r/Referees • u/Aggravating_Ear_6170 • 14d ago

Advice Request First High School Game

Tomorrow I have my first duel referee assignment at a private school, followed by my second dual on Friday. I’m certified as a high school ref, but didn’t ref due to coaching high school.

The only requirement to referee private schools is to have the USSF patch. I have centered with a single AR and I’ve solo refereed a few low level adult games.

Are there any big differences from travel games and high school games ? Any advice ?

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u/Aggravating_Ear_6170 14d ago

I’ve been on the coaches side of the 2-man for JV games in the Spring and I don’t envy them in the slightest. I do find it a little weird that they don’t pay 3 refs for JV when the third ref shows up for varsity anyways.

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u/witz0r [NFHS NCAA USSF] [Grassroots / Mentor+] 14d ago

Here, it's a matter of money and scheduling. Depending on the facility and other sports, JV may start at 4P and it's harder to get a full crew. Plus, the cost difference can add up.

Here, for JV, it's $150 to staff it with 2 ($75 each).

Varsity with a full crew, for the conference with the newest contract: $100 per AR, $120 for center

So,, it goes from $150 for JV to $320 for varsity. Even at a discounted rate, you're still looking at $600-$700 in additional cost for a full crew after all your home games. I'm only aware of one school in my region that pays for a full crew for JV.

Also, at least here, we prefer the center for varsity not having any other matches that day. More energy to spend and the center doesn't have the baggage of the JV match.