SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – South Lake Tahoe’s largest soccer program, AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Region 282, is in need of volunteer referees as they enter their busiest season yet.
South Lake Tahoe AYSO has served the community since 1980, administering recreational fall soccer programs to children ages four to 17. Over the last 46 years, the organization has grown tremendously, and this fall season, 712 kids are registered to play. Alongside recreational soccer, AYSO also offers competitive soccer through their volunteer-run Alliance Program.
Volunteers are a vital part of the organization’s success, and while there are 140 volunteers currently signed up to coach, participate in field setup and be on AYSO’s board, referees are lacking.
“It’s really about getting out there so that kids can play,” said Katie Joll, Marketing Director at AYSO Region 282.
Whether you’re new to refereeing, or you’re intimidated at the idea of calling a game, AYSO Region 282 provides training and support.
“We don’t just throw people in [the game],” Joll said. “They get to start where they’re comfortable, so maybe that’s the assistant referee or the flagger on the sideline that notices who sent the ball out.”
Training consists of a combination of both online and in-person, including being trained for about 3 hours by a local referee trainer. The season runs from August 29 until AYSO’s Big Blue Tournament on October 17, making it about a 6 week commitment.
Referees will also receive incentives based on the number of games reffed with opportunities to earn raffle tickets for some amazing prizes donated by local businesses and AYSO swag.
“One thing that we’re very mindful of is keeping the cost of playing low for families,” said Joll. “We work to keep it affordable, but we also work on getting funding so that we can offer scholarships.”
More than 10% of players have received scholarships to assist families in paying their registration fees.
“We’d also like to emphasize our gratitude to all of our volunteers,” Joll added. “AYSO Region 282 is entirely volunteer-run and is a community affair.”
If you’re interested in volunteering, visit ayso282.org.
AYSO Region 282 is sponsored by Pipkin Family Foundation, Souers Hastings Real Estate Team, Sombreros, South Tahoe Refuse, Castle Rock Creamery, Keys Cafe, and the Rollins Family.
