Texas Association of Sports Officials

Soccer San Antonio

ADMINISTRATIVE

PROCEDURES

HANDBOOK

University Interscholastic League

National Federation

Of

State High School Associations

Approved on 10-17-07 at membership meeting

Updated 12-02-08 

ASSIGNMENT POLICIES & PROCEDURES

INTRODUCTION:

The objective of the assignment policies and procedures is to be fair with assignments, which offer smaller or less skilled schools the opportunity to use higher level officials when possible. This provides equality and fairness among the officials. It exposes them to matches at various skill levels and the opportunity to officiate next to a senior official. This also enhances their consistency and fairness in the application and understanding of THE RULES versus THE SPIRIT of the game.

We propose to display the highest level of professionalism and discipline. In implementing the TASO Code of Ethics to its fullest, it insures integrity and honesty through service and dedication, thereby minimizing conflict of interest and the solicitation of games and matches.

MATCH RANKING AND SCHOOL ASSIGNMENTS:

Each match is ranked for each playing date. Level 1 being the most skilled and competitive and level 5 being the least competitive. The ranking is based on previous or present record, skill level, fitness, teamwork, and self‑discipline. The Scheduling Committee, which consists of officials at different levels when possible.

CRITERIA FOR OFFICIAL ASSIGNMENTS:

Each official has a grade level rating with one (I) being the highest level and five (V) being the entry level. Grading and upgrading are done by successful completion of all requirements set forth in the section entitled, Criteria for Certifying and Upgrading.

Each Center Official is assigned/replaced by matching his/her level with a ranked match of a similar level. Consideration is also given to his/her management skills, Conflict of Interest Statement, availability, flexibility, professionalism, and personality. Assistant Referee can be assigned up to two (2) levels above their current grade.

Individual game assignments are done by the Board appointed Assignment/Scheduling committee. The scheduling process is assisted by a computer scheduling program. This program takes into account the above mentioned criteria including, limiting the number of appearances an official can have with any one team, to only three (3). All assignments are done at least three (3) weeks in advance, and are approved by The Board of Directors.

PROVISIONS FOR OFFICIAL UPGRADE ASSIGNMENTS:

An official must officiate at the next highest level to accumulate experience and to be certified competent at that level. Care must be exercised in the assignment process to increase the difficulty level of the game assignments in a gradual and orderly manner for the benefit of the official and the teams.

RESTRICTIONS FOR OFFICIAL SELF‑ASSIGNMENTS:

An official shall not accept or exchange games with another official without the Vice President of scheduling written approval. All assignments, re-assignments, and cancellations must be done through the Assignor and/or Vice President of Scheduling. An official has the obligation to honor any game assigned by the San Antonio Chapter, over any other assignment. Failure to abide by this policy will result in disciplinary action.

CRITERIA FOR GAME ASSIGNMENTS:

LEVEL 5:

Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

Badge: Current Year Member in good standing

Recommended Assignment Level: Middle School and Junior Varsity Referee, Level 3 and below AR.

LEVEL 4:

Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

Badge: Current Year Member in good standing

Recommended Assignment Level: Level 4 and below Varsity Referee, Level 2 and below AR.

LEVEL 3:

Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

Badge: Current Year Member in good standing

Recommended Assignment Level: Level 3 and below Varsity Referee, Level 1 and below AR. Bi‑district, area and sectional AR.

LEVEL 2:

Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

Badge: Current Year Member in good standing

Recommended Assignment Level: Level 1 and below Varsity Referee including Bi‑district, area, sectional, and quarter final playoff games. All levels of AR to include State playoff recommendation.

LEVEL 1:

Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

Badge: Current Year Member in good standing

Recommended Assignment Level: All level Referee and AR to include State playoffs.

OFFICIAL EMERITUS:

Badge: Current Year Member in good standing

Recommended Assignment Level: Level 3 and below Varsity Referee, Level 1 and below AR. Bi‑district, area and sectional AR. within two (2) years of emeritus status.

HONORARY LEVEL:

Badge: None

Recommended Assignment Level: None.

OFFICIALS INSTRUCTION PROGRAM

INTRODUCTION:

The TASO Instruction Program is an attempt to standardize officiating techniques and mechanics at all levels of play. The objective is to enhance consistency and fairness in the application and understanding of the Rules versus the Spirit and management of the game.

