US Soccer Federation Referee Program LogoReferees for league games are certified through the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) and contracted through the North Alabama Soccer Officials Association (NASOA). Per the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the referee’s decision on points of fact connected with play shall be final, so far as the result of the game is concerned.

Should you have a question concerning the ever changing laws, consult FIFA’s Laws of the Game. Additionally, USSF maintains their Advice to Referees in which USSF explains, in more detail, their interpretation of the FIFA Laws. Referees in the United States take into account the USSF position when officiating domestic matches. Finally, referees are constantly sent Position Papers where USSF states their position on a particular ruling or rule change. These papers, along with the Referee Resource Center, are up-to-the-minute guidance for all referees so keeping up with these papers helps with understanding any mid-season changes in the game. Captains and players are strongly encouraged to do some homework and read these documents. It will help improve the game on the field if everyone is playing by the same rules.

The referee has the authority to cancel a game for:

  • Improper field markings
  • Unanchored goals
  • Field conditions
  • Weather

Any physical or verbal abuse of the referees will not be tolerated and may result in league sanctions.