MTYS Rec Referee Training

Knowing the importance that officiating can have to the experience of players and families, MTYS has established a training program for youth interested in officiating for recreational soccer leagues (Micros, Town, and Academy). 

While experience with the game is valuable, any interested youth are eligible. The training process can begin at age 12, and field experience can begin at age 13 or older. 

The training program approach consist of three phases:

1. Individual study of the Laws of the Game and recreational league modifications of the Laws
2. In class instruction emphasizing technique, position, signaling, communication, and nuance of gameplay, through discussion, hypothetical scenarios, and visual aids.
3. Field side observation and mentoring, with review of aspects of performance and tweaks to improve or attributes to maintain. 

Youth referees are encouraged to communicate their feeling of readiness for changing and evolving roles (center referee/assistant, referee, league level) with the trainer/mentor, to set a pace for their development that aligns with their comfort and ability.

Youth referees may choose at some point to pursue certification with NJYS, for which this training is intended to be a firm foundation.

The trainers/mentors for this program have a combined experience of over 40 years of both coaching the game of soccer and working with youth development programs and education, as well as over 10 years of registered, certified officiating experience.