As a US Soccer Federation (USSF) referee, your uniform is a visual representation of your authority, professionalism, and dedication to the sport. Donning the official Ussf Referee Uniform signifies your role as an ambassador for US Soccer, your state association, and the beautiful game itself. It’s more than just clothing; it’s a statement of your commitment to maintaining fair play and upholding the integrity of soccer. Embracing this responsibility with a positive attitude and a sharp appearance is key to effective officiating.
USSF Referee Uniforms and Equipment – Official Guidelines for Soccer Referees
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the required and optional components of the USSF referee uniform, ensuring you are properly equipped and ready to take the field with confidence. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for both new and experienced referees to maintain a consistent and professional standard across all levels of play.
Required USSF Referee Uniform Items
To officiate any match sanctioned by US Soccer, certain uniform items are mandatory. These items ensure that referees are easily identifiable and present a unified, professional image.
1. USSF Referee Shirt with Badge
The referee shirt is the most recognizable part of the uniform. Key specifications include:
- Official USSF Apparel: Shirts must be officially licensed USSF referee shirts.
- Sleeve Length & Style: Available in both short and long sleeve, and in Pro or Economy styles to suit different preferences and budgets.
- Primary Color: Yellow is the standard and most commonly used primary color.
- Undergarments: If visible, any undergarments worn beneath the referee shirt must be predominantly black to maintain a professional and consistent look.
- Certification Badge: Your current year’s USSF referee certification badge must be properly and visibly affixed to the shirt. This badge signifies your current credentials and authorization to officiate.
2. USSF Referee Shorts
Referee shorts are another essential element, designed for practicality and a uniform appearance:
- Solid Black: Shorts must be solid black, with no stripes, patterns, designs, or markings of any kind to ensure a clean and uncluttered look.
- Logo Restrictions: The only exceptions to this rule are small, official USSF logos and/or manufacturer’s logos (such as Official Sports, Capelli, or Score), which are permitted.
- Compression Shorts: Similar to undergarments for the shirt, if compression or “bicycle” shorts are worn underneath, they must also be solid black and not visible below the hem of the referee shorts.
3. USSF Referee Socks
Completing the lower portion of the uniform are the referee socks:
- Solid Black with Stripes: Socks must be solid black and feature two (2) horizontal white stripes near the top cuff. This distinctive design element helps to easily identify referees on the field.
- Comfort and Support: For added comfort or support, referees are permitted to wear extra socks of any color underneath the official USSF referee socks. This allows for personal preference without compromising the uniform’s appearance.
4. Footwear
Appropriate footwear is crucial for referee mobility, safety, and overall professional appearance:
- Solid Black (or Predominantly Black) Shoes: Shoes should be solid black or predominantly black to maintain a cohesive uniform.
- Clean and Safe Condition: Shoes must be clean, in good condition, and safe for running and movement on the field. Black laces are required.
- Acceptable Shoe Types: A variety of shoe types are acceptable, including designated referee shoes, running shoes, soccer shoes (without metal, aluminum, or steel cleats for safety reasons), turf shoes, or any other closed-toe footwear that provides adequate support and safety.
5. Timekeeping and Game Management Tools
Beyond apparel, referees require specific equipment to manage the game effectively:
- Wristwatch with Timer/Stopwatch: A wristwatch with a digital timer or stopwatch function is essential for tracking game time. Stopwatches worn around the neck are specifically prohibited for safety reasons. Cell phones are also not permitted for timekeeping during a match to maintain focus and professionalism.
- Whistle: A reliable whistle is indispensable for signaling fouls, stoppages, and restarts of play.
- Flipping Coin: A coin for pre-game toss to determine kick-off and ends.
- Yellow and Red Cards: Yellow and red cards are mandatory for cautioning and sending off players according to the Laws of the Game.
- Assistant Referee Flags: For referees acting as assistant referees, flags are necessary for signaling offsides, throw-ins, and other decisions along the touchlines.
- Score Pad/Paper and Writing Instruments: A score pad or paper and pens or pencils are needed to keep a record of the score, cautions, and other relevant game information.
Optional USSF Referee Uniform Items
While the items above are mandatory, certain optional items are permitted, particularly for comfort and in varying weather conditions. Generally, these items should also adhere to a color scheme that complements the uniform:
Inclement Weather Garments
Referees may wear additional garments for protection against extreme weather or for medical reasons, such as skin protection from the sun. The general guideline is that these garments should be solid or predominantly black and free from prominent designs, logos, stripes, writing, or decorations. Small, unobtrusive manufacturer logos are usually acceptable.
- Under Layers: Compression shirts, undershirts, sweatshirts, wind/rain shirts, etc., can be worn discreetly under the referee shirt for warmth or weather protection.
- Outer Layers (Legs): Wind/rain pants, sweat/track pants, etc., can be worn over the referee shorts in cold or wet conditions.
- Thermal Legwear: Thermal, compression-style, or yoga pants worn under referee shorts and tucked inside socks are permitted for added warmth in cold weather.
- Head and Handwear: Gloves, hats, and/or ear warmers made of soft, safe materials are allowed in cold weather. Baseball-style caps, if worn, should have the brim facing forward.
Sunglasses
- Limited Use: Generally, sunglasses are discouraged unless prescribed by a physician for medical reasons. Exceptions are made for prescription colored or tinted corrective lenses.
- Safety and Security: If worn, glasses should be made of safe, impact-resistant materials and secured with a strap to prevent them from falling off during play.
Additional Items for Your Referee Bag
Beyond uniform and game essentials, consider carrying these items for preparedness and comfort:
- Hat (Sun/Rain Protection): A hat for general sun or rain protection when not actively refereeing.
- Sunscreen: Essential for protecting skin during outdoor matches, especially in sunny conditions.
- Waterproof Bag: A waterproof bag to keep gear dry in wet weather conditions.
- Extra Referee Socks: Spare socks are useful in case of wet or muddy fields or unexpected uniform issues.
- Ball Pump and Needles: Useful for adjusting ball pressure if needed.
- Hydrating Fluids & Snacks: Water, sports drinks, and snacks are important for maintaining energy and hydration, especially when officiating multiple games.
- Insect Repellant: For protection against insects, particularly in outdoor settings.
- Personal Items: Any other personal items needed for comfort and well-being throughout the day.
Where to Purchase USSF Referee Uniforms and Equipment
USSF referee uniforms and equipment can typically be purchased from various online and sporting goods retailers specializing in referee gear. Official Sports International (OSI), Capelli Sport, and Score are common brands that offer USSF-approved uniforms. Searching online for “USSF referee uniform” will yield numerous vendors.
Other Important Considerations
- Shirt Color Coordination: While yellow is primary, USSF referee shirts come in six approved colors: yellow, green, red, blue, black, and pink. Higher-level competitions may require referees to wear matching shirt colors and sleeve lengths for team unity among the officiating crew. Always check specific league requirements.
- Gear Bag: Keep all your referee gear organized and easily transportable in a lightweight, durable bag.
- Footwear Comfort and Durability: Referees often work multiple games, so prioritize footwear that provides comfort, support, and durability. Soccer cleats are generally not recommended due to the potential for turf damage and reduced comfort over extended periods. Running shoes or turf shoes are often better choices.
By adhering to these USSF referee uniform guidelines, you ensure you are properly equipped, present a professional image, and uphold the standards expected of a US Soccer official. Being well-prepared and looking the part contributes to your confidence and effectiveness on the field, enhancing the game for players and spectators alike.
