How Can My Child Become a BYSA Referee?

Barrington Youth Soccer Association (BYSA) runs two referee paths, and the right one depends on your child's age and how competitive they want their games to be. Children 11 years old and up can get started. If your child is under 13, or is 13+ but prefers recreational games, register for the BYSA House League Referee Program. If your child is at least 13 and wants more competitive matches, they should pursue US Soccer Certified Referee status through the certification interest form. Questions go to [email protected].

Which referee path fits your child?

The age line matters: BYSA states that referees must be 11 years old and up, and that the US Soccer certification route is for those at least 13. A 13-year-old who only wants to referee rec games still registers through the House League program rather than the certification form.

How to register for the House League Referee Program

1. Confirm your child is at least 11 years old.
2. Go to the BYSA House League Referee Program registration form linked on the BYSA site.
3. Complete and submit the form.
4. Watch for follow-up from BYSA about assignments.

Expected result: your child is registered as a house league referee and eligible to officiate recreational games.

How to pursue US Soccer certification

1. Confirm your child is at least 13 years old and wants more competitive games.
2. Complete the US Soccer Certified Referee certification interest form linked on the BYSA site.
3. Respond to any follow-up from BYSA or the certifying body to finish certification.

Expected result: your child is on the path to becoming a US Soccer Certified Referee and can be considered for competitive matches.

Common sticking points

• Age confusion. The two thresholds (11 and 13) are separate. Being 13+ does not automatically push your child into the certification track — it depends on whether they want competitive games.
• Picking the wrong form. Under-13s and rec-only referees use the House League form; the certification interest form is only for the 13+ competitive path.
• Where to ask. For any inquiries about either program, contact [email protected].

Related BYSA programs worth knowing

Refereeing sits alongside BYSA's other offerings, which may matter if you have more than one child: House League and Mini Kickers registration (Mini Kickers open for YOB 2020–2021; House League and Mini Kickers closed for YOB 2011–2019, with availability inquiries to [email protected]), Travel Team tryouts and schedules through Barrington Soccer Club, and the Adaptive Soccer Program, which is seeking players and buddies.