Lastest Ref News

Important Referee Policy Change

Effective January 1, 2007 you must be 14 years old to take a Grade 8 Entry Level Referee course. 12 and 13 year old youths may still become referees by taking a Grade 9 (Recreational) Entry Level Referee course. Grade 9 referees may referee (and assistant referee) any recreational level game U-14 and below. There are no limitations for a Grade 8 Referee.

This policy change is seen a positive move in attracting more referees. A Grade 9 course is a one day course whereas a Grade 8 course covers three days. A Grade 9 course is also geared toward the basic elements of officiating which a 12 or 13 year old referee is most likely to see during their first years officiating. It emphasizes the small side games which are played by our U12 and below recreational teams. A Grade 9 referee may take a one day Bridge course to upgrade to Grade 8.

If you have any questions concerning becoming a referee contact Tim Clements, State Referee Administrator at sra@mississippisoccer.org.

KidSafe Requirement
All Referees, Assessors, Assignors And Instructors 18 Years Old And Older

You must go to the Mississippi Soccer Association web site (www.mississippisoccer.org) and complete a KidSafe Form before your 2007 registration is finalized. Failure to complete this step will result in your registration not being submitted to the United States Soccer Federation and you will not be allowed to officiate.

If you have completed the form because you hold another position within the soccer community (i.e. local officer, coach, assistant coach, etc) you do not have to apply again.

To fill out your online KidSafe form click here. Please note the following recommendations:

• Registration Type - If you hold a position other than Referee select that option. For example, if you coach you should select Coach. If you are an officer of a local league you would select Officer. If you only referee you would select Referee.
• Please complete the questions and select your organization when asked. If you are only a referee, select USSF.

Please contact Tim Clements, SRA (sra@mississippisoccer.org) should you have any questions regarding this matter.

Help Strengthen Our Young Referees by Participating in the Mentoring Program

We are asking upper level officials (Grade 7 and above) to select a young referee (Grade 7, 8 or 9) to mentor during the next soccer year. It is designed to be an informal yet informative process where you can be part of the development of one or more of our young referees. Simply click on the link below to register your nominee and begin mentoring them. If you have any questions please email Jose Sanchez, SYRA. Nominate Someone for the Referee Mentoring Program...