For every game of soccer, three teams are needed: the two teams on the field, and the team of referees who apply the Laws of the Game, maintain fairness and safety, and help create an enjoyable experience for all players and coaches.
Becoming a referee offers many benefits:
Improve your game knowledge: Refereeing gives you a deeper understanding of the Laws of the Game, which enhances your enjoyment whether you’re a player, coach, or fan.
Stay active and fit: Referees stay physically engaged — even at lower levels you will move frequently, and fitness naturally improves with experience.
Develop life skills: Refereeing builds confidence, communication, leadership, and decision-making.
Earn match fees: Referees receive payment for games, and for many young officials this can be a great part-time income.
Give back to the game: Refereeing is a rewarding way to stay involved in soccer beyond playing.
Refereeing is open to a wide range of people from youth, adults, former players, and parents alike. Prior soccer experience is helpful but not required. We strongly encourage women and girls to join the referee community — female officials are great role models and help promote inclusion at all levels of the game.
Small-Sided Referee Pathway
For individuals aged 12+
Focuses on small-sided games (e.g., 7v7, 9v9).
Great first step for young referees starting out.
Entry Level Referee Pathway
For individuals aged 14 and older.
Qualifies you to referee 11-aside matches and act as assistant referee.
Once certified, referees are eligible to officiate league matches, cup games, and can continue advancing through referee development programs with experience and additional clinics.
To begin your referee training, you must register through Canada Soccer’s Referee Education platform and complete the required online modules. After that you’ll participate in an in-person practical session hosted by NLSA member clubs to complete your Entry Level certification.
Upon certification, referees are placed with local clubs and assignors to receive game appointments and begin officiating. New referees typically start with youth games and advance to more challenging matches with experience.
Referees are essential to the game at every level. Whether you’re interested in staying involved, earning match fees, or growing as a leader in the sport, NLSA referee programs provide a pathway to success.
Start your referee journey today and be part of the NLSA team!