Basic Referee Course
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Regional Referee Badge
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Required for U9 and above
No Prerequisites
Requirements:
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Register for course
Attend course
Sign roster
Pass test
Signed volunteer application
Field clinic (recommended)
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—Agenda —
Basic Referee Course
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*** Opening Remarks (Introductions & Housekeeping) (15 min.) ***
Module 1 Safe Haven Certification (45 min.) [video]
Module 2 The Game of Soccer (15 min.)
Module 3 Pre-game Preparation (15 min.) [video]
Module 4 Starting the Game (15 min.)
Module 5 Stopping Play (15 min.)
Module 6 Restarting Play (90 min.) [video][field][class]
*** Lunch Served (30 min.) ***
Module 7 Fouls (45 min.) [video]
Module 8 Misconduct (15 min.)
Module 9 Offside (45 min.) (Will use The Soccer Tutor)
Module 10 Referee and Assistant Referee Mechanics (30 min.)
Module 11 Post Game (10 min.) [video]
*** Break (5 min. ***
Module 12 Understanding the AYSO Game (25 min.)
*** Basic Referee Test and Review (30 min.) ***
Field Positioning Clinic (30 min.) [field]
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Basic Referee Course Intro
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Introduction—Why Are You Here?
Top 5 Reasons:
 I need the money
 My spouse signed me up
 If I don’t do it my kids can’t play
 I need the service credits (youth referees)
 Because I want to:
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Help kids have a positive sports experience, and
Increase my own self esteem and self confidence.
Whatever your reason for being here
— Why not make it an enjoyable learning experience?
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Safe Haven Certification (Referee)
Module
1
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About AYSO
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A volunteer run soccer organization
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Over 650,000 players
Over 200,000 volunteers
About 60 paid staff
Organized into about 15 Sections, 50
Areas and 1000 Local Regions
Founded in 1964
National office located in Hawthorne, CA
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What is Safe Haven?
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A program developed by AYSO to help our volunteers
protect both
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The kids in our program
And, ourselves
Safe Haven Includes: Rules & Regulations, Polices &
Procedures, Job Descriptions, Certification, Training and
Background Checks.
Certification: Child-specific Safe Haven courses.
Training: Discipline-specific courses e.g. coach, referee
and management training.
Background Checks: conducted by National.
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AYSO Philosophy
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Everyone Plays
Our program goal is for kids to play soccer — so we mandate that every player on
every team must play at least half of every game
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Balanced Teams
Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as possible — because it is fair and
more fun when teams of equal ability play.
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Open Registration
Our program is open to all children between 4 and 19 years of age who want to register
and play soccer. Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing.
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Positive Coaching
Encouragement of player effort provides for greater enjoyment by the players and
ultimately leads to better-skilled and better-motivated players.
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Good Sportsmanship
We strive to create a positive environment based on mutual respect rather than a winat-all-costs attitude, and our program is designed to instill good sportsmanship in every
facet of AYSO.
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Volunteer Responsibilities
& Legal Protections
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Submit a volunteer application form and
agree to follow AYSO job descriptions,
policies, procedures and guidelines.
Volunteers are also required to:
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Complete Safe Haven Certification
Be properly trained
Be authorized to do their job
Good Samaritan Laws
Volunteer Protection Act of 1997
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Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs
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Volunteers are role models.
AYSO National Rules & Regulations
prohibit use.
Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 does
not provide protection for criminal acts.
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Supervision Policies
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Recommended supervision ratios:
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One adult per 8 or fewer children (1:8)
At least 2 adults present at all times.
At least 1 adult of the same gender.
Volunteers should never be alone with
children.
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Types of Abuse
Widely Recognized
 Emotional
 Physical
 Sexual
Newly Recognized
 Neglect
 Ethical
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Prevent False Accusations
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Avoid being alone with a child.
Stay within sight of others.
Respect privacy.
Hug only from the side.
Avoid sexual jokes, comments or
gestures.
Do not use corporal punishment.
Set and respect boundaries.
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AYSO Touching Policy
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Some forms of touching are acceptable.
In response to child’s not adult’s needs.
Touch only with child’s permission.
Resistance must be respected.
Avoid private areas.
Never touch a child in private.
Touching must be brief in duration.
Factors change with age and gender.
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Blood-Borne Diseases
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Possibility of contracting a blood-borne
disease is minimal.
Precautions must be taken.
AYSO guidelines are clear.
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Cannot play if bleeding
Must properly cover wounds
Must disinfect clothing
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Risk Management
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Volunteers must act to avoid risk.
Consider environmental conditions
Repair or avoid physical surroundings
Act to prevent injury
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REVIEW
AYSO Team Concept
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The “Team” must work together to protect the
kids and to provide them with a proper
environment for development.
A team is only as strong as its weakest link.
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Making a Safe Haven
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If you:
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Learn your job
Follow the rules & regulations
Report and follow up on problems
Use common sense
You will create a Safe Haven for
yourself and for our children.
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Conclusion — Part I
This Concludes Part I of
Safe Haven Certification
