Have you ever thought about becoming a referee? Youth sports on Long Island are in need of officials, and opportunities are available for new referees to get involved. The continued growth of programs within the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) has created a constant demand for certified soccer referees.
Certification classes will be held throughout Eastern New York in 2026. Once certified, referees and assistant referees are expected to handle nearly 80,000 game assignments during the year. Interest in soccer is also expected to rise even further with the FIFA World Cup being hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026. Eastern New York is actively seeking new referees to serve as both center officials and assistant referees for youth soccer matches. The minimum age to become certified is 14 years old, and referees manage their own availability, allowing officiating to fit around school, work, and other commitments.
For more information on how to become a referee, visit enysreferee.org/how-to-become-a-referee. Questions can also be sent via email to questions@enysreferee.org.
The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association is a nonprofit organization serving more than 100,000 youth players, both boys and girls, and supported by over 25,000 volunteers. ENYYSA’s coverage area stretches from Montauk Point on Long Island to the Canadian border, east of Route 81. The organization promotes the healthy development of players, coaches, referees, and administrators. Soccer opportunities range from intramural to travel and premier programs, including offerings for children with special needs. No child who wants to play soccer is turned away. ENYYSA is a proud member of U.S. Soccer and U.S. Youth Soccer.
Becoming a youth soccer referee offers many benefits, including earning money, staying active, developing leadership skills, learning the game at a deeper level, and meeting great people. It could be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make.