Know the Game

Know the Game
Know the Laws: Success begins by being prepared
  • Read and know the Laws of the Game and work to learn the correct interpretations.
  • Know the generally accepted mechanics approved by the USSF and found in the Guide to Procedures for Referees, Assistant Referees and 4th Officials. You should have received this booklet in your entry levelcourse.
  • Know the local Rules of Competition (Fond du Lac Rec League Rules).
    • Length of halves
    • Size of ball
    • Number of players
    • Substitutions
    • Penalty kicks or no penalty kicks
    • Direct free kicks allowed or only indirect free kicks
    • Offside, no offside
    • What you do with the game report
    • Uniform requirements
  • As an inexperienced referee, you will not make all the right decisions. You will learn from experience and from working with more experienced referees.