MECHANICS:

No other signals or systems of communication between referees and assistant referees are authorized for games under the jurisdiction of the National Federation, and The United States Soccer Federation, Guide to Procedures for Referees, Assistant Referee and Fourth Officials.

TOPICS:

The Instruction Program is divided in three (3) major subjects:

1. Mechanics - Communication procedures for referees and AR;

2. Play Rulings - National Federation High School Soccer Rules, applications, questions and answers, match situations, and

3. Game Management - Covers match control, gamesmanship and playing tactics.

INSTRUCTION PERSONNEL:

The Game Mechanics section shall be taught by a current registered Senior Official Level I ‑ I E or Level II ‑ IIE. The Play Rulings shall be taught by a current registered USSF or NISOA instructor, and The Game Management shall be taught by a current registered USSF state instructor when possible. (Level I, Level II, or Emeritus official)

REFERENCES:

UIL Constitution and Contest Rules

NFHS Soccer Rule Book

FIFA Laws of the Game, Current Year

USSF Guide to Procedures for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials

NISOA Guide to Procedures for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials

NOTE: All References are the most current version of the document.

OFFICIALS GUIDELINES ON OFFENSES AND FINES

All offenses must be received in writing by the Grievance and Ethics Committee or by the appointed person(s) within three (3) days of the incident. Failure to report offenses shall result in disciplinary action or dismissal.

OFFENSE	1ST OFFENSE*	2ND OFFENSE	3RD OFFENSE
1. Late show or Improper uniform	Reprimand	2nd Reprimand Fine: 1/2 game fee	2 wks suspension
2. Failure to show	Reprimand Fine: 1/2 game fee	2nd. Reprimand Fine: 1 game fee	4 wks suspension
3. Violation of TASO Code of Ethics	Reprimand	4 wks suspension	Season suspension
4. Usage of Foul or abusive language	Reprimand 4 wks suspension	2nd. Reprimand 8 wks suspension	Season suspension
5. Verbal threat**	Reprimand 4 wks suspension	2nd. Reprimand 8 wks suspension	Season suspension
6. Assault or violent conduct	Season suspension	5 Season suspensions	10 Season suspension
7. Failure to attend C.O.P.E.***	Will not be allowed to work post district games, and should not be used for regular season games. Exceptions will be handled through the UIL and San Antonio Chapter Office respectively.
8. Failure to file an TASO Incident Report	Failure of an Official to file a report on time (24 hrs) for either severe verbal abuse, intentional physical contact, ejection of coaches, early termination of the contest for other than natural causes or removal of a fan from the field for disruptive behavior, may be grounds for disciplinary action which includes, but is not limited to, a reprimand, fine, probation, suspension, or expulsion from membership by TASO. Offices.

* All offenses will be considered on a case by case basis.

** Verbal Threat is any form of taunting which is intended or designated to embarrass, ridicule or demean others under any circumstances including on the basis of race, religion, gender of national origin. Personal harm or threat of violence, either explicit or implied while in uniform.

*** Failure to attend any mandatory meeting without notifying the Chapter Secretary and without reasonable cause shall result in a week suspension and one (1) game fee, pending determination by the Grievance and Ethics Committee.

NOTE: Offense 3 applies to officials as a parent, fan, spectator, coach, or assessor.

Offenses 4, 5, and 6 apply to officials in uniform.

ACCUMULATION PROCEDURES:

In addition to the penalties, any official accumulating three reprimands within a season (August through April), will be suspended for four (4) weeks. Suspension time will coincide with the soccer season. Any suspension time remaining at the end of a season will be carried over to the next season and commence after being registered and with the date of the first match of the season.

All appeals shall be submitted in writing directly to the Discipline and Protest Committee.

FIELD ASSESSMENT OF REFEREE AND ASSISTANT REFEREES

INTRODUCTION:

The objective of The Assessment Program is to assist officials at all levels, to improve and enhance their skills, to provide consistency in the application and in understanding the rules and the spirit of the game.

We propose to display the highest level of professionalism through service and dedication to the players, coaches, administrators and fellow officials.

We propose to reinforce the idea that our officiating is an educational, social, and recreational extension of the entire school curriculum. Our goal is to stimulate wholesome officiating throughout the Chapter membership through excellence.

