The Referee Advocates
A fully-integrated referee management organization committed to enhancing youth soccer in Minnesota
At TRA, we’re committed to making youth soccer stronger by supporting referees and partnering with clubs. We develop referees through mentorship, training, and assignments, so you can step on the field with confidence, and your club can focus on growing the game.
We are Our Values
Community trust is the most important thing we'll ever earn, and we build our lasting relationships through our values. When you take a step towards investing in referees, our work together will have lasting impact felt for years to come.
Honesty, fairness, and respect are at the heart of who we are. We make smart, ethical decisions based upon what’s best for the whole in the long-run.
Integrity
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Collaboration
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A diverse set of people and perspectives working together results in better outcomes. We work to bridge communication barriers and focus on mending broken relationships to bring our communities together.
Ingenuity
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We are naturally curious and resourceful. We are creative problem-solvers, driven by finding solutions and possibilities others may not see.
Knowledge
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We continuously seek information, perspectives, and data to help us deepen our expertise and solve the problems in front of us. We pride ourselves on being in-the-know and informing others through transparent practices.
Excellence
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We are proud of our high standards and well-honed capabilities. We confidently pursue the highest quality experiences and outcomes.
Accountability
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We are committed to taking ownership and responsibility for what is within our sphere of influence and expect others to do the same.
Behind The Name
We’ve seen too many referees quit before reaching their potential. TRA was created to advocate for officials, equip them with mentorship, and give clubs the consistency they need. Today, our referee-centric community keeps the game fair, safe, and thriving.
The youth sports landscape has changed significantly over the years, yet one thing remains steady. We all want our youth to flourish in their sport and grow as players and as people.
Our referees are an essential part of youth sports. Without a ref, the game simply cannot go on. Referees ensure the playing environment is fair, fun, and safe. They help our players learn the game. They give so much to the sport, yet we have not fully acknowledged that the quality of the game environment directly relates to the resources we provide our referees. We simply have not invested in the level of ongoing development and support that our officials need to thrive in their role or to grow the profession as a whole. And in result, we, as a community, are feeling the impacts of this, each of us in our own unique ways.
Crafting our model for 10 years, our founder designed TRA to advocate for referee resources needed to change the game. Through our integrated programs and services, strong community partnerships, and thought-leadership and advocacy initiatives, we are building a skilled, supported, and connected referee-centric community to serve as the underpinnings of a better game day for all.
The TRA Approved Badge:
A Standard Worth Standing Behind
The TRA Approved Badge represents a shared commitment between clubs, referees, and The Referee Advocates to build a more professional, respectful, and sustainable game-day environment.
When a club earns the TRA Approved Badge, it’s more than a logo, it’s a promise.
It signals to referees, families, and the broader soccer community that this club is actively investing in referee development, accountability, and culture.
For Referees
The badge is your assurance that you’re stepping into a professional, supportive environment.
TRA Approved clubs:
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Provide mentorship and on-field guidance to help you grow.
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Enforce accountability for coaches, parents, and staff.
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Offer fair pay, equitable assignments, and a safe atmosphere.
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Create development and retention plans that help referees succeed.
For Clubs
The badge distinguishes clubs that lead, showcasing those committed to growth, respect, and referee excellence.
TRA Approved clubs:
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Partner with TRA for training, mentorship, and development planning.
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Promote accountability and positive behavior on the sidelines.
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Uphold fairness and transparency in pay and assignments.
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Actively support referee recruitment and retention efforts to strengthen the game’s future.
Why It Matters
The TRA Approved Badge reflects a club’s leadership and a referee’s trust, uniting both under one shared standard of professionalism and respect.
Look for the badge. Earn the badge. Raise the standard.
