Refereesਰੈਫਰੀ

Welcome to the team! This info is important for all AUSC referees to know before officiating with us this season. Please keep this guide handy for all your matches.

How are games assigned at AUSC?

We want to make it easy for you to get involved and stay connected with your officiating. Here’s how the process works:

1. Get certified. Make sure you’ve completed the BC Soccer referee course that matches the age group you want to officiate.
2. Register online. Once you’re certified, you’ll be added to the AUSC referee group so you can receive game assignments.
3. Update your availability. You’ll get a reminder message each week to update your availability. Make sure to let us know when you’re free.
4. Game offers go out. Game offers are sent out by Wednesday evening each week. You’ll receive them via the AUSC Referees WhatsApp group.
5. Confirm quickly. You have 24 hours to accept or decline the match. If we don’t hear from you in time, the game will be offered to someone else.

Note: All referees must be in good standing and currently registered through BC Soccer. Adults must also have a current Criminal Record Check (CRC). You can check your status by logging in to your RefCentre account. Need help with your CRC? Just reach out to the office and we’ll walk you through it.

Busy weekend ahead? No problem!

If you’re unavailable for certain days or time slots, just block them off in the AUSC referee group. That way we don’t assign you to a game you can’t make.

How we assign games: what we look for

We aim to be fair and consistent. Here’s what helps you get regular game assignments:

• You’re certified, in good standing, and have all necessary requirements complete
• You’re available on a regular basis
• You accept game offers consistently
• You attend our internal referee meetups and clinics
• You’re interested in growing as a referee and moving up the pathway
• You’re reliable, capable and gaining experience with each match

Game attire and equipment checklist

• Referee jerseys (black and yellow)
• Black referee shorts
• Black referee socks (up to under the knee)
• Sport shoes (cleats or turf cleats depending on field type)
• Referee badge
• Whistle (Fox F40 recommended)
• Watch
• Coin
• Cards (yellow and red)
• Notepad and pencil or pen
• Assistant referee flags (if applicable)

Incomplete or abandoned games

If a game can’t continue due to darkness, poor lighting, field conditions or other similar reasons, it should be abandoned. Referee fees will still be paid in full. Important: the referee, not the coaches, has the final say on suspending a game due to weather or unsafe field conditions.

Game procedures

Pregame

• Be on the field at least 20 minutes before kickoff
• Introduce yourself to both coaches and shake hands
• Inspect the field and check for any hazards or missing lines
• Ensure there’s enough time for any corrections to be made
• Confirm that the field is safe and at least minimally marked
• Check all player equipment. NO JEWELRY (taping is not allowed)
• Conduct the coin toss
• Start the match on time

Half time

• Stay hydrated: drink water or a sports drink, even if you’re not thirsty
• Allow teams the designated break period
• Start the second half on schedule