UPGRADING:

In order for a TASO official to be upgraded, the official should be in the present grade for twelve (12) months, except from level 5 to level 4.

USSF TRANSFERS:

Referee, who has been upgraded to a USSF grade 7 referees, meet the requirements for up‑grading to level III. Referee, who has been upgraded to a USSF grade 6 referees, meets the requirements for upgrading to level II, after successfully completing C.O.P.E. training.

DOWNGRADING:

An official may be downgraded if the official fails to meet any of the requirements for his/her grade. An official can only be registered at the level where he/she meets the requirements. If an official is downgraded, he/she does not have to spend a year in the lower grade. The official may be upgraded when he/she again meets the requirements for that level.

NON-REGISTERED OFFICIALS (Previous Year):

Any official, who was not registered with TASO the previous year, may be certified at the grade previously held after meeting his/her Annual Renewal Requirements. Any official, who has not been registered for two (2) consecutive years, may be registered at the level immediately below the grade previously held. Once requirements are achieved, the referee will be upgraded to the previous level.

ASSESSMENT PERSONNEL:

Assessment of an official for the purpose of upgrading must be conducted by a currently certified and registered USSF or NISOA assessor with the exception of level V to level IV. Level V to level IV upgrade assessment can be conducted by an emeritus in good standing, or a senior level I or level II official. Assessments for level I or level II should be conducted by a USSF state assessor or higher.

TIME BETWEEN ASSESSMENTS OF REFEREES:

Three (3) weeks shall be the lapse time between assessments. When more than one assessment is required, at least one must be a UIL/NF league match. A written assessment response shall be sent within seven (7) days from the date of the assessment, providing fees are paid.

FEES:

Advancement or future assessments will not take place until fees have been paid

PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

A Physical fitness test is required for annual renewal and upgrading for the official level shown. The test can be administered by designated USSF, NISOA or TASO clinicians. A certification signed by the individual administering the test is required. The fitness test must be taken within a six (6) month period preceding the start of the new season.

CRITERIA FOR CERTIFYING AND UPGRADING - LEVEL I

1. Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

2. Experience:

a. Referee: 100 games with a minimum of 60 being UIL/NF league level I or level II, and 40 for amateur division II or U‑17 division 1 or higher level games

b. Assistant Referee: 50 games for UIL/NF league any level or amateur division III or U‑16 division 1 or higher games

c. Time in present grade: Twelve (12) months as level II and a member in good standing of both TASO. and the local chapter prior to application

3. Special training requirements: Five (5) hours of advanced referee training

4. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

5. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

6. Written test: 85% minimum

7. Field assessment: One- (1) assessments as a referee and one (1) as an Assistant Referee in a level I or II UIL/NF league game

8. Physical fitness test: Yes (USSF or NISOA tests are acceptable)

ANNUAL RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

A. In-service training: Five (5) hours during the preceding twelve (12) months

B. Written test: 85% minimum

C. Field assessment: Yes. One (1) annual field assessment as referee in division I or higher

D. Physical fitness test: Yes (USSF or N.I.S.O.A .tests are acceptable)

E. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

F. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

G. The Official should have demonstrated a continuing interest in officiating beyond himself. He/She should not only be a capable official, but should be or have been involved in some facet of education, assessment, or management of officials either for this association or another. He/She should also have demonstrated a long term support for this association by his/her attendance at association meetings and functions, accepting assignments, showing support for other officials, and keeping himself/herself mentally and physically fit.

NOTE: Transfer as level I from another State or Texas District is not accepted.

CRITERIA FOR CERTIFYING AND UPGRADING - LEVEL II

1. Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

2. Experience:

a. Referee: 75 games with a minimum of 40 being UIL/NF league level I or level II, and 35 for amateur division II or U‑17 division 1 or higher games

b. Assistant Referee: 50 games with UIL/NF league at any level or amateur division III or U‑16 division 1 or higher games

c. Time in present grade: Twelve (12) months as level III and a member in good standing of both TASO. and the local Chapter prior to application

3. Special training requirements: Five (5) hours of advanced referee training

4. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

5. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

6. Written test: 80% minimum

7. Field assessment: One (1) assessment as a referee and one (1) as an Assistant Referee in a level II or higher UIL/NF league game

8. Physical fitness test: Yes (USSF or NISOA tests are acceptable)

ANNUAL RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

A. In-service training: Five (5) hours during the preceding twelve (12) months

B. Written test: 80% minimum

C. Field assessment: Yes One (1) field assessment as referee at

Level II or higher UIL /NF league game.