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Please Complete the
Safe Haven Certification Test
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The Game of Soccer
Module
2
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Welcome to the Game of Soccer
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Soccer is a game played by two opposing teams,
in two halves of equal time, with a spherical ball,
on a rectangular field with a goal at each end.
The object of the game is to get the ball entirely
over your opponents’ goal line and inside their
goal, without using your hands or arms.
After the kick-off, play is continuous until:
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The ball entirely leaves the field, or
The referee blows the whistle.
Play is restarted fairly based on why it stopped.
The referee’s job is to keep the game
— SAFE, FAIR and FUN for everyone.
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History of the Game
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Known as “Association Football”
Historical Roots — Kicking an “object”
from one goal to another goal.
Modern Game — LOTG written in 1863
at a meeting in Fleet Street, London.
FIFA was created in Paris in 1904 and
moved to Zurich in 1974.
AYSO complies with FIFA Laws.
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Spirit of the Game
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Over-riding philosophy — “Spirit of Fair Play”
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If ball leaves the field, the other team gets to restart
(throw-in, goal kick or corner kick).
For infringements of the Law opponents receive a free kick
(DFK, IFK or PK).
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Game should be FAIR, FUN and SAFE.
Referee has full authority to enforce the LOTG
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In the extreme, but only if necessary a caution or send-off.
Stop, suspend, or terminate, at his/her discretion.
Referee’s degree of discretion is fundamental and unique.
Game is meant to flow continuously
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Played with as little interference as possible,
Stops only if ball completely leaves the field, or
Referee blows the whistle
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Spirit of the Game (Rules & Regs)
National Rules & Regulations
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“The Laws of the Game are intended to
provide that games should be played with as
little interference as possible, and in this
view it is the duty of the referee to penalize
only deliberate breaches of the Law”.
“Constant whistling for trifling and
doubtful breaches produces bad feelings
and loss of temper on the part of the players
and spoils the pleasure of spectators”.
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Philosophy of Refereeing
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Be a friendly “aunt or uncle” not a
policeman.
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Maintain a fun learning environment.
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Know, understand and apply the rules.
— Use common sense —
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You must see an infraction to punish it.
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The need to caution or send-off a young
player is extremely rare and can usually
be avoided.
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Small-sided Play
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Smaller fields mean more games.
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More touches on the ball.
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Faster skill development.
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Must check local rules
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Number of players
Field sizes and markings
Special rules
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Dealing with Young Players
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U-6/8 Program — A taste of the game
Positive sports experience – Teamwork – Basic skills
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U-6 — Early stages of development
Exciting new experience – Just another way to play
Can’t sit still – Love praise & attention – Love stories
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U-8 — Increased coordination & strength
Show both enthusiasm & frustration
More competitive, sometimes overwhelmed
Solve problems – Balance on one foot – Self concept
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Positive Coaching is Essential
Positive – Instructional – Encouraging
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Age Specific Issues
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U-6
Very simple rules — just fun
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U-8
Simple rules — start learning game
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U-10
The whole game — control parents
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U-12
Skills better — parents better
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U-14
Hormones kick in — control is key
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U-16
Better be in shape — fouls galore
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U-19
A little easier — if you can keep up
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Review
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Soccer is a game with a long & interesting history.
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Underlying “Spirit of the Game” is Fairness.
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AYSO is based on five key philosophies.
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We want a SAFE, FAIR and FUN environment.
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No Tobacco or Alcohol permitted.
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“AYSO Team” must work together for the kids.
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Referee should be a “Friendly Authority.”
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Referee must understand and adjust to age
differences.
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Confirmation
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What are the 3 elements of positive coaching?
A coach may smoke if the players cannot see it?
If a member of the AYSO Team does not support
the team who gets hurt?
In which city were the LOTG first written?
The main focus of the “Spirit of the Game” is?
Should referees act like
Dirty Harry or Mr. Rogers?
A young player who misbehaves must be publicly
disciplined as an example?
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Wrap-up
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Each game is a learning opportunity
for the players, coaches, parents and
referees. Take advantage of it.
…... Applause
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Pre-game Preparation
Module
3
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Referee Pre-game Checklist
Arrive:
Bring:
Referees:
Coaches:
Field:
Players:
Ball:
Start:
¼-½ hour early, properly dressed, warm-up,
smile, be prepared to have FUN.
Uniform, badge, coin, whistle, flags, Law book,
Nat’l. Rules & Regs, watch, pencil, pad, shoes.
Shake hands, review responsibilities.
Shake hands, get game cards, #subs. (AYSO Team)
Check goal posts, nets, holes, water, mud, debris,
sprinkler heads, lines, coaches’ area, corner flags.
