Information for Soccer Referees in the United States
Ref Procedures
2008/2009 Guide to Procedures
1252 days
The 2008/2009 Guide to Procedures is now available. Check the Documents page
Changes from the last guide include:
- Updates to the pictures with the new uniform.
- New AR mechanics relating to penalty kicks and the flag.
- Explicitly states that the AR: “Assists the referee in determining whether a goal is scored and whether the goalkeeper has moved illegally” during a PK.
- The “tap the pocket” mechanic is now official:
“If misconduct is observed associated with the foul, makes eye contact with the referee and advises either a yellow card by placing the free hand over the badge on the left jersey pocket or a red card by placing the free hand on a back pocket on the shorts”
2008/2009 Referee Administrative Handbook
1260 days
The latest Referee Administrative Handbook has been released. Check the Documents page.
The biggest change is the establishment of grade 3 referees as “Professional Referees”. The physical fitness test for this level is the FIFA test, and those wishing to referee in MLS, MLS Reserves, or USL-1 must pass this physical fitness test as well.
Lessons Learned and Podcast: MLS 2008 Week 16
1298 days
Here is the lessons learned from Week 16 in MLS, along with the podcast discussing these lessons.
MLS 2008 Week 16 Lessons Learned
MLS 2008 Week 16 Podcast
Memo: Fourth Official Guidelines
1334 days
Memo: Fourth Official Guidelines
In an effort for better communication and understanding in regard to the 4th official and his duties, I am sending these suggestions as a guideline to assist you in dealing with improper behavior with bench personnel.
In short, take these steps:
- Ask
- Tell
- Remove
Memo: Revised AR Flag Mechanics
1361 days
A revision of the AR flag mechanics has been released:
Basically, in two instances, the AR will now hold the flag like this:
The AR will use this signal when:
- The referee has signaled a foul and makes obvious eye contact with the assistant referee for advice on whether the offense occurred inside the penalty area.
- During a penalty kick, the AR indicates that the goalkeeper has moved illegally and, as a result, a goal was not scored.
Podcast: MLS 2008 Week 6
1368 days
A podcast from US Soccer with Director of Referee Development Paul Tamberino and Alfred Kleinaitis, Manager of Referee Development & Education. Click the audio link below to listen.