⚽ AUSC Referee Handbook – 2024/2025
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:
Step 1 – Get Certified
Make sure you’ve completed the BC Soccer referee course that matches the age group you want to officiate.
Step 2 – Register Online
Once you’re certified, you’ll be added to the AUSC referee group so you can receive game assignments.
Step 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.
Step 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.
Step 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 — 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 & Equipment Checklist
Make sure you’re fully equipped and dressed to referee! Here’s what you need:
- 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 F-40 recommended)
- Watch
- Coin
- Cards (Yellow and Red)
- Notepad and pencil/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
Pre-Game
- 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
❓ Referee FAQ
Q: What if I can’t make a game I already accepted?
A: Let us know ASAP in the WhatsApp group or contact the Referee Coordinator directly so we can reassign the game.
Q: How do I block off times I’m unavailable?
A: Just send a quick message in the WhatsApp group or update your availability when prompted each week.
Q: Who do I contact if I have a last-minute emergency?
A: Contact the Referee Coordinator right away. We’ll support you and help find a backup.
Q: Can I request certain fields or age groups?
A: Yes! Let us know your preferences — we’ll do our best to accommodate where possible.
Want to keep leveling up? Ask us about the referee development pathway!