There are two types of badges available. Please choose the one below that is most appropriate for you and follow the instructions for it. All questions about the Referee program should be sent to [email protected].
Info for those 13+:
Next available clinics:
Available Clinics
All who wish to become referees should:
1. Access your physical fitness. Referees are on their feet all day. You are required to stand, sprint, jog, and walk for the entirety of the day. You will want to be able to run/jog for at least five to six miles continuously. If you cannot do that at this time, then work on conditioning this summer. A soccer referee has to run six to eight miles throughout a soccer game. They must follow the action in the game at all times and make sure they are close to the ball to observe any incidents. This requires near-constant movement from referees.
2. Meet the minimum age to get started. The United States Soccer Federation requires that you are at least 13 years of age before you can even begin the process of becoming a referee. This includes the online portion.
3. Go to: www.tnsoccer.org/referee Click on the New Referee tab. Click on the tab: Steps to Becoming A Referee. You will need to follow these steps in order and completely. Once in the Officials Management System, click on the New Member Registration. Create your account for the 2025 year, agree to the terms and conditions, and pay the required fees. Once you pay these, you are good to go to start the online class. IF you are over 18-years-old, you will need to complete the background check, so plan accordingly. These may take up to two weeks to get back. Check your email often. You can complete the online portion while waiting. If you would like to do your field training in Clarksville, then select Clarksville location.
4. The online class, background check (if over 18), and the field training must be completed prior to working as a referee. You can go head and order your referee uniform while waiting for the field training class and I would recommend doing so. These can be ordered from www.officialsports.com You are looking for Grassroots Soccer Ref uniform kit. If you are refereeing in Clarksville, please order the green shirt and two striped socks.
*Must complete the online class prior to in person class.*
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For ages 11 and 12:
This is a new program for those younger ages to have the opportunity to start as a referee sooner. This will be a 2 year certification with uniform included. These refs will only be certified to ref at MCSA and only on certain fields. The in person clinic will be held on Saturday, August 3rd - 9AM - Noon at Heritage Park. This will include basic uniform with green shirt. Ref must provide shoes, shorts, and watch. **Must have online modules completed prior to in person clinic. Use Invitation Code: RecRef22 to register. Directions below.
*Note that anyone can complete this course - any age - but will still only be certified to ref at MCSA and on certain fields.
Below is the link and instructions to register for 11/12 class:
https://www.tnsoccer.org/new-referees
Select “Registration”
Select “New Member Registration”
Please follow the below steps to complete the registration:
Registration process: (3 steps)
Step 1:
Referee Section:
Registration Type:
Select “Non-USSF-Licensed Small Sided Game Official”
Step 2:
You will be given the option to choose the clinic.
(To ref for MCSA, you will want the one on Saturday, August 3rd - 9-Noon at Heritage Park.)
You will need to add the Invitation Code: RecRef22
Select “Continue to next Step”
Step 3:
Pay for Clinic, take online course, and show up in person!