Check for: safe shoes, shinguards, socks, jewelry,
uniform colors, goalkeeper colors, hats,
shoes tied properly, shirts tucked in.
Obtain and inspect the game ball.
Conduct coin toss.
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Field Issues
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AYSO fields may not be
perfect.
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Use common sense
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goal posts, nets, corner
flags, lines, coaches’ area,
holes, water, mud, debris,
sprinkler heads.
play the game if it’s safe.
The coaches’ area is an important aid in
reducing sideline problems.
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Coaches’ Area exists even if not marked
Mark one if necessary (use cones or bags)
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Ball Issues
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The referee is responsible for securing
and approving a safe ball for the match
Must not be either too hard or too soft.
Regional policies concerning the game
ball vary.*
* Several options, including getting the best ball available
from the home team or retrieving a game ball from a
specified location, are listed on page 20 of the Ready, Set,
Ref! workbook.
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Ball Check List
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Size – see lineup card or AYSO LOTG.
Condition – smooth, no loose panels, most
colors are okay.
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Pressure – depress ¼ inch.
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Shape – rotates evenly when tossed.
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Backup – may need a backup ball.
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It is the referee’s duty to determine whether
the ball is proper for the match.
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Uniform & Safety Issues
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Players must have required equipment
(shirt, shorts, stockings, shinguards and shoes).
All players on a team, except the goalkeeper,
should have the same uniforms.
Teams and goalkeepers must be reasonably
distinguishable from each other.
Allowed: Prescription glasses, medical alert
bracelets and knee braces, unless they are
clearly unsafe.
Not allowed: Jewelry, casts or splints, hats
with hard bills. Nothing dangerous is allowed.
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Confirmation
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What do you need to bring to the field?
What would you do if a child says that a
soft friendship bracelet cannot be
removed?
What would you do if a player is
wearing a cast that is wrapped in ½”
closed-cell, slow-recovery foam with no
hard edges showing?
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Confirmation
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Why play small-sided games?
Why is the coaches’ area required by
AYSO?
What is the most important thing to
consider when approving a field for
play?
Which is worse, a ball that is too hard,
or a ball that is too soft?
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Wrap-up
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A referee who comes to the field on
time, prepared and with a positive
attitude, has a much better chance of
enjoying the experience.
…... Applause
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Starting the Game
Module
4
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Coin Toss
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Don’t forget to bring a coin!
Visiting team gets to make the call.
Winner chooses which end to attack first.
Loser kicks off to start game.
At the start of the 2nd half
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Teams switch ends of the field.
Team that didn’t kick off to start the game, kicks off
to start the 2nd half.
Kick off is in the same direction as the 1st half.
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Players and Substitutes
* Check local rules for team sizes and minimum playing times.
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In full-sided games each team must have at
least 7 and no more than 11 players.
AYSO U-6 — 3 v 3 and 5 players per team. *
On the lineup card
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Mark any players who are missing or unable to
play, and any who later become injured.
Mark substitutes on the lineup card.
Count players on field before the kick-off.
Notify coach if any player is playing less than
the minimum playing time.* Report if not corrected.
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The Kick-off
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Ball stationary and all
players in their own half.
Receiving players outside
the center circle.
Referee checks positions
then signals start. (whistle)
Ball must be kicked forward.
Ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward.
If not taken correctly, the kick-off is retaken.
Kicker may not touch the ball again until it touches another
player. (IFK awarded to opponents)
A goal can be scored directly from a kick-off.
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Keeping Time
* Check local competition rules
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Referee is the official timekeeper.
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The game is played in two halves of equal time.
—See times on the lineup card.
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Time runs continuously except for substitutions
and half-time.*
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Referee allows substitutions approximately
midway through each half.
—Usually play is already stopped.
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Referee may add time lost by excessive time
wasting, injuries, or unavoidable occurrences.*
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Confirmation
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Who kicks off to start the game?
Are substitutes players?
Can a goal be scored directly from a
kick-off?
When is the clock stopped?
When is the game over?
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Wrap-up
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The best way to start a game is
— On time !
…... Applause
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Stopping Play
Module
5
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Ball In/Out of Play
Restarts are covered later
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Lines are part of the
areas they enclose.
Touch lines and goal
lines are part of the
field. (Boundary lines)
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Ball is out of play when it wholly crosses a touch
line or a goal line, on the ground or in the air.
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Only D is out of play.
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The ball’s position determines whether it is in or
out of play, not the player’s position.
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Goal Scored
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Goal lines are part of
the field.
The ball’s position
determines if it is a
goal, not the
goalkeeper’s position.
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A goal is scored when the ball wholly crosses
the goal line, on the ground or in the air, under
the crossbar and between the goalposts.
