Referee Abuse Policy

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Referee Abuse

US Soccer is the main body for setting standards in soccer and refereeing across the county. Many youth sports leagues, AYSO included, follow the Laws of the Game and polices set fourth by US Soccer.

U.S. Soccer is standing firm to protect referees and restore respect to the game. The updated policy includes stronger sanctions for any form of physical or non-physical abuse towards referees. We encourage every player and coach to learn what behaviors cross the line, so they can avoid penalties and help create a better culture for the future of soccer.

Effect March 22, 2025, AYSO in acted the Referee Abuse Policy that US Soccer has established. AYSO Reference Book Chapter 2 Section E outlines that AYSO will follow US Soccer
POLICY 531-9 / YOUTH & AMATEUR REFEREE ABUSE PREVENTION.

Any discipline that is given will be tracked through a Nation wide database. So if someone is given a suspension or Lifetime ban in AYSO it will be throughout all organizations that follow US Soccer´s policies.

Click the following link for a video of the abuse program
US Soccer Referee Abuse

Youth Referee

We have youth referees in our region as do the other regions. All youth referees will be wearing a green referee shirt. These youth referees are players in our region and are learning to have a better understanding of the game as most of our coaches. Do not confront or say anything to youth referees, if you have a concern let a Board Member or an adult referee know (adults will be wearing a yellow referee shirt.) Referee abuse will NOT be tolerated! All referees are doing a tough job. Let's remember to be respectful of their calls -good or bad- and not get caught up in debating decisions.