In conjunction with the OSA, SOSA is committed to the education of new game officials and the maintenance of educational standards for existing referees.

Visit the OSA's web site to learn more about its current Referee Development Program and refereeing  forms.

Becoming a Referee
The minimum age to attend the Entry-Level Course is 14 years of age (as of March 31st of the current year). The OSA's insurance program is only in effect for anyone officiating who:

• meets the age requirement;
• has completed an Entry-level Course;
• and is properly registered for the current year.

Entry-Level course attendance at all six (6) sections of the Entry-Level  Course is mandatory in order to receive a certification to referee. These six units are each two hours in length.  Since the Entry-Level  course involves practical skills training, participants should dress casually and wear running shoes. Each participant should bring a binder, a pad of writing paper, a pen or pencil and a whistle.

Game Appointments
For her or his first year, a new  referee will be able to officiate only at youth recreational games, and be an assistant referee at youth competitive games. This policy ensures that new referees have an opportunity to develop their skills as officials which include elements such as positioning, signalling and working with other officials, prior to involvement in the senior and youth competitive levels of the game.

Who is eligible to be upgraded
Candidates must have: 

• completed at least one season as a competent new referee; 
• be not less than 16 years of age;
• be in good standing (no outstanding discipline);
• be recommended by the Club Head Referee or District Referee Coordinator;
• pass an examination and attend a course designated by The Association;

Those referees fulfilling the above criteria will be upgraded to Class 3 for the next registration year.

Class 3 Upgrade Program 
Referees who meet the upgrade criteria will attend a six-hour course which consists of a one hour written examination which focuses on the Laws of the Game Book which is issued at the Entry-Level (C4) Course or in their annual registration package; and  5 hours of classroom instruction (following the exam).

Candidates must attend the whole session (all six hours) to qualify for upgrading. No exceptions. Candidates who fail the examination will be eligible to re-take the examination (different version) at a later date. All Candidates who request to re-take the examination must have already completed the classroom session.

To register for a Class 3 Upgrade Course, please contact your Club Head Referee.

Game Appointments
Referees should directly contact the leagues for which they wish to officiate, or contact SOSA.