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Only D is a goal.
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Injury or Outside Interference
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Take immediate action. (Use common sense)
Injury Prevention
- Be safety conscious
- Correct problems
- Modify activity or rules
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- Move location
- Cancel if necessary
- Report problems
Bleeding Player
Must leave field until bleeding is stopped, wound is
covered and any blood on clothing is disinfected.
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Outside Interference
Stop if it is unsafe, unfair, or unsporting behavior.
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Substitutions
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Made at approximately the middle of each
half, at half-time, or for injuries.
Try to stop when ball is out of play.
Mark substitutes on the lineup card.
Inform coach if a player is not playing the
minimum time. (Report if not corrected)
Substitutions should be made as quickly
as possible.
Restart based on why play was stopped.
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End of Half or Game
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Referee signals the end of each half when
regulation time and any stoppage time for
that half has expired.
The half or game ends when the referee
decides that time has expired.
Stoppage time should be added only for
unusual delays, e.g. a serious injury,
excessive time wasting, or a long delay
caused by outside interference.
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Fouls or Misconduct
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Referee blows the whistle to stop play if a foul
or misconduct occurs.
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Fouls must be against an opponent, on the
field of play, while the ball is in play.
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The referee may chose to wait until the ball is
out of play to penalize misconduct.
In the lower divisions the primary consideration
for stopping play to award a free kick is
whether the act caused danger to or lessened
the enjoyment of any of the participants.
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Confirmation
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When should the referee stop the game
for an apparent injury?
When is the ball out of play?
What is the difference between a foul
and misconduct?
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Wrap-up
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The game is meant to be played with
as little interference as possible.
When stopping a game use common
sense and consider the age and
experience of the players.
…... Applause
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Restarting Play
Module
6
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Fairness of Restarts
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When the ball leaves the field of play it
is put back in play by the team that did
not touch it last.
When a player commits a foul an
opponent puts the ball back in play.
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General Rules for Restarts
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Restarts are to be made without any
interference or distraction by opponents.
Opponents must stay a safe distance away.
Player taking the restart may not touch the
ball again until it touches another player.
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A free kick is awarded to opponents.
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Overview of Restarts
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The Kick-off
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Ball is stationary and all
players are in their own half.
Opposing players must be
outside the center circle.
Referee checks positions
then signals start. (whistle)
Ball must be kicked forward.
Ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward.
If not taken correctly, the kick-off is retaken.
Kicker may not touch the ball again until it touches another
player. (IFK is awarded to opponents)
A goal can be scored directly from a kick-off.
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Throw-in
Taken when ball goes over the touch-line.
(All general restart rules apply)
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Thrower must —
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Face the field of play
Have part of each foot —
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Touching the ground, and
On or behind the touchline
Must use both hands to throw the ball from behind
and over the head.
Ball is in play when released and any portion
is on or over the outside edge of the touch
line.
A goal may not be scored from a throw-in.
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Goal Kick
Taken when ball goes over goal line last touched by attacking team.
(All general restart rules apply)
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Taken from anywhere
in the goal area.
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Lines are part of the
area they enclose.
Opponents must move out of penalty area.
Ball is in play when it leaves penalty area.
A goal may be scored directly, but only against
opponents.
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Corner Kick
Taken when ball goes over goal line last touched by defending team.
(All general restart rules apply)
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Ball is placed in the corner
area on the side where it
left the field.
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Lines are part of the area.
Only E is incorrect
Player cannot move flag
Ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
Can score directly into opponents goal.
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Free Kick
(All general restart rules apply)
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Direct (DFK) or Indirect (IFK)
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IFK – Cannot score until the ball touches
another player. Referee should hold arm up.
Only DFK in AYSO recommended rules.
Taken from the place where the infringement
occurred.
Opponents must be at least 10 yards* from
the ball. (* Subject to small-sided & goal area issues.)
Ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.
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Penalty Kick
Taken when a DFK foul is committed by a defender in their own penalty area.
(All general restart rules apply)
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All players except GK
and kicker must be:
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Behind the ball
Outside penalty area
At least 10 yards from
ball (outside arc)
Only A & B are in correct positions.
Goalkeeper may move laterally along goal line.
Referee signals (whistle) when players are ready.
Retaken if not taken correctly. (Spirit of Fairness)
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Dropped Ball
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
When play is stopped by the referee for an
unusual reason, e.g an injury or outside
interference, the game is restarted with a
“dropped ball.”
The ball is dropped by the referee where it
was when play stopped, but never in the
goal area.
The ball is in play when it hits the ground.
Drop it from about the player’s waist height.
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Confirmation




