SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Region 282 is kicking off its 47th fall soccer season shortly and seeking more adult volunteer referees.
Whether you’ve picked up the whistle before or are new to refereeing, AYSO welcomes volunteers from the community to help make the season a success. “You don’t need to have prior experience as training is provided for all volunteers,” says Marketing Coordinator Katie Joll.
Referees help to make soccer possible for the 700+ kids registered for the fall season. It’s a rewarding role and can help ensure that local teams are able to participate in a tournament in Carson City near the end of October. New refs often start by taking on an assistant referee role until they’re comfortable moving into center ref.
The AYSO season runs from August 29 until the middle of October, culminating with South Lake Tahoe’s “Big Blue Tournament.” This year, referees will earn raffle tickets for each game they officiate, which will put them in the draw for some great prizes donated by local sponsors.
AYSO promotes a safe environment for volunteers and children based on their six core philosophies, including good sportsmanship. Referees are supported by volunteer board members, and spectators are expected to be respectful at all AYSO games.
Steps to Sign Up:
- Register as a referee at AYSO282.org
- Sign up for the referee training, happening Sunday, August 23, 9-12 at the Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe. There is also an online training component. To sign up, click on the AYSOU tab at the left of the screen once signed in to your volunteer account and sign in. Select “Training Event” and click on the calendar for August 23. Enrol in “Regional Referee Companion Course.”
- All AYSO volunteers aged 18+ need to be background checked. AYSO is offering this on Sunday, August 16, 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Al Tahoe Playing Fields. If you’re not able to make it, there are alternative options for getting the check done.
Please direct any questions to marketing@sltayso.org