Each year U S YOUTH SOCCER chooses a National Young
Referee of the Year for boys and girls. Development of referees is an important element in
preparation for the future of soccer in the United States and through the Young Referee of
the Year program, U S YOUTH SOCCER attempts to foster this development. Many of the
leagues around the country would not be able to cover all their games if it was not for
the involvement of youth referees. These referees are often young people who have been
playing the game for many years who can be seen out on the field weekend after weekend,
sometimes all day, refereeing games. It is important to recognize their contribution to
the leagues and to the game.
Recipients of the award must be classified as under nineteen years of age for the seasonal
year in which they are nominated, and must be registered as a referee with the United
States Soccer Federation.
Each State Association is asked to submit a candidate; one boy and one girl. These
candidates are then reviewed by officials in each of the four regions, and a Regional
Young Referee of the Year, one boy and one girl each, is chosen. Finally, from the four
boys and four girls regional winners, a boy and girl National Young Referee of the Year is
selected.
Some guidelines used in reviewing the candidates are years of officiating; level of games;
ability, character and identification as a role model for younger children; relationship
with players and adults in the program; and potential for excellence as an adult soccer
referee.
Winners at the state association level are presented with a certificate prepared by U S
YOUTH SOCCER and a Young Referee of the Year pin in honor of their achievement. Regional
winners receive a commemorative plaque bearing the U S YOUTH SOCCER logo.
The two National Young Referees of the Year are invited to attend the SNICKERS U S YOUTH
SOCCER National Championship Finals as guests of U S YOUTH SOCCER.
They are housed in the referee hotel, meet and attend functions with the referee
delegation and are honored at the player luncheon and during Opening Ceremonies. The
National Young Referees of the Year receive a special commemorative plaque from U S YOUTH
SOCCER. |
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Additional information can be
obtained by calling
1-800-4-SOCCER |
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