Help Your Child Build Confidence, Leadership, and Income as a Respected Referee — In a Community Designed for Their Success
Give Your Young Referee The Confidence, Skills, And Support They Need To Thrive In A Role That Builds Leadership And Independence – Without The Stress Of Figuring It Out Alone
AND TRANSFORM YOUR CHILD'S REFEREE EXPERIENCE FROM UNCERTAIN TO UNSHAKEABLE
Have you found yourself asking, "How do I help my child referee?"
As your child steps onto the field with a whistle instead of a ball, you're entering new territory. This isn't like other activities you've supported them through.
Watching your young referee make split-second decisions while facing pressure from coaches and criticism from other parents stirs a unique worry. You question if they're ready for this pressure and if available training programs –if there actually ARE any — will adequately prepare them for real-world officiating challenges.
You want to support them, but soccer referee development isn't as straightforward as other youth activities. Between work, family, and your busy schedule, becoming an expert in youth officiating systems feels like one more exhaustive task you don't have time to tackle. Where do you even begin?
With nearly 50% of referees quitting each year, you want to ensure your child experiences the remarkable benefits this unique role offers—building confidence through high-pressure decision making, developing professional communication skills, joining a supportive peer community, learning adaptability, and even managing their own income. These valuable life skills can flourish when your child has the right support and protection throughout their referee journey.
But now there's a better way to support your child's referee journey – one that prioritizes development, confidence, AND success.
The secret to helping your child thrive as a referee isn't just about getting them certified and throwing them onto the field. It's about providing a structured pathway with proper support, mentorship, and developmentally appropriate assignments.
The most successful young referees share something in common: they have advocates who understand the unique challenges of officiating and provide the right resources at the right time. They're part of a program that prioritize their development over simply filling game slots. << THIS. THIS. THIS.
Research shows that young people who develop critical life skills like resilience, confidence, and decision-making abilities in supportive environments carry these advantages into academics, careers, and personal relationships. Young referees uniquely build these skills by managing high-pressure situations, communicating with adults professionally, exercising authority, and even earning income—creating a foundation for success far beyond the field.
Free Resource for Parents
THE PARENT'S GUIDE TO SUPPORTING YOUR YOUNG REFEREE: 7 STEPS TO CONFIDENCE, COMMUNICATION & GAME DAY SUCCESS.
This practical resource is designed to help you feel confident and prepared as you support your child in their refereeing journey. Inside, you’ll find real-world strategies for navigating first-game nerves, helping your child recover from tough calls, and building strong communication and decision-making skills under pressure. You’ll also get a simple checklist to ensure your child is mentally and physically ready before they step on the field. Whether your child is brand new to officiating or already certified, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to set them up for success—on and off the field.
I Built The Referee Advocates Because I Refuse to Watch Another Young Referee Abandoned on the Field Without Training or Support
MEET THE FOUNDER
HI, I'M DANEEN, AND MY PASSION IS BUILDING UP YOUTH THROUGH REFEREEING.
My journey began when I was working with my original club. I started doing this because I saw the referees struggle right before my eyes. Using my Montessori background, I started creating systems. I saw change unfold and I knew I was on the right track.
As their assignor, I developed a process that prioritized referee development. Word got around. In 2015, another club approached me, impressed by our clear communication and development focus. I took them on as a client—though expanding my assignor role wasn't part of my plan.
But I quickly hit a wall. This new club refused to implement what actually makes refereeing sustainable for kids: fair pay, holding coaches accountable for their behavior, efficient game scheduling, and educating players about respecting officials.
When they wouldn't budge on these non-negotiables, I did something unexpected—I fired them as a client.
That moment was my wake-up call. I realized the referee development world needed more than someone assigning games to fill empty slots. It needed actual training. It needed to support the referees on the field. Most importantly, it needed to give referees a voice and a seat at the table where decisions were being made. For too long, young referees had been expected to perform without having their experiences, challenges, and perspectives heard and valued.
It needed advocates. So I created The Referee Advocates.
After a decade working with youth referees and their families, I know exactly what separates the referees who quit after three games from those who discover a transformative journey. The Referee Advocates exists as the only program of its kind in Minnesota, offering a truly original approach to referee development. Our distinctive methodology combines customized game assignments, personal mentorship, and structured advancement pathways—elements you won't find in standard referee programs.
I believe that with this one-of-a-kind support system, young referees don't just survive—they thrive, building confidence, resilience, and independence that prepares them for success in all areas of life.
The stories of growth and transformation from our referee community highlight just how powerful this unique opportunity becomes when youth receive the right support at the right time.
The Referee Advocates is the only program in Minnesota designed specifically for the development of young referees – not just filling game slots.
WHAT MAKES OUR PROGRAMS DIFFERENT:
Developmentally Appropriate Assignments: We never place your child on a game they're not ready for just to fill a spot. Every assignment matches their current skill level and confidence.
Complete Control for Your Child: They choose which games to work, when to work them, and can even decide not to center unless they want to.
