1. Go to the US Soccer Learning Center website here and create an account. PLEASE use an email that you will check regularly, as this is typically how you will be notified when you are assigned a game.
2. Click on the "Referee Program" tab at the top of the page.
3. Hover over the "Courses" drop down menu at the top of the page and click on "Available courses"
4. On the left hand side, click on "Grassroot first time referees" and then click on the right "Go to course list" button on the right hand side.
5. From here you will click on "course details"
6. From here, there will be step by step instructions on how to pay and sign up for a course. All the available courses in the state are listed on the left hand side. The Wisconsin Rapids NEW referee course is being held on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Immanuel Lutheran School.
7. The following are New referee course requirements:
   1. Online Referee Course Modules – 4.5 hr. 
   2. First-Time Referee Quiz -  45 mins. 
   3. Laws of the Game Update - 20 mins.
   4. Field session administered by the State Referee Committee* (In-person class on 2/22/25)
   5. Background Check (if 18 years or older)*
   6. SafeSport (if 18 years or older)- 1 hr. 
   7. Introduction to Safe and Healthy Playing Environments – 1 hr.
8. If you want to continue to be a referee after your first year, you will only be required to take the online re-certification program every year. You do not need to do these same requirements again unless you let your license lapse.

Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions!

Thank you,

Rae Parkinson - WR Referee assignor

email: raerippier@gmail.com

If you are looking to stay involved in with the sport you love, stay in shape, and take pride in your abilities, look no further! Becoming a soccer referee has many benefits (read more below). For more information on becoming a referee click on the links to the right or contact me at raerippier@gmail.com. 

I will continuously update this page with upcoming New Referee clinic information as well as recertification information.

Thank you,

Rae Parkinson - Referee Assignor

1. Stay active and healthy: Soccer referees are required to stay active and maintain a high level of fitness. By officiating games, referees are able to stay in shape and promote a healthy lifestyle.
2. Learn the rules of the game: By becoming a referee, you will gain a deep understanding of the rules of the game. This knowledge can be beneficial for your own understanding of soccer, as well as for coaching, playing, or even just watching the game as a fan.
3. Develop leadership and decision-making skills: As a referee, you are responsible for making important decisions on the field. This experience can help to develop your leadership and decision-making skills, which can be valuable in other areas of your life.
4. Make a positive impact: Referees play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the game. By enforcing the rules, referees help to ensure that the game is played in a fair and safe manner. This can be a rewarding experience, knowing that you are making a positive impact on the sport.
5. Connect with others: By becoming a referee, you will have the opportunity to connect with other referees, coaches, players, and fans. This can be a great way to make new friends and expand your social circle.
6. Travel and see new places: Some referees may have the opportunity to travel to different parts of the country or even internationally to officiate games. This can be a great way to see new places and experience different cultures.
7. Learn from experienced referees: By working with experienced referees, you will be able to learn from the best in the business. You will be able to gain valuable insights into the profession and pick up tips on how to handle different situations.
8. Get paid for doing something you love: Some referees are able to make a living officiating soccer games. This can be a great way to turn your passion for the sport into a career.
9. Improve your communication skills: As a referee, you will need to communicate effectively with players, coaches, and other officials. This experience can help to improve your communication skills, which can be beneficial in other areas of your life.
10. Give back to the community: Referees play an important role in the community by helping to ensure that soccer games are played in a safe and fair manner. By becoming a referee, you will be able to give back to your community and make a positive impact on the sport.