For more information on Refereeing and what is involved please go to:

Montana Youth Soccer Referee Center

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Why would ANYONE want to be a referee?

That’s a good question! Here are the answers:

• If you are reading this you probably have kids, so you already know how to referee.
• You will finally know the real laws (soccer has laws not rules, but you knew that) about what actually is offside, and what is
  really called handball.
• You will get to wear those beautiful yellow shirts so coveted by others. Oh, and the very attractive black shorts and striped socks.
• One of the only ways to stay in shape and get paid for it!
• You will have the thrill of having your very own whistle, and get to use it. A lot.
• You will be one of the elite few who can not only signal for a goal kick or a corner kick with those stunning flags, but will know that you could also bring in a large jet if needed.
• Little known fact: Bozeman and Belgrade are a soccer referee mecca. Very few people are lucky enough to both live here and get to referee youth soccer.
• Coaches and parents will have unbelievable respect for you and your split second decisions made on the pitch. (You knew it was the pitch, not the field)
• Youth soccer cannot exist without certified referees. If not you, who? If not now, when? Seriously, start when your kids are young, it is so much easier than waiting until they are 18 and you really can’t run that fast anymore!
• Huge advantage in Bozeman: a lot of very experienced referees that would love to help you out and ensure that you are knowledgeable, capable, and have fun.

Montana Youth Soccer Association requires that each team have a minimum of two certified referees. Why? As in all sports, there are critical shortages of referees. You might actually drive all the way to Missoula or Great Falls and have the games cancelled due to the lack of referees. So how can we fix this? Get certified and get out there! Bozeman literally has the best referee group anywhere. When you decide to become
a referee:

• The class that you take will be taught by the best teaches/trainers/referees in the state, if not the entire region. You will have fun learning the laws of the game, and know what you will need to be successful on the pitch. Knowledge is power!
• Once you have taken the class, you will be assigned games that will never conflict with your kids games. You will never have to be a center referee for your kids’ games, unless of course you want to.
• You will have games with very experienced referees who will help you and encourage you to learn the game.
• Your skill level as a referee will grow up as your kids do.
• As Franklin Roosevelt said “We have nothing to fear, but fear itself.” Sign up and try it out. You have nothing to lose, and you will at the very least learn about the game your kids and family love!