How Much Does a Youth Soccer Referee Make Per Game?
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, and it is no surprise that many young people are interested in playing the game. However, soccer games cannot take place without referees, and youth soccer referees play a crucial role in ensuring that games are played fairly and safely. If you are considering becoming a youth soccer referee, one of the questions you might have is how much you can expect to earn per game. In this article, we will explore the average pay for youth soccer referees in the United States.
What is the Average Pay for Youth Soccer Referees?
According to our research [1], youth soccer referees in the United States typically earn between $16 and $48 per game. However, the exact amount can vary significantly depending on the state and the level of competition. For example, referees who work in highly competitive leagues or tournaments may earn more than those who work in less competitive settings.
Salary.com [2] reports that the average salary for a youth soccer referee in the United States is $43,134 per year. However, this figure is based on self-reported data submitted by users of their website and may not reflect the actual pay rates in all areas of the country.
Glassdoor [4] estimates that the total pay for a youth soccer referee in the United States area is $43,181 per year, with an average salary of $40,334 per year. These numbers represent the median and are based on salaries collected from their users.
Factors That Affect Youth Soccer Referee Pay
Several factors can affect how much a youth soccer referee earns per game. One of the most significant factors is the level of competition. Referees who work in highly competitive leagues or tournaments may earn more than those who work in less competitive settings.
Another factor that can affect pay is the location. Referees who work in areas with a higher cost of living may earn more than those who work in areas with a lower cost of living. Additionally, some states may have higher minimum wage requirements than others, which can affect how much referees are paid.
The experience and qualifications of the referee can also play a role in determining pay. Referees who have more experience or who hold higher levels of certification may be able to command higher pay rates.
How to Become a Youth Soccer Referee
If you are interested in becoming a youth soccer referee, the first step is to contact and register with your state referee committee [3]. They are the organization that will provide you with certification to referee youth soccer games in your state.
To become certified, you will need to complete a training program that includes both classroom instruction and on-field training. The exact requirements for certification can vary by state, so it is important to check with your state referee committee for specific details.
Once you are certified, you can begin working as a youth soccer referee. You may start by officiating games at the recreational level and work your way up to more competitive leagues and tournaments.
Conclusion
Youth soccer referees play an essential role in ensuring that games are played fairly and safely. While pay rates can vary depending on several factors, including the level of competition, location, and experience, referees can expect to earn between $16 and $48 per game on average [1]. If you are interested in becoming a youth soccer referee, contact your state referee committee to learn more about the certification process and begin your journey towards becoming a certified soccer referee.
