Minors as Volunteers

Players 12 years of age and older are welcome to volunteer as assistant coaches but may not act as a team's head coach. In addition, a minor must be three years older than the age group they are helping to coach. The minor is to be encouraged to help with all coaching activities and should be allowed to be actively involved. In the event that the head coach cannot make a game or practice, an approved and Safe Haven-trained adult must be present and actively participating with the team. The trained adult must take responsibility for the team and all aspects of the game and practice. Minors must also take the Safe Haven course so that they gain an understanding of the policies.

Players aged 10 and over are invited to volunteer as referees. Youth referees have the same rights and responsibilities as adult referees. That is, they are responsible for the game from the time they enter the field until they leave. Youth referees complete the same training and receive the same mentoring as adult referees.

Becoming a referee is a great way for any serious player to improve his or her knowlege of the game of soccer. Understaning the laws, as referees must, and knowing how the referees see the game can really help a U14 or U19 player take their game to the next level.