Entry Level Referee Clinics
There are three different entry level clinics offered by the Western New York State Referee Association. Which clinic you take will depend on what you want to do, what your future plans are, and how old you are. Each of these clinics will offer you the possibility of earning a different referee grade: Referee or Recreational Youth Referee. Below is a description of each of the certification levels and class descriptions.
(Please note: It is not necessary to take your referee class in your home district or state, if you are taking the course outside of your home territory, let the instructor know and they will take care of any details required by USSF.)
A Referee may:
 Center or AR any USSF affiliated match based on age and experience. Recommended assignment level: All youth matches 16 and below.
A Recreational Youth Referee may:
 Center or AR any USSF affiliated recreational or non-competitive match or small sided game up to the Under 14 level or be the Assistant Referee on any match up to the Under 14 level.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:
APPLICANTS THAT ARE NOT U.S. CITIZENS:
You must be eligible to work in the United States or USSF will not certify you as a referee. 		ALL APPLICANTS:
In order to work almost all Youth matches in Western New York, you must be willing to participate in NYSWYSA's Risk Management Program. For details on that program, go to www.nyswysa.org.
CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
REFEREE OR RECREATIONAL YOUTH REFEREE
(to become either a Referee or Recreational Youth Referee with automatic upgrade to Referee at age 14.)
For people who wish to referee in USSF matches. Primary focus is on the Laws of the Game. No previous experience required. 16 hours classroom time. 100 question exam with passing score to certify.

Minimum Age:
For Referee badge-14 years old by May 1, 2012. For Recreational Youth Referee badge-12 years old by May 1, 2012.
Recreational Youth Referee candidates will automatically upgrade to Referee when they recertify as 14 year olds.

Get a list of upcoming Entry Level Referee/Recreational Youth Referee classes by clicking here.

Approximate class costs:
When you register, you will recieve an email directing you as to how much you owe and how to pay the total.
$35 for the class. ($20 if you are a Recreational Youth Referee already.)
$40 for USSF Registration.
$5 for WNYSRA State Management Fee. (Not applicable to Recreational Youth Referees)
Local dues depending on where you live. (Not applicable to Recreational Youth Referee)
Total cost= $75+ depending on above information.

Note: In order to work matches for santioned by New York State West Youth Soccer Association, you will need a Risk Management pass issued by NYSWYSA. You will be given instructions at the class about how to apply for this pass.
RECREATIONAL YOUTH REFEREE
For people who wish to referee in USSF recreational matches and small sided games. Primary focus is on the Laws of the Game. No previous experience required. 8 hours classroom time. 50 question exam with passing score to certify.

Minimum Age:
12 years old by May 1, 2012.
Recreational Youth Referee candidates must take the last half of the 16 hour Entry Level Referee class to upgrade, but will receive a discount on that course fee of $15.

Get a list of upcoming Grade 9 classes by clicking here.

Approximate class costs:
When you register, you will recieve an email directing you as to how much you owe and how to pay the total.
$15 for the class.
$40 for USSF Registration.
Total cost= $55.

Note: In order to work matches for santioned by New York State West Youth Soccer Association, you will need a Risk Management pass issued by NYSWYSA. You will be given instructions at the class about how to apply for this pass.