Culpeper Soccer Association Referees

Initial Certification:

1. The USSF certification is gained by attending a 16-hour training course. All courses are presented and administered by the Metro DC - Virginia State Referee Program.
2. The best certification to seek is Grade 8, which means that you may serve as a referee in youth league games in any USSF-regulated organization (most youth leagues in the US ).
3. A Grade 9 certification is also available (8 hrs training instead of 16), but limits a referee's versatility and may prevent working in some tournaments. Refer to the section " Limitations Referee on Assignments " on the Referee Main page to find restrictions on assignment in CSA league games.
4. There is no age requirement to attend training. To work, you must be 14 years old. In Culpeper, the CSA Board may waive that requirement to 13 years. A formal request by the parent or guardian is required.
5. The Grade 8 course is $65, paid to USSF via the website registration process. Initial uniform and equipment costs are about another $50.
6. In Culpeper, we add an extra training requirement after certification: over-the-shoulder training (shadow training) at 3 actual games. A new referee watches and follows an experienced referee working as the AR (Assistant Referee). Also, a new referee observes (from the sideline) a referee at a U8 game. It's valuable experience and a great opportunity for Q and A. This training is unpaid.
7. To get started, you self-schedule for a training course, also called a clinic. To browse available clinics, go to http://www.vadcsoccerref.com/ and follow the link on the left column for “clinic listing”. Set the course selection to “new referee” and choose either “northern” or “central” regions. Choose a month, then browse the clinic availability. Make sure the “GRADE” column indicates Grade 8!
8. Ready to sign up? You must register with the website first. Click the link for “Online Registration”. You will pay the training fee, provide name and address info, plus create a username and password. Remember your password, you will need it again!
9. Once registered with the site, return to the clinic listings and sign up for a clinic.. Usually you will have to wait 24 hours for the system to process your registration before you can enroll in a clinic. Each clinic will have detailed instructions for locations, hours, and what to expect. Yes, there is a test, and passing the test is required!
10. Because of Culpeper's location, initial certification courses are not routinely offered locally. Expect to travel to Madison , Manassas , Fairfax , Winchester , or Charlottesville

Recertification:        

1. Referees must attend recertification once a year. The “soccer year” begins on July 1st.. Your patch indicates the expiration of your certification: Dec 31 of the year on your patch.
2. Re-certification classes for Grade-8 referees are scheduled for 6 hours, so usually done by mid-afternoon.

Questions about certification?        

•  Contact your CSA referee team (assignor and mentor). Contact info is on the main referee page. Good luck!