What are the general rules for restarts?
Where is a free kick taken?
Where is a “dropped ball” taken? A
player is taking a DFK from inside the
goal area, when is the ball in play?
If a penal foul is not too bad should the
referee award an IFK?
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Wrap-up

When you stop play it is a really good
idea to know how to restart it!
…... Applause
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Fouls
Module
7
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Fouls—Defined

Foul–Any unfair or unsafe act committed





By a player
Against an opponent (or the opposing team)
On the field of play
While the ball is in play
Fouls are penalized by the awarding of a free kick
to the opposing team at the place where the foul
occurred. *
* This symbol is used throughout this presentation to indicate
special circumstances as described later.
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Types of Fouls

10 Penal Fouls



Punished with a direct free kick (DFK) or,
Penalty kick (PK) if the foul is committed by a
team inside its own penalty area.
8 Non-penal Fouls

Punished with an indirect free kick (IFK)*.
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Penal Fouls—General

Some actions are penal fouls only if they are
committed in a manner that the referee considers
to be careless, reckless, or involving excessive
force. (C-REF)





Careless: Did not exercise due caution
Reckless: Unnatural movement to intimidate or gain an unfair
advantage
Excessive Force: Far exceeded necessary force
On the other hand, the mere attempt to commit
certain actions are penal fouls.
Penal fouls are punished with a DFK taken from
where the offense occurred (or a PK if the foul occurs
inside the offending player’s penalty area).
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The 10 Penal Fouls
6 Require C-REF
---------------------------Kicking an opponent **
Tripping an opponent **
Striking an opponent **
Jumping At an opponent
Pushing an opponent
Charging an opponent
4 Do Not Require C-REF
-----------------------------------------Tackling an opponent before the ball
Holding an opponent
Handling the ball (deliberately)
Spitting at an opponent
** Attempt is a Foul
Restart: Direct Free Kick (DFK) or Penalty Kick (PK)
C-REF = Careless, Reckless, or Excessive Force
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Kicking [Penal]

A player kicking or attempting to kick an
opponent, in a C-REF manner, has committed a
penal foul.

The foul is considered to have occurred at the
place where contact occurred, or would have
occurred.

If the kicker makes no attempt to play the ball, but
deliberately kicks an opponent the action should be
considered violent conduct, and the kicker should be
sent off and shown the red card.
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Tripping [Penal]

Tripping or attempting to trip is an offense if it is
clearly directed at an opponent and causes the
opponent to falter or fall.

Referees must carefully distinguish between an
act of tripping and the fact of being tripped.



Tripping is not a foul.
Tripping an opponent in a C-REF manner is a foul.
The foul is considered to have occurred at the
place where contact occurred, or would have
occurred, not where the opponent lands.
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Striking [Penal]

A player striking or attempting to strike an opponent
in a C-REF manner, has committed a penal foul.

The foul is considered to have occurred at the
place where contact occurred, or would have
occurred.

Striking includes the use of any object (including
the ball) as well as the hands, arms, or head.

Striking may also be misconduct, either serious foul play
or violent conduct.
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Jumping At [Penal]

A player who jumps at an opponent in a C-REF
manner, has committed a penal foul.

The foul is considered to have occurred at the
place where contact occurred, or would have
occurred.

If the jump was made in the process of playing
the ball, then the player should not be penalized,
unless in the opinion of the referee, the jump
was made in a C-REF manner.
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Pushing [Penal]

A player pushing an opponent, in a C-REF
manner, has committed a penal foul.

Pushing an opponent in a C-REF manner with
any part of the body, whether playing the ball or
not, is a penal foul.

Fairly charging an opponent while playing the ball, or
in playing distance of the ball and able to play it, is
allowed. (see “Charging”)
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Charging—Defined

Charging is defined as making contact with
an opponent in an effort to move the
opponent away from the ball.

A fair charge is made with the shoulder or
upper arm as near to shoulder to the
opponent’s shoulder as possible, in a
staccato manner.
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Charging [Penal]

Charging an opponent, in a C-REF manner, is a
penal foul.

Contact may also be made on the shoulder blade
of the opponent but only if the opponent is fairly
obstructing.

Fairly charging an opponent while not in playing
distance of the ball is penalized by an IFK.

It is a violation of the Law to fairly charge an opponent
who is already being fairly charged by another player.
( A “Sandwich” is considered holding)
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Tackling [Penal]
Tackling means using your feet to move the ball away from the feet of an
opponent. It is usually fair play.

Tackling an opponent, making contact with the
opponent before touching the ball, is a penal foul.

Touching the ball first does not necessarily mean
that a foul was not committed. If the tackle is
performed in a C-REF manner, one of the other
penal fouls will most likely have been committed.

Tackling from behind can cause serious injury
and, if it is done in a C-REF manner, should also
be punished as serious foul play.
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Holding [Penal]

Holding an opponent includes the act of
stretching the arms out to prevent an opponent
from moving past or around, and is a penal foul.

A player who blatantly holds onto and pulls an
opponent’s clothing should also be cautioned, and
shown the yellow card.
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Handling [Penal]


Handling the ball involves deliberate contact with the
ball by a player’s hand, or arm.
Deliberate contact means any one of the following:
The player could have avoided the touch but didn’t.
 The player’s arms were not in normal playing position.
 The player deliberately continued an initially accidental
contact in an attempt to gain an unfair advantage.



