enter only the referee's information — not the parent's.
Enroll in a Course
Search for a "New Referee – Orientation" course at central.massref.net. Courses run throughout the year, concentrated in summer and winter. You must be at least 14 years old. The course fee is $95, which includes your first year of USSF registration.
Create a U.S. Soccer Learning Center Account
Sign up at learning.ussoccer.com/referee. This platform hosts your online course content and supplemental requirements. Do not create a duplicate account if you already have one as a coach or former referee.
Complete U.S. Soccer Supplemental Courses
Complete the required safety courses at learning.ussoccer.com/safe-soccer. "Intro to Safety" is required for ALL referees (free). Referees 18+ must also complete SafeSport certification (free) and a National Background Check ($24, covers 2 years). Start these before your course to avoid delays.
Complete Pre-Course Online Referee Modules
Access the Massachusetts-specific online referee modules through the U.S. Soccer Learning Center. Log in first, then click the link in the Notes/MyStatus section of your course listing. Plan for 4–6 hours and complete them at least 24 hours before your course date.
Attend the Course
Attend your selected referee course. For in-person courses, arrive early and bring something to write with, a snack, water, and your Registration Letter. For online courses, have a working webcam and microphone in a distraction-free location.
Attend a Field Session
Complete an in-person field training session at a location near you. Both indoor and outdoor sessions are available. Dress and prepare your footwear appropriately for the surface. This practical session is required to complete certification.
Complete the Post-Course Test
Log in to your MSRC account, go to MyStatus, and click "Online Test" to take the certification exam. If needed, you can retake the test from the same link until you achieve a passing score.
Get Your Badge & Start Reffing!
Once your modules, test, and supplemental courses are complete, you'll be a certified referee and your badge will be mailed to you. Contact a local assignor through central.massref.net to start receiving game assignments right away.
Get Started Today
MassRef.net Referee Program
Official Massachusetts State Referee Committee site for certification steps, course schedules, and registration.
U.S. Soccer Learning Center
Complete your online referee course through the official U.S. Soccer education platform.
Laws of the Game
The official FIFA Laws of the Game — essential reading for all referees.
Contact Your Local Assignor
Contact Chair City Soccer President & Ref Assigner, Josh Cormier — to get local game assignments in the Chair City Soccer area.
Ready to Get Started?
Visit MassRef.net to find the next available referee certification course near you.