This past weekend, January 25 and 26, Indiana Soccer had the privilege of hosting teams from three other states for a weekend of exciting soccer games at Grand Park. The event wasn’t just about showcasing talent on the field; it also provided an opportunity for aspiring referees to get hands-on training and certification through a small-sided referee course.
In partnership with George Perry and Indiana Soccer, the course was designed to help grow the referee pool and empower players and their families to take on officiating roles in the game. Close to 40 new officials walked away with a small-sided referee patch, ready to contribute to the growing need for qualified referees in youth soccer.
Small-sided games, which typically involve fewer players on the field, are a great entry point for new officials. The course, led by experienced instructors, gave participants the knowledge and confidence needed to manage these fast-paced games while ensuring fair play.
With referee shortages becoming a growing concern in youth soccer, training and certifying new officials is more important than ever. By providing this hands-on learning experience, Indiana Soccer is not only helping to fill the gap but also empowering the next generation of referees.
As the weekend wrapped up, nearly 40 new officials were added to the local referee pool, ready to step into action and ensure fair play at upcoming events. This initiative is a step toward fostering a stronger, more sustainable soccer community in Indiana.
