Overview
There are six instructor grades:
- Grade 11 – Recreational Youth Instructor
- Grade 9 – Associate Instructor
- Grade 7 – Instructor
- Grade 5 – State Instructor
- Grade 4 – National Instructor Trainer
- Grade 3 – National Instructor
The State Director of Instruction is responsible for developing an instructor network that meets the needs of the State Referee Association.
National Instructors and National Instructor Trainers are selected by the U.S. Soccer Referee Department.
Types of Instruction
Instruction can be both formal and informal. Informal instruction is most readily available in the form of educational resources that are accessible online. These online texts and videos help provide practical advice related to interpretation and application of the Laws of the Game.
Formal instruction relates to the requirement of grade maintenance and upgrade. These courses and clinics are scheduled at the local level by the State Referee Association. These learning opportunities are meant to provide a more structured environment where materials and topics can be addressed and discussed in detail.
Instructional Criteria
The following is a summary of the criteria used to complete formal instruction for grade maintenance and upgrade.
Laws of the Game
- Proper interpretation and application
Procedures
- Guidelines for signaling and positioning as they relate to the diagonal system of control
Management
- Strategies associated with the management of players, coaches and spectators
Fitness
- Awareness related to the testing standards and expectations to meet physical demands
Administrative Skills
- Establish competency in the completion of game report and supplemental reports when dealing with issues of misconduct, abuse or assault
