The Indiana Soccer Referee Association (ISRA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Aaron Hernandez as the new State Director of Referee Development. Aaron brings over two decades of soccer experience and leadership to the role, taking the reins from Ben Trevino, who recently decided to step aside to spend more time with his family.
Aaron’s journey in soccer began when he was just six years old, playing youth soccer and later competing on his high school team and various club teams in NW Indiana. He continued his athletic career at the University of North Alabama where he began officiating in 2000. Aaron continues to referee at the NCAA Division I level as a NISOA referee. He served as a National Referee for nine years and, since 2019, has been a National Referee Coach with U.S. Soccer. In 2024, and among a select group of National Referee Coaches, Aaron has assessed professional matches (MLS, NWSL, USL Championship) for the Professional Referee Organization (PRO). Originally from Dyer, Indiana, he attended Lake Central High School before moving to Alabama just before his senior year.
Beyond his soccer experience, Aaron earned his BS in Chemistry and Environmental Biology, which informs his role as an Industry Technical Consultant at Nalco Water, an Ecolab company where he has worked since 2007. Aaron finished his graduate studies at the University of Louisville, after which he held teaching and leadership positions within various church and non-profit organizations. Aaron is committed to supporting and mentoring referees across Indiana, bringing not only technical expertise but also integrity and a strong foundation of values to his new position.
Personally, Aaron is a dedicated father to three children – Isabelle, Gabe, and Harper – who support his passion for soccer and service.
Aaron succeeds Ben Trevino, who has made an indelible mark on our organization. Over the past two years, Ben’s leadership saw the establishment of our referee development team, along with several impactful initiatives. Under his guidance, the ISRA’s assessment and instruction programs
grew and flourished. While Ben has chosen to step back, he remains a National Referee Coach and will continue to contribute to our program. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ben for his dedication and vision, which have left a lasting legacy for Indiana’s referees.
With Aaron Hernandez’s appointment, ISRA looks forward to building on our successes, developing new programs, and ensuring our referees receive the best training and mentorship. Please join us in welcoming Aaron to this essential role in our soccer community.
INDIANA WELCOMES AARON HERNANDEZ AS NEW STATE DIRECTOR OF REFEREE DEVELOPMENT