Moving hands or arms instinctively to protect the
body when suddenly faced with a fast approaching
ball does not constitute deliberate contact unless
there is subsequent action to direct the ball.
The fact that a player may benefit from the ball contacting
the hand does not make an accidental event a foul.
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Spitting [Penal]

Spitting at an opponent, on the field of play,
while the ball is in play is a penal foul.

The foul is considered to have occurred at the
place where contact with the opponent
occurred, or would have occurred.

Spitting at an opponent, or anyone else is also a
sending-off (red card) offense.
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Non-Penal Fouls - General

Non-penal fouls are divided into two categories:
Those committed only by a goalkeeper, and
 Those committed by any player.




The goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the
ball by touching it with any part of his hand or arms.
Possession of the ball includes the goalkeeper
deliberately parrying the ball, but does not include
the circumstances where, in the opinion of the
referee, the ball rebounds accidentally from the
goalkeeper, for example after he makes a save.
Non-penal fouls are punished with an IFK taken from
where the offense occurred. *
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The 8 Non-Penal Fouls (Summary)
By a Goalkeeper
By Another Player
• Controls ball with hands for
more than 6 seconds.
• Plays in a dangerous manner.
• Handles ball directly from
a teammate’s throw-in
• Handles ball deliberately
kicked to him by a teammate.
• Handles ball a 2nd time after
releasing control of it.
• Impedes the progress of an
opponent.
• Prevents the goalkeeper from
releasing the ball.
• Any other offense not mentioned
in the Laws where play is
stopped to issue a caution or to
send off a player.
Restart: Indirect Free Kick (IFK) from where the foul occurred.
*.
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[Non-penal]
Goalkeeper Six Second Violation

A GK controlling the ball with the hands for more
than 6 seconds commits a non-penal foul.

The 6 seconds does not include the time it takes
the GK to take control of the ball or to recover
from momentum.

If the GK is making a reasonable effort to release
the ball into play, the referee should give him the
benefit of the doubt.

Releasing the ball into play means no longer
controlling it with the hands.
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[Non-penal]
Goalkeeper Handles Throw-in

It is a non-penal foul if the goalkeeper
handles the ball inside his own penalty area
after it has been thrown in by a teammate
and has not touched another player.

The goalkeeper may handle a ball directly
thrown to him by an opponent.
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[Non-penal]
GK Handles Ball Kicked by Teammate



It is a non-penal foul if a goalkeeper touches the
ball with his hands inside his own penalty area,
after it has been deliberately kicked, by a
teammate, to him or to a place where he can
legally handle it.
“Deliberately kicked” does not include situations
where, in the opinion of the referee, the ball has
been accidentally deflected, or misdirected.
The IFK is taken from the place where the
goalkeeper touches the ball with his hands.*
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[Non-penal]
GK 2nd Touch

It is a non-penal foul if the goalkeeper touches
the ball with his hands after he has released it
from his hands, and it has not yet touched:
An opponent anywhere on the field or
 A teammate outside their penalty area.


When a goalkeeper releases the ball into play
from her hands she may continue to play the
ball as long as she does not touch it with her
hands again until it has been touched as
described above.
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[Non-penal]
Dangerous Play
Dangerous play is the non-penal foul most often seen in youth games.

If, in the opinion of the referee, a player acts in a
manner that is dangerous to himself or anyone
else, and that action causes a nearby opponent
to cease playing the ball or to be otherwise
disadvantaged, then that player is “playing in a
dangerous manner,” and has committed a nonpenal foul.

If, in a game involving very young players, a
dangerous situation occurs, the referee may stop
play to eliminate the danger, even if an opponent
is not nearby. In this case, the game would be
restated with a dropped ball (DB).
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[Non-penal]
Impeding an Opponent
Impeding means moving on the field so as to obstruct, interfere
with, or block the path of an opponent.

Impeding the progress of an opponent is a nonpenal foul.

This offense requires that the ball is not within
playing distance or not capable of being played.

Physical contact between the player and the
opponent is normally absent.
There are many occasions during a game when a
player will come between an opponent and the ball,
but in a majority of such instances, this is quite
natural and fair.

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[Non-penal]
Preventing GK from Releasing Ball

It is a non-penal foul for a player to prevent
an opposing goalkeeper from releasing the
ball into play from his hands.

A verbal warning may be more fair than an IFK.
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[Non-penal]
Other Offenses




A player who charges an opponent in an
otherwise legal manner, but away from the ball,
is penalized with an IFK. If the charge was
made in a C-REF manner, the penalty would be
a DFK, or PK.
When the goalkeeper does not have possession
of the ball (in his hands) he may be fairly
charged like any other player.
However, when he has possession of the ball (in
his hands), he may not be charged.
Any other offense, not mentioned in Law 12, for
which play is stopped to caution or send off a player,
is penalized with an IFK.
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Confirmation





A foul is penal or non-penal based on
how bad it is?
At the taking of a free kick when is the
ball in play?
For which penal fouls is the attempt
itself a foul?
Is “high-kicking” dangerous play?
What are the 4 most common penal
fouls in younger players’ games?
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Wrap-up

Each game is a learning opportunity
for the players, coaches, parents and
referees.

