Questions to Ask

As a referee, you are an Independent Contractor. You may referee in any league or at any tournament that will schedule you in Idaho or throughout the country. If you leave the state to referee, you need permission from the SRA first. If the league or tournament close to you provides you with a great referee environment, serve there. If they do not, serve in a different league or tournament that offers better conditions.  Here is a list of questions  you should ask before you commit...

Before you say "yes" ask...

Safety questions...

1. Is the league or tournament currently sanctioned by US Soccer. If not, refuse to work as it voids your insurance.

2. Is the assignor certified for the current year? If not, refuse to work as it voids your insurance.

3. Are the referees that will be with you all certified? If not, refused to work as it voids your insurance.

4. What is the league or tournament's history in protecting referees? Is there a place away from teams for you to safely go? Are there trained field marshals to handle issues with fans or coaches? How do they handle abusive persons?  Ask other referees for their opinion on this. If in doubt, work for another league or tournament instead.

5. Is there a trainer on site in case you need medical care?

Referee environment questions...

1. Does the league or tournament provide mentoring or referee coaching? This is a huge asset to you and is available to every league or tournament in the state if they choose to pay for this opportunity.

2. What is the compensation per game and how will you be paid?

3. Is there a place out of the sun for you to rest between games?

4. Is water, food, or other benefits provided?

Technical questions...

1. What are the substitution rules for this event?

2. What are the lengths of the halves?

3. If there is a tie, what is the procedure?

4. Are there any special rules such as build out lines, offside rules, etc. in place for this event?