Topics include:

• Welcome to the Whistle - the referee’s role, responsibilities, mindset, professionalism, and the importance of serving the game

• Recognizing Fouls - identifying careless, reckless, and excessive-force challenges, plus the difference between fair contact and fouls

• Offside - offside position, involvement in active play, gaining an advantage, and the timing of the decision

• Positioning and Game Awareness - where referees should be, why angle matters more than distance, and how awareness helps anticipate the next phase of play

• Teamwork and Communication - how the referee crew works together using signals, eye contact, pre-game expectations, and assistance from assistant referees

• Game Management - practical guidance for match-day duties, dealing with players/coaches/spectators, restarts, substitutions, and keeping the game moving

• Next Steps - assignments, learning from mistakes, getting feedback, and continuing development

Review of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) Changes to the Laws of the Game (LOTG) for 2026-27

25 questions on the Laws of the Game

Topics include concussion awareness, Emergency Action Plans (EAPs), heat stroke, cold weather considerations, and lightning guidelines (30 minute presentation)

A JDP background check is required for those age 18 and older; cost is $23 and is good for 2 years; allow 1 week for a determination

Certification through the U.S. Center for SafeSport is required annually by law for those age 18 and older; a 90 minute module