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Questions from the parent of a new AR after his first season:

My son did the AR program for the first time in spring (he loved it, great experience).

Just curious does he remain in the G9 program or do they move up to another level?

I know he doesn't want to be a center ref yet, so does that mean he stays in this class?
Also are there continuing classes he needs to take?

Answers:

Thanks for your feedback and we are thrilled that your son loves the Program and officiating!

Your son remains in the G9 Program as a certified USSF Grade 9 Official (Recreational Referee) until
HE DECIDES he would like to try to move up. 

Generally, it takes a number of seasons before a young Grade 9 official may feel ready and
comfortable to move up in grade and responsibility. That time frame ranges between 2 and
8 seasons, perhaps more.  It is very much an individual issue and depends on the motivation
and maturity level, as an Official, of each individual.

Please do note, however, that USSF Grade 9 Officials CAN OFFICIATE young age group games
in the Center already.  We do not push them into this though, and wait for them to tell us
they want to do it.  At that point, there is a complete Mentoring Assistance Program we
place them in so they have plenty of support to begin officiating in the Center for U10 and U11
matches.  Since those games are played on Saturdays, we still want them to officiate as ARs
on older age group games on Sunday.  They can do BOTH depending on their own schedules.

We highly recommend that an AR in our G9 Program have extensive experience officiating
tough games (meaning U16 and older) as a linesperson before making the move to the
Center.  By doing so, they will have a far smoother transition, more enjoyment and much
improved chances of success and longevity, which is the ultimate goal for youth sports.

THERE ARE CONTINUING RESPONSIBILITIES FOR EVERY OFFICIAL, INCLUDING ARs in
THE LISRA G9 PROGRAM:

1.  YEARLY, in November, every USSF Grade 9 MUST RE-CERTIFY with the USSF!

This is an absolute requirement of EVERY REFEREE and, not doing so will end your officiating
career!  This is a YEARLY requirement, ARs ALWAYS re-certify in November.  The time and place
will be emailed and posted in October in Arbiter and on the Home Page of www.lisra.net.

There is a yearly fee, approximately $45 for USSF Grade 9 Officials, which primarily covers
your USSF Liability Insurance.  You are subject to re-take the written test and you
must pass it each year.  You will be issued your new Badge for the next calendar year at the
Re-Certification session.

2.  Optional, but highly recommended, is for ARs to attend Monthly LISRA Member Meetings
where a clinic is always given.  To qualify to attend Membership Meetings, officials MUST be
LISRA Members.  Officials become LISRA Members by paying yearly dues and there is a
very low student rate for Associate Membership available.  Monthly Membership meetings
are posted on the Home Page of www.lisra.net.  The posting includes date, time and location
of the meeting.