Referee Game Day Essentials
To ensure a smooth and professional game day experience, referees should arrive prepared with the following:
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Official referee uniform, including
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Referee jersey, black shorts, black socks, and predominantly black shoes
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Current referee badge
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Whistle (a backup is recommended)
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Assistant referee flags, if assigned
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Referee wallet with yellow and red cards
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Pens, pencils, score sheets, or a referee notebook
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Watch or timing device (a backup watch is recommended)
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Alternate jersey colors and extra socks
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Sunscreen and other weather-appropriate gear
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Plenty of water for hydration throughout the da
Being properly equipped helps referees manage matches professionally, maintain accurate records, and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Respect the Referee & the Game
The Respect Our Referees (RoR) Program promotes a positive, safe, and enjoyable soccer environment for everyone involved in the game—players, coaches, spectators, and referees.
The program is designed to reduce verbal abuse, physical abuse, and inappropriate behavior toward referees while encouraging respect and good sportsmanship on and around the field.
Why It Matters
Soccer continues to grow each year, and referees are essential to every match.
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North Texas Soccer trains approximately 3,000 new referees each year.
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More than half of new referees do not return after their first year.
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Most referee attrition occurs among officials aged 12–16.
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Nearly 60% of referees are between the ages of 12 and 16.
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Finding enough referees to cover all matches is becoming increasingly difficult.
The number one reason referees choose not to return is verbal abuse from coaches, spectators, and players.
By showing respect for referees, we help create a better experience for everyone and ensure that our players can continue to enjoy the game.