Coos News

With fall sports set to begin on August 18, schools across Coos County are facing a growing challenge: a critical shortage of referees. The issue, which could impact football, soccer, and volleyball schedules, is part of a larger statewide and nationwide trend that has left athletic directors scrambling to find people willing to become certified officials.

John Richer, Commissioner and Assignor for the Coos/Brookings Soccer Association, said last season highlighted just how severe the shortage has become. Last year, he only had four people, including himself, willing to serve as certified soccer referees, and three of them were at or beyond retirement age.  Oftentimes, they had to cover games with only one or two referees instead of the recommended three.

With six schools competing in Oregon Schools Activity Association (OSAA) soccer, Richer was forced to reach out to associations in Medford and Eugene for help. While those organizations were able to provide temporary support, they are also struggling with staffing shortages. They will not be able to provide long-term assistance. Soccer is far from the only sport to have to reach out for help from other associations.

Marshfield High School Principal Eli Ashton, a longtime high school and college basketball referee, said the need extends beyond soccer. They are short on officials across all OSAA sports. Ashton believes that the best way to get involved is to start with a sport you know, whether you’ve played, coached, or just followed it closely. It’s not required, but it makes the transition into officiating a lot smoother.

Local associations are now offering incentives to recruit new officials. Under Richer’s leadership, the Coos/Brookings Soccer Association has grown from four referees last year to 11 this year, heading into the 2025 season. It expects to reach 18 before matches begin. New referees can be reimbursed for the cost of USSF and OSAA registration, a starter uniform kit, and background checks after completing three games. Game fees, mileage, and bonuses for working more than 10 matches per season are also available.

Richer emphasized that community involvement is key to solving the shortage. “Referees come from one source, your community,” he said. Anyone interested in becoming a certified referee can contact their local athletic director or visit the Oregon Athletic Officials Association website for more information.