How Soccer Referees Are Assigned to Each Game

This article primarily focuses on the assignment of referees to games at the grassroots and amateur levels in soccer. While the professional level has its own distinct system, this guide will provide insights into the process that grassroots referees and referee assignors follow.

Grassroots and Amateur Leagues

The assignment of referees to each game is a crucial aspect of maintaining the integrity of grassroots and amateur soccer matches. This applies particularly to leagues like the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL), as well as numerous youth and amateur leagues. In the United States, the process is managed differently for higher-level games. Higher-level matches often utilize professional referees and national assignors, with the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) overseeing such appointments.

Referees as Independent Contractors

Many grassroots and amateur referees are considered independent contractors. This means that, as a referee myself, I have the freedom to decide which matches I wish to officiate. However, this also requires me to actively seek out assignors who will provide the games for me to officiate.

Once I contact an assignor, they send out matches to referees, allowing us to either accept or decline the assignments. The process of receiving these assignments differs from assignor to assignor and also varies based on the state association the referee belongs to.

Assignment Methods: Software and Systems

Assignors and referee associations utilize various methods to manage match assignments. For instance, in the state where I officiate most games, the use of assigning software such as GameOfficials and ArbiterSports is common. Some assignors also have their own systems for managing assignments. The main idea behind these systems is to contact the assignor, express interest, and then receive matches to either accept or decline.

It’s important to note that not all assignors use the same software. The choice of software or system often depends on the assignor and the specific league requirements or preferences.

Advice for Referees

As a grassroots referee, it’s worth noting that while you have the freedom to decline matches for any reason, assignors tend to remember referees who decline matches for dubious reasons. This could affect future assignments and opportunities. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider the reasons for declining a match and perhaps even seek alternative options if possible.

Overall, the assignment process requires a proactive approach from referees to find opportunities and maintain good relationships with assignors to ensure a steady stream of games to officiate.

Keywords: Soccer Referees, Game Assignors, Referee Assignments