I'm thinking of refereeing but...
I have no time
Referees get to pick their own games. Choose as few or as many as you'd like. Plus, refereeing is a much smaller commitment than coaching and you still make just as big an impact on the kids.
I'm not comfortable refereeing on the field
Most referees start out as Assistant Referees (ARs). The ARs are the sideline referees who raise flags when the ball goes in and out. If you're not comfortable being the center referee (the main referee in charge of the game), the AR is a great way to ease into the refereeing world.
I have little to no experience with soccer
Great. Your mind is an empty cup. We teach you the laws of soccer, and train you for free.
Why does AYSO need volunteer referees?
AYSO is 100 percent volunteer organization; we all do it for the kids. Each season we need as many referees as coaches if not more; refereeing is easier and less of a time commitment. AYSO is about playing Fun, Fair and Safe. Our referee training is what makes it possible. If there is no official to referee a game the kids don't get to play.
I don't have a uniform.
Region 114 supplies, for free, a complete referee "kit" (shirt, shorts, awesome over-the-calf socks!) to all referees who complete their in-class training and online safety courses. Plus, we throw in all the accessories you need: a referee booklet, flags, and Laws of the game book.
I don't have a whistle.
That's a pretty weak excuse. But yeah, we give you one of those too.
I never played soccer. I'm not familiar with its laws.
We train you. We give you the Laws book. You can also request a mentor to stand on the sideline and answer your questions, one on one, while you referee.
Fine. I am out of excuses. I will referee!
It really is the best view on the field. And most importantly: IT'S FUN AND REWARDING TO WORK WITH KIDS!