On-going education will increase
understanding, build confidence and
earn respect.

Any questions?
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Misconduct
Module
8
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Types of Misconduct

7 Cautionable Offenses


Show Yellow Card
7 Sending-off Offenses

Show Red Card
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Cautionable Offenses

7 Cautionable Offenses







Unsporting behavior
Dissent by word or action
Persistent infringement
Delay restart
Fail to respect distance on restart
Enter field without permission
Leave field without permission
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Sending-off Offences

7 Sending-off Offences







Serious foul play
Violent conduct
Spits at opponent or anyone else
Denies OGSO by handling the ball
Denies OGSO to an opponent moving
toward the goal by committing a foul
Offensive, insulting or abusive language
and/or gestures
A second caution in the same game
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Offside
Module
9
Use of The Soccer Tutor™ to teach offside is recommended.
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Offside Defined
Module 11


Player is in the wrong place, at the wrong
time, and it makes a difference.
Wrong Place




Wrong Time


Ahead of the ball
Ahead of the 2nd last defender
Not in own half of the field
When the ball is played by or touches a teammate
It Makes a Difference (Involved in active play)



Interferes with play
Interferes with an opponent
Gains an advantage
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Active Play

Interferes with play


Interferes with an opponent


Touches or is touched by the ball
Prevents an opponent from playing or being able to
play the ball by clearly obstructing opponent's line of
vision or movement, or by making a gesture or
movement which, in the opinion of the referee,
deceives or distracts an opponent.
Gains an advantage

Plays a ball that rebounds off a post, crossbar or
opponent.
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Offside—Examples 1
Module 11

Clearly Offside


In offside position when ball
played by teammate
Interfered with play
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
Clearly Offside


In offside position when ball
played by teammate
Interfered with play
105
Offside—Examples 2
Module 11

Not Offside

B was not in an offside
position when his
teammate played the
ball.
Basic Referee 7/22/05

Not Offside

B was in an offside
position when his
teammate played the
ball, but was not
involved in active play.
106
Offside—Examples 3
Module 11

Offside

B was in an offside
position when
teammate A played the
ball, and then interfered
with play.
Basic Referee 7/22/05

Not Offside

B was not in an offside
position when
teammate A played the
ball.
107
Confirmation






What 3 conditions must exist for you to
correctly signal an offside infraction?
What 3 conditions must exist for a player
to be in an offside position?
What 3 actions are considered as
“being involved in active play”?
How does the referee signal offside?
How does the AR signal offside?
Who makes the final decision?
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Wrap-up

Each game is a learning opportunity
for the players, coaches, parents and
referees.

On-going education will increase
understanding, build confidence and
earn respect.

Any questions?
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Referee and Assistant Referee Mechanics
Module
10
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110
Referee Duties




Enforce Laws of the Game
Ensure ball & players’ equipment meet standards
Act as timekeeper & keep record of match
Control match in cooperation with ARs








Control Substitution
Stop, suspend or terminate match for cause
Stop play when necessary for injury
Restart match after it has stopped
Apply advantage when appropriate
Punish most serious if multiple offences
Keep match SAFE, FAIR & FUN
Referee’s decisions on facts are final.
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System of Control

Diagonal system of control


Center referee (CR) and two assistant
referees (AR)
Only FIFA, USSF and AYSO approved
system of control
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Referee Mechanics

Run along a broad diagonal



Control Play






Stay close to play (10-20 yards)
Keep ball between self and AR
Use whistle to start play (only when necessary)
Use whistle to stop play
Use hand signals to indicate restart
Use cards to indicate misconduct
Use voice to provide positive instruction
Accept advice from your AR (when appropriate)
- must remember to check AR frequently -


Don’t be afraid to correct mistakes
Sell your calls!!!
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Referee Mechanics
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114
Referee Signals
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115
Assistant Referee Duties

Indicate ball in/out of play
(over both touch line and goal line)

Offside (including involvement in active play)

Fouls or misconduct CR cannot see

Keep track of substitutions

Assist CR with sideline behavior

Assist CR in any other way requested
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Assistant Referee Mechanics

Runs along touch line between goal line and
halfway line.








Stays in-line with 2nd last defender.
Follows ball to goal line.
Keeps flag straight down when running.
Stops before signaling, and then snaps flag.
Doesn’t “chat” with coaches and spectators.
Keeps coaches and spectators off touch line.
Checks substitutes and counts players on the
field (or subs).
Looks and acts involved and professional.
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Assistant Referee Signals
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118
Club Linesman

Signal when the whole ball has
completely crossed the touch line.

