PRO Youth Referee Program
The PRO (Player Referee Organization) program trains young players to become certified referees.
About the Program
PRO provides mentorship and leadership development for youth who want to referee. Young referees gain work experience and community service hours while helping make soccer possible for younger players.
Eligibility
- Minimum age: 10 years old
- Youth referees may officiate games up to two age groups below their own soccer age
For example, a 12U player can referee 8U games but not 10U games. Assignments are made with attention to each referee’s comfort level.
Training Requirements
Youth referees complete the same training courses as adults with these exceptions:
- SafeSport training is not required for youth volunteers
- Background checks and fingerprinting are not required
Each youth volunteer needs their own email address to track their training history.
Training includes:
- 8U Official course (4 hours) or Regional Referee course (8 hours)
- AYSO Safe Haven
- CDC Concussion Awareness
- Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness
Benefits
Youth referees develop:
- Leadership skills
- Quick decision-making under pressure
- Knowledge of soccer rules
- Work experience
Many youth referees continue officiating as they grow, advancing through AYSO certification levels.
How to Join
Contact [email protected] to begin the PRO referee certification process.
Related Pages
- Refereeing Overview — Getting started
- Referee Training — Certification requirements
- Volunteer Roles — Other ways to help
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