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If you want to become a soccer referee in Illinois, your first step is getting a USSF grade 8 or 9 licenses. It’s required to take the USSF referee test. You’ll also need to contact the Illinois State Referee Committee for more information about how to get started as an official at the local level or higher. A good attitude and a willingness to learn are essential traits for any referee, but they also make it easier for them to pass their test on the first try—something that’s not always guaranteed even with lots of practice!
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Get A Grade 8 Or Grade 9 License
To become a soccer referee in Illinois, you must first obtain a Grade 8 or Grade 9 license from the Illinois Soccer Association. The process is relatively simple and can be completed online in just a few minutes. These two levels of certification are required for anyone who wants to officiate at that level.
To get a Grade 8 or 9 license:
- Complete an initial exam within one year of taking the course. If you don’t pass on the first try, retake it until you do!
- Then pass both written exams (no oral) and practical tests at least once every three years. You can take them online or by paper if needed—it doesn’t matter which method works best!
The process of becoming licensed is not tricky, but it does require some time and effort.
- First, candidates must complete an online training course. This course covers the basic rules of soccer and the responsibilities of a referee. After successfully completing the course, candidates must pass a written exam.
- Once they have passed the exam, they will be issued a license.
- There are also some physical requirements that candidates must meet to become licensed referees.
- They must be able to run for long periods of time and be in good physical condition.
- In addition, they must have good eyesight and hearing.
- Finally, they must be able to make quick decisions and remain calm under pressure.
- Anyone who meets these requirements can become a soccer referee in Illinois.
USSF Referee Test
The first step to becoming a soccer referee is passing the USSF’s referee test. This test is administered by the USSF, covering all aspects of soccer rules. It can be taken at local levels, where an instructor or referee will evaluate your performance in each section.
If you’re interested in taking this course but aren’t sure if it’s right for you, check out our guide on becoming a soccer referee here!
The test is administered at the local high school level, so there’s no need to worry about traveling far. Most high schools offer these classes as part of their curriculum, and you can take them during your lunch break.
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Visit The Coaches' Voice NowContact The Illinois State Referee Committee
The first thing you’ll want to do is contact the Illinois State Referee Committee. This organization is responsible for setting up a database of referees. They can also help you find other referees in your area who might be interested in becoming professional game officials.
You can reach them at:
- Illinois State Soccer Association (ISSA) – www.issa-state.org/about/contact/. ISSA has many resources on its website that will help you get started as an official—including an online directory with contact information for all levels of soccer in Illinois, including youth leagues and adult teams alike!
If you’re looking for more information about refereeing at all play levels or just want tips on how best to prepare yourself before stepping onto the field during matches between teams from across North America (and beyond). Then search on the web you need, including articles about common mistakes made by referees during games and insights into what makes good officiating successful overall.
Attend An In-Person Training Class
You’ll be required to participate in an in-person training class.
It’s the first step toward becoming a soccer referee, and you must prepare for it before your first official game. The Illinois State Referee Committee will provide free training classes for new officials at locations around Illinois, including:
- The Illinois Soccer Association (ISA) headquarters in Chicago;
- ISA regional offices; and
- ISA local chapters.
Work As An Assistant Referee
The assistant referee position is an excellent way to learn the game’s rules and how to keep a good attitude while officiating. You will be assigned to help with any calls that need to be made during games, but you don’t have the authority of a center referee or referee.
There are two ways in which you can get this position:
- Attend an in-person training class with other aspiring referees.* If you want additional experience before becoming an official, taking part in these classes will help prepare you for what’s ahead.
- The second option is to gain experience as an assistant referee with a center referee. It means you will assist the official at games and get your feet wet before becoming one yourself.
The requirements and classes vary depending on your state.
How To Keep A Good Attitude While Officiating?
You will also need to know how to deal with difficult situations, players, coaches, and spectators. Some soccer referees have been known to try to control their games too much or not enough. It’s a mistake!
Always remember that the players are ultimately responsible for their actions, which means you should only intervene when necessary. Remember that officiating soccer is hard work but a rewarding career. When in doubt, just do your best.
To Sum Up
Becoming a soccer referee is a big step, but the rewards are great. As a soccer referee, you’ll be able to work at all levels of competition and experience the best parts of being involved in an exciting sport. You’ll also be able to help grow the sport through your skills as an official, which can only make it better for everyone involved. That’s all for now. Thanks for reading.
Woodland Soccer Team
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