Safeguards Against Overwhelm: Our level system prevents your child from accidentally signing up for games beyond their ability, protecting them from negative experiences.
Multi-Club Flexibility: Work with ANY of our partner clubs including Legacy FC, CC United, Fusion, United FC Rush, and others – giving your child more options that fit your schedule.
Family-Centered Approach: Unlike standard referee programs focusing solely on the referee, we provide resources for parents to understand and support their child's journey.
Comprehensive Support System: From training and mentorship to equipment and guidebooks, we provide everything your child needs to succeed.
Long-Term Development Path: Our programs connect seamlessly, creating a pathway from beginner to advanced levels for those who want to continue
WHAT MAKES OUR PROGRAMS DIFFERENT
“The experience TRA provided for my children helped them persist through the challenges of being a referee and helped them stick with it throughout their college days!”
-Heidi, mother of Carter and Watson
Choose the perfect starting point for your child's referee journey.
WHERE TO BEGIN
For Kids Just Starting Out (Ages 11-12)
JUNIOR REFEREE PROGRAM
Perfect for younger children wanting to try refereeing in a low-pressure environment:
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Age-appropriate training for recreational games
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Introduction to basic officiating skills
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Opportunity to earn money while building confidence
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Supportive environment with guidance from experienced mentors
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Pathway to our Fast Track Program when they're ready
For First-Time Young Referees (Ages 13-17)
FAST TRACK REFEREE PROGRAM
Your child will receive:
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Comprehensive Referee Guidebook with game management strategies and confidence-building techniques
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Complete Referee Kit with professional-grade equipment
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Specialized Training beyond basic certification to prepare for real-game scenarios
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Personalized Mentorship from experienced referees who understand youth development
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Controlled Game Assignments matching their skill level and confidence
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Parent Resources to help you support your child's journey
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Access to our supportive referee community
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Dedicated Program Director for questions and guidance
For Experienced Youth Referees (2-6+ Years)
REFEREE ACCELERATOR PROGRAM
The next step for referees ready to advance their skills:
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Tailored mentoring from USSF certified mentors
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Individualized progress plans and feedback loops
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Statewide opportunities for coaching and assessment
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Pathway to higher-level games including ECNL, MLSNext, college, and adult leagues
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Pairing with regional/national referee cohorts for advanced development
TO SECURE YOUR CHILD'S SPOT BEFORE REGISTRATION CLOSES ON (date)
Joining The Referee Advocates' programs unlocks benefits that extend far beyond the field.
FOR YOUR CHILD:
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Develop exceptional decision-making skills under pressure
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Build confidence in a supportive environment
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Learn conflict management and communication skills
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Earn competitive pay with flexible scheduling
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Gain leadership experience that stands out on college applications
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Develop resilience that transfers to academic and personal challenges
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Join a community of like-minded peers and mentors
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Create a foundation for potential career advancement in officiating
FOR YOU:
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Peace of mind knowing your child is properly supported and protected
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No more worrying about inappropriate game assignments or situations
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Clear communication and transparency about your child's development
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Less time spent researching and navigating the referee ecosystem
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Professional guidance from experts who understand both youth development and officiating
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Seeing your child grow in confidence, independence, and resilience
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Supporting your child's passion while teaching valuable life skills
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Being the parent who provided the resources they needed to succeed
AND GIVE YOUR CHILD THE EXPERIENCE THEY DESERVE!
When you invest in your child's referee development with us, you're providing value that extends well beyond the field.
Let's break down what your investment includes:
Fast Track Referee Program Value
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Professional Referee Kit: $100
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Comprehensive Referee Guidebook: $75
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Specialized Training Sessions: $300
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Leadership + Life Skills Development: $500
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Parent Resources and Support: $200
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Game Assignment Strategy Sessions: $200
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The Referee Advocates Community: $150
Total Value: $1,525
But the true value comes in what can't be measured:
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The confidence your child gains from proper preparation
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The resilience they build through supported challenges
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The leadership skills that transfer to school and future careers
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The independence they develop by making decisions on their own
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The pride they feel managing complex situations successfully
These are the investments that continue paying dividends long after the season ends.
Normally, this level of personalized support comes at a premium.
OUR STANDARD RATES FOR THE 2025 - 2026 SEASON WILL BE:
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Fast Track Referee Program: $399
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Junior Referee Program: $299
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Referee Accelerator Program: $??
These rates reflect the complete ecosystem of support in our programs and the personalized attention your child receives throughout their referee journey.
For a limited time, we're offering special early registration pricing.
WHEN YOU JOIN NOW, YOU'LL SECURE YOUR CHILD'S SPOT AT OUR EXCLUSIVE PRE-SEASON RATES
Fast Track Referee Program
$199
(save $200!)
Fast Track Referee Program
$139
(save $160!)
Fast Track Referee Program
$??
(save $??!)
This special pricing is only available until [insert date]!
REGISTER TODAY FOR EXCLUSIVE BONUSES!