Any other tasks assigned by referee.





Remove debris
Check nets
Locate game ball(s)
Collect lineup card(s)
Referee must communicate to keep
them focused.
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Confirmation

If a coach feels that a referee isn’t calling
obvious fouls he should appeal the result
of the game?

If both sides of the field are yelling foul, but
neither the referee nor the AR saw a foul,
the referee should call a foul?

When should a referee blow the whistle?

Referees should never change their
decisions because they will lose face?
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Confirmation—AR Signals
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121
Wrap-up

Each game is a learning opportunity
for the players, coaches, parents and
referees.

On-going education will increase
understanding, build confidence and
earn respect.

Any questions?
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Post Game
Module
11
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123
Collect the Ball


Referee is responsible for making
sure that the game ball is returned to
the proper person or place.
The official closest to the ball should
retrieve and return it to proper person
or place or to the referee.
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Supervise Post Game Ceremony



Officials should supervise the team
handshake and any other normal post
game ceremony.
Players may need to be encouraged to
show good sportsmanship at this time.
Officials must continue to act as good
role models.
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Complete Game Report




Referee should complete the lineup
card and any other required reports.
Make sure all officials concur on the
score.
Be sure to report any safety issues
and any sideline problems accurately
and in detail.
Deliver report to the appropriate
person or place.
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Conduct Post Game Conference


Referee should conduct a post game
conference with any assistants.
This is the best time for positive
feedback in both directions.
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Confirmation


Teams always take care of their
game ball?
Why bother sending in a report,
nobody reads them anyway?
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Wrap-up

On-going education will increase
understanding, build confidence and
earn respect.
…... Applause
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Understanding the AYSO Game
Module
12
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—Agenda —
Understanding the AYSO Game
Module 13









Age Specific Matches
AYSO Coaching Philosophy
Outside Factors
Spirit of the Game
AYSO Team
Referee Support
Mentoring
Continuing Education
AYSO National Referee Program
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Age Specific Matches

U-6
Very simple rules — just fun

U-8
Simple rules — start learning game

U-10
The whole game — control parents

U-12
Skills better — parents better

U-14
Hormones kick in — control is key

U-16
Better be in shape — fouls galore

U-19
A little easier — if you can keep up
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AYSO Coaching Philosophy

AYSO Coaches Believe in the AYSO
Philosophies:






Everyone Plays
Balanced Teams
Open Registration
Positive Coaching
Good Sportsmanship
Coaches are on the foundation of the
“AYSO Team”
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Outside Factors

Factors which can effect the game





Spectators
Coaches
Substitutes
Environment
Referee’s attitude and competence
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REVIEW
AYSO Team Concept


The “Team” must work together to protect the
kids and to provide them with a proper
environment for development.
A team is only as strong as its weakest link.
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135
REVIEW
Spirit of the Game

Game is meant to flow continuously




Over-riding philosophy — “Spirit of Fair Play”





Other team restarts if ball leaves the field
Free-kick for infringements of the Law
Caution or Send-off only in the extreme
Referee has full authority to enforce the LOTG


Played with as little interference as possible
Stops only if ball completely leaves the field, or
Referee blows his/her whistle
Stop, suspend, or terminate, at his/her discretion.
Degree of discretion is fundamental and unique
to soccer.
Game should be FAIR, FUN and SAFE.
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Referee Support

Mentoring

Assessing








Appearance
Pre-game Instructions
Fitness
Attitude
Courage, Character & Consistency
Accuracy of Decisions
Control
Continuing Education
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Mentoring

Friendly way to impart knowledge

On-the-job training

Evaluate what you hear

Ask your support chain if you question
the advice, don’t be confrontational

Keep an open mind

Seek on-going training
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Continuing Education

Attend formal training.

Attend referee meetings.

Read your manuals.

Look on the Internet.

Ask experienced referees.

Ask your Director of Instruction or your
instructors, and check websites.


www.ayso85.org
www.ayso11L.org
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AYSO National Referee Program

Organization



NBOD, Section, Area, Region
NSTC – Paid support staff (www.soccer.org)
AYSO Referee Grades






U-8 Official
Assistant Referee
Basic Referee (Regional)
Intermediate Referee (Area)
Advanced Referee (Section)
National Referee (National 1 or National 2)
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Confirmation

Rules are rules at any age?

What are the 5 AYSO Philosophies?



The referees’ job is to keep the game
SAFE, FAIR and ______ ?
The coach is my enemy so I need to
show him who is boss?
Once I pass this course I’m a referee
and that’s all the training I need?
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Wrap-up

Each game is a learning opportunity
for the players, coaches, parents and
referees.

On-going education will increase
understanding, build confidence and
earn respect.

Any questions?
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Test & Review — Basic Referee

Be sure to print your name clearly on
the form.

Test (20 min.)

Review Test (10 min.)

Graduation
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