Question Number: 30479

League Specific 6/4/2016

Barry Walker of Ottawa, ON Canada asks...

This question is a follow up to question 30465

As a followup to the question in becoming a referee in Ontario, the original poster should be aware that the Ontario Soccer Association requires each referee to pass a test annually. This test covers the laws of the game and includes video clips to test foul recognition and the application of appropriate levels of discipline. Any referee must score more than 80% in order to be able to register for the new season.

Each district of the OSA conducts periodic refresher training. In the Eastern Ontario District, this training consists of six classroom sessions given in the two months prior to the start of the season. The level of training in the original poster's district may vary.

Finally, the OSA has developed a standard rating system which is applied across the entire province. Full implementation of this system will ensure that referees are fully capable of meeting the requirements for the matches to which they are assigned, including the necessary level of physical fitness.

See http://www.ontariosoccer.net/images/publications/2015/referee/2016_OSA_Referee_Grading_Protocol_Final__NP_Aug_15th.pdf

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Barry
While the detail was not mentioned in the original answer the principle of ongoing training and assessment was. Thanks for sharing the Ontario position in respect of ongoing training and certification which confirms that.
Perhaps the question highlights that such information is not disseminated widely enough so as to dispel opinions that referees are not subject to ongoing development activities including review, training and assessment.