BUT WAIT – REGISTER TODAY AND RECEIVE THESE EXCLUSIVE BONUSES!
BONUS #1
Priority Game Assignments
Priority Game Assignments Early registrants get first access to premium game slots for the season.
Value: $150
BONUS #2
Private Parent Strategy Session
A one-on-one consultation to discuss your child's specific needs and goals.
Value: $200
BONUS #3
Referee Success Toolkit
Digital resources to help your child prepare mentally and physically.
Value: $97
BONUS #4
Seasonal Development Check-Ins
Quarterly reviews of your child's progress with personalized next steps.
Value: $300
TOTAL BONUS VALUE: $747
These programs fill up quickly – and some already have waitlists.
Our Junior Referee Program at Fusion and CC United already has waitlists forming, with limited spots remaining at Rush and Legacy.
For our Fast Track Program – the only one of its kind in Minnesota – we maintain small cohorts to ensure quality mentorship and appropriate game assignments for each participant.
The Referee Accelerator Program will only run if we reach a minimum viable cohort size by [date].
Registration for all programs officially closes on [date] – just days from now.
"My kids' experience with TRA helped me have more empathy for the referees out there. It's not an easy job by any stretch. I’m on the sidelines explaining to other parents that referees are often only children and learning themselves. And sometimes, I recruit them to be referees."
-Julie, mother of Oliver and Lawson
WHY DO WE LIMIT OUR ENROLLMENT?
Simply put: quality over quantity.
For our programs to deliver the results we promise, we must maintain certain standards:
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Small mentor-to-referee ratios for personalized attention
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Carefully matched game assignments appropriate to each referee's level
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Sufficient games available for each participant to gain experience
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Adequate time for program directors to address individual needs
Minnesota continues to lose 50% of its referee workforce each year due to poor experiences and lack of support. We're determined to change that – but we can only do it by maintaining the integrity of our programs.
When spots are gone, they're gone – until next season.
ENROLLMENT
Here's exactly what happens when you JOIN NOW:
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Complete our simple registration form for your selected program
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Within 24 hours, our Program Director will personally welcome you and schedule your onboarding time
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Get access to the Parent Portal with resources and important dates
We stand behind our commitment to your child's referee experience.
If after the first training session and mentorship meeting, you don't feel our program is the right fit for your child, we'll refund your investment in full – no questions asked.
We only want families in our programs who truly benefit from them, and we're confident your child will thrive with our support.
Plus, you can COUNT ON:
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Transparent communication throughout the season
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The ability to "turn back" games with advance notice if plans change
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Program directors who respond to your questions within 24 hours
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A supportive community that values your child's development
Your child deserves the best possible start to their referee journey.
JOIN NOW TO SECURE THEIR SPOT IN THE PROGRAM THAT WILL TRANSFORM THEIR REFEREE EPERIENCE FROM UNCERTAIN TO UNBEATABLE.
Registration closes March 15th - don't let them miss this opportunity!
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Will my child be required to center games?Absolutely not! YOUR child will not be required to Center any games unless they want to.
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How much flexibility will my child have with game scheduling?Complete flexibility! YOUR child gets to pick what games they want to work.
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What if my child signs up for a game that's too advanced for them?Our system prevents this! YOUR child will be assigned a "level" in our system that will prevent them from accidentally getting onto a game "above their ability".
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What if our plans change after signing up for games?No problem! You can "turn back" games that your child initially signed up for if your plans change, as long as we have advance notice.
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Can my child work for multiple clubs?Yes! Your child will be able to work for ANY of the TRA clubs including Legacy FC, CC United, Fusion, United FC Rush, and any others. We want your child to be successful, so there are safeguards to match the opportunities.
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How do I know which program is right for my child?For Junior Referees (ages 11-12), reach out to Sophie at sophie@therefereeadvocates.com. For Fast Track Referees (ages 13-17), contact Daneen at daneen@therefereeadvocates.com to determine eligibility and fit.
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Does my child have to register with any other national or state affiliations to be in any of The Referee Advocate programs?Yes, if they are 13 years of age and older. To become a soccer referee in Minnesota, you need to complete the registration process with both the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) and the Minnesota State Referee Committee (MSRC). To register as a referee with the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF), you can use the US Soccer Referee Program portal. However, USSF does not handle individual referee registration directly on their main website. Instead, registration for referees is done through the US Soccer Learning Center. Here’s what you need to do: Go to the US Soccer Learning Center website: https://learning.ussoccer.com/ Create an account (if you don’t already have one). Once logged in, look for the “Referee Courses” section, where you will be able to register for the appropriate referee certification. This process will register you with USSF, and after completing the training, you can move on to registering with your state’s referee committee (MSRC): https://www.minnesotasrc.com/become-a-referee
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Give Your Child the Referee Experience They Deserve?
Don’t let uncertainty hold them back from an opportunity that builds confidence, leadership, and independence. With the right support, your child won’t just survive on the field—they’ll thrive.
Spots are limited, and programs are already filling. Take the first step today.