Course Overview

IREF Training Programs

IREF Courses

One fully available online course. Two more available by request.

Now Available

Recreational Soccer Referee

Required for all first-time referees. Five modules designed to prepare you for everything that happens on and off the field — in about two to three hours of self-paced coursework.

Screenshot of the IREF course interface showing lessons in the sidebar and video content
The IREF course interface — video lessons, module progress, and assessments all in one place.

Course Modules

  1. 1
    The Secret Sauce

    The mindset of players, parents, coaches, and referees — and why it matters before the opening whistle.

  2. 2
    Laws of the Game

    Player equipment, offside, fouls, misconduct, and the recreational-specific rules that vary by club.

  3. 3
    Mental Ninja: Applying the Sauce

    Pre-match protocols, positioning, communication, and handling pressure from the sideline.

  4. 4
    You Make the Call

    Real game footage. Apply your skills to live referee decisions before ever stepping on the field.

  5. 5
    Assessment

    Complete your official IREF certification.


What You Receive

  • 🆕 IREF patch
  • 📌 Red and yellow cards
  • 🏅 Certificate for the calendar year
  • 🛒 Uniforms, whistles & flags available in shop

Additional Programs

These programs are in development or scheduled as remote events. Submit a request and Mark will reach out to schedule.

By Request

IREF Advanced Course

Match Management & Advanced Mechanics

For referees who have completed the Recreational Soccer Referee course. Covers advanced match management in depth: fear, optics, mechanics for referees and ARs, communication, positioning, and fitness.

Requires: Completed Recreational Soccer Referee course. Referee account required to request.

Log in to request access to this program.

Remote Event

Ask the Ref

For Coaches & Club Administrators

A live remote session covering the most misunderstood calls and procedures in soccer: signals, free kicks, handling, advantage, dissent, and how to communicate with and support your referee crew.

For: Coaches and club administrators. A coach or club admin account is required to request.

Log in to request access to this program.

Ready to Start?

Register now to get access to the Recreational Soccer Referee course — IREF's 10-year-proven training program.