The Future of Assigning: Accountable Systems, Supported Referees, and a Better Experience for Players, Coaches, and Fans.
The Referee Advocates
The Referee Advocates trains, mentors, and supports youth soccer officials across Minnesota, building the systems clubs need and the community referees deserve.
We build structured development, mentorship, and community around referees so they’re supported from their first whistle onward. Through our partnerships, clubs can strengthen referee quality, improve game-day consistency, and ensure a better experience for everyone on the field.
Our partners’ investment in referee development allows officials on their fields to receive the training, mentorship, and on-field support needed to grow in confidence and consistency.
Referees and Clubs are finally growing the game together.
Referees
From your first whistle to elite competition, we provide the training, mentorship, and game assignments that help you grow with confidence.
Clubs
Reliable coverage, professional standards, and a referee development partner who understands what your club actually needs.
Get Involved
Mentor a new referee, donate gear, or sponsor a young official's growth. Every contribution strengthens the game.
what we do
Assign
A reliable, accountable assigning system that gets every game covered, without the scramble, the no-shows, or the chaos clubs are used to dealing with.
Mentor
Local, on-field mentorship from experienced referees who've been where you are. Real feedback after real games.
Develop
We run structured training and development pathways for referees at every level, from 11-year-olds working their first rec game to adults returning to the sport.
Trusted by clubs across Minnesota
Words from our Community
"TRA has provided guidance, support, and ongoing instruction to help me be the best official I can. Plus I get to work with my daughter as she learns valuable life skills like determination and authority."
F. Scott Fein,
First Year Adult Referee
“The TRA Junior Referee Program helped our rec players experience a more organized game environment, effectively preparing them for the transition to competitive soccer.”
Erika Domier,
Director of Soccer Operations
"Lakeville SC is steadfast in our commitment to development, not just in player/coach/parent, but in all facets. We feel TRA has identified a missing need to support and develop referees for a better game day."
Forrest Randall,
Executive Director of Lakeville Soccer Club
We Currently Serve in the Following Areas
Subscribe to our Newsletter!
Monthly updates on referee development, training opportunities, and TRA news.
We’re proud to collaborate with mentors, organizations, and partners who share our mission of safer sidelines and stronger game culture.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who Can Become a Referee?
Refereeing is great for:
- Current/former soccer players
- Parents
- Students
- Anyone looking for flexible, part-time work!
US Soccer has mandated a minimum age of 13 years old to get certified. Therefore, you can start the certification process after you turn 13 years old.
TRA does have options for 11-12 year olds, location pending, through our Junior Program to work recreational games.
Q: How Do I Become a Licensed Referee for Games?
1. Register with US Soccer Learning Center
2. Complete Requirements:
- Pay registration fee
- Complete online training
- Attend an on-field training session
3. If 18 or older: Complete a MYSA background check
4. Notify Chad, our Director of Referee Relations, once certified at [email protected]
Q: What Uniform & Equipment Do I Need?
Uniform (for Competitive Games):
- Yellow referee jersey
- Black shorts
- Black socks (preferably with 3 white stripes)
- Black undergarments, gloves, and hat (if needed)
Required Equipment:
- Watch with stopwatch function
- Whistle
- Coin
- Flags (for ARs)
- Pen and notebook
- Phone
join a community that supports you
on and off the field
2150 3rd Street
Suite 16
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
OFFICE HOURS
Mon-Thu: 9AM to 4PM
Friday: 9AM to 3PM
Sat-Sun: Closed
© 2026 The Referee Advocates - All Rights Reserved.
Contact
FAQ
Privacy Policy