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PURPOSE

The purpose of the GR first time referee

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

GOALS

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

OUTCOME

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.

MEETINGS

DEVELOPMENT PERIODS

COURSE FEE

Set by Hosting SRC

COURSES PER YEAR

Varies

COURSE SIZE

Varies

ELIGIBILITY

The national eligibility standards for GR

First Time Course are:
13 years or older
Please be advised some states may have a
different age limitation. Please reach out to
your State Referee Committee if you have
any questions.

ADMISSION CRITERIA

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)
Additional State Assignments as
required

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Pass all course requirements as

satisfactory.

COURSE EXPERIENCE

For more information on the expectations

of a Grassroots referee, see the referee
profile here.

FAQ

HOW DO I FIND THE RIGHT COURSE?

WHAT IF I HAVE ALREADY DONE SAFESPORT?

WHAT DOES MY BACKGROUND CHECK STATUS

MEAN?

HOW DO I CONTACT MY STATE REFEREE

COMMITTEE (SRC)?

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY BADGE?

HOW DO I GET GAME ASSIGNMENTS?

HOW DO I FIND MY ASSIGNMENTS?

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