Referee Information
GCKA Knights Referee Information
STEP 1: GET LICENSED
All GCKA referees must be officially licensed through the U.S. Soccer Referee Program. To become a licensed official, you must complete online modules and attend an in-person field session.
Local GCKA Licensing Classes:
We typically host licensing classes at Murfin Fields twice a year:
• Spring Session: Held in March
• Fall Session: Held in August
To start your certification, visit the U.S. Soccer Learning Center. Create an account and search for "Grassroots Entry-Level" courses in Ohio.
STEP 2: CONTACT OUR ASSIGNORS
For Recreational Games (In-House):
If you want to referee our recreational games, please contact our coordinator once you are licensed:
Contact: Beth Colburn
Email: colburnbeth221@gmail.com
For Travel Games (OCL/League):
Travel game assignments (OCL, ECNL-RL, NPL) are handled through the league website:
REFEREE ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY
Respect the Call - Effective March 2025
GCKA adheres to the U.S. Soccer Referee Abuse Prevention Policy (Policy 531-9). Referee abuse will not be tolerated. We're asking everyone to do their part by knowing the rules, reporting referee abuse, and embodying behaviors that represent the best of us. Our updated policy is designed to make youth and amateur matches safer, more fun, and more empowering for everyone involved.
RESOURCES & PREPARATION
Game Day Resources:
• IFAB Laws of the Game: The official digital rulebook and mobile app for quick law checks.
• U.S. Soccer Pocket Guide: A great summary of referee signals and positioning.
• Official Sports International: The exclusive uniform and gear supplier for U.S. Soccer Referees.
New Referee Checklist:
Before heading to Murfin Fields, ensure you have:
• Current Year USSF Uniform (Yellow is standard)
• Whistle, Watch (with timer), and Toss Coin
• Red/Yellow Cards and Game Score Cards
• Two Pens/Pencils and a Water Bottle
Questions? Contact