U.S. Soccer Opens Nominations for the Fernando G. Alvarez Referee Champion Award

The Fernando G. Alvarez Referee Champion Award is back. Now in its second year, this award honors those who selflessly devote their time, wisdom, and passion to championing refereeing in the United States.

Named in honor of the late FIFA Centennial Order of Merit winner, Fernando G. Alvarez, this award celebrates the same tireless spirit that Alvarez embodied: lifting referees, opening doors, and creating opportunities at every level of the game. His legacy paved the way for many of the USA’s top FIFA Referees, including National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee Esse Baharmast.

Last year, the inaugural award was presented to Don Wilbur—a true icon in our community whose lifelong dedication to developing referees has left an indelible mark on the game. Don’s leadership and service set the standard for what it means to be a Referee Champion.

Now it’s time to ask: Who will be next?

We invite you to nominate the referee leaders, mentors, and advocates in your community who embody the very best of refereeing. This is your chance to celebrate those who:

• Go above and beyond to champion referees through their actions, words, and devotion.
• Serve as ambassadors for refereeing and represent officials with pride.
• Inspire with optimism, resilience, and integrity—even through challenges.
• Lead by example and bring a positive light to refereeing at every level.
• Consistently embody passion, leadership, confidence, determination, and empathy.

Nominate Today

Nominations are open now and must be submitted by 5 p.m. ET on October 17, 2025.
Click HERE to submit your nomination and help us recognize the champions who make refereeing stronger every day.

Read more about U.S. Soccer’s Awards for Refereeing https://www.ussoccer.com/refereeing/awards