Registering for a class (cont.)

If you have never been registered with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), you need to begin by taking an entry-level class. There are two entry-level referee classes in the USSF that are taught in Tennessee. One certifies you to become a grade-8 referee and the other the other certifies you to become a grade-9 referee.

For the most part, grade-8 referees manage and conduct youth-level matches at a competitive level (Divisions 1, 2, and 3 . . . including “select” matches). The grade-8 entry-level class takes about 15 hours.

Grade-9 referees (sometimes referred to as “recreational” referees) are trained to manage and conduct U14-and-younger matches within recreational leagues. The grade-9 entry-level class is about 8 hours; this class is not offered everywhere in Tennessee.

Grade-8 referees can referee recreational games, but grade-9 referees are not supposed to referee competitive games. For every grade-9 referee in Tennessee there are about a dozen grade-8 referees.

To continue, click Approved Classes (top menu bar) and follow the online instructions.

For detailed instructions, click here.

If you need assistance, please contact Peggy Gruzalski.