D. Physical fitness test: Yes (USSF or NISOA tests are acceptable)

E. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

F. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

G. The Official should have demonstrated a continuing interest in officiating beyond himself. He/She should not only be a capable official but should be or have been involved in some facet of education, assessment, or management of officials either for this association or another. He/She should also have demonstrated a long term support for this association by his/her attendance at association meetings and functions, accepting assignments, showing support for other officials, and keeping himself/ herself in good mental and physical condition.

NOTE: Transfer as level II from another State or Texas District is not accepted.

CRITERIA FOR CERTIFYING AND UPGRADING - LEVEL III

1. Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

2. Experience:

a. Referee: 75 games with a minimum of 40 being UIL/NF league level III or higher, and 35 for amateur division III or U‑17 or higher games

b. Assistant Referee: 30 games for UIL/NF league any level or amateur division III or U‑16 or higher games

c. Time in present grade: Twelve (12) months as level IV and a member in good standing of both TASO. and the local Chapter prior to application

3. Special training requirements: No additional requirements

4. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

5.  Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

6. Written test: 75% minimum

7. Field assessment: One (1) assessment as a referee in a level III or higher UIL/NF league game

8. Physical fitness test: Yes (USSF or NISOA tests are acceptable)

ANNUAL RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

A. In-service training: Five (5) hours during the preceding twelve (12) months

B. Written test: 75% minimum

C. Field assessment: None required

D. Physical fitness test: Yes (USSF or NISOA tests are acceptable)

E. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

F. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

NOTE: Transfer as level I or level II from another State or Texas District is accepted at level III. 

CRITERIA FOR CERTIFYING AND UPGRADING - LEVEL IV

1. Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

2. Experience:

a. Referee: 50 games with a minimum of 20 being UIL/NF league level IV or higher, and 30 for amateur division III or U‑15 or higher games

b. Assistant Referee: 15 games for UIL/NF league any level or amateur division III or U‑16 or higher games

c. Time in present grade: Twelve (12) months as level V and a member in good standing of both TASO and the local Chapter prior to application

3. Special training requirements: Successful completion of the entry level USSF Referee Training Course

4. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

5. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

6. Written test: 75% minimum

7. Field assessment: None required

8. Physical fitness test: None required

ANNUAL RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

A. In-service training: Five (5) hours during the preceding twelve (12) months

B. Written test: 75% minimum

C. Field assessment: None required

D. Physical fitness test: None required

E. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

F. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

CRITERIA FOR CERTIFYING AND UPGRADING - LEVEL V

1. Minimum Age: As set forth by TASO-Soccer

2. Experience:

a. Referee: N/A

b. Assistant Referee: N/A

C Time in present grade: N/A

3. Special training requirements: Successful completion of the entry level USSF Referee Training Course.

4. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings.

5. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

6. Written test: 75% minimum

7. Field assessment: None required.

8. Physical fitness test none required.

ANNUAL RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

A. In-service training: Five (5) hours during the preceding twelve (12) months

B. Written test: 75% minimum

C. Field assessment: None required

D. Physical fitness test: None required

E. Chapter attendance: 50% attendance at local Chapter meetings

F. Attendance at C.O.P.E. training: Yes

NOTE: This level will be the entry level for all new members regardless of the ranking or grade in their respective soccer organization.

CRITERIA FOR OFFICIAL EMERITUS AND HONORARY GRADE

OFFICIAL EMERITUS

The purpose of the emeritus grade is to retire from the highest level the official has attained and may not be used to circumvent the testing and registration procedures of the association.

The emeritus level or grade allowed a level I, level II or level III, the option of retiring from those levels of officiating while retaining that grade and continuing to officiate at a lower level.

To become an emeritus official, the official must submit a personal letter of intent, to the San Antonio Chapter Secretary who will initiate the appropriate paper‑ work. The official must have held the grade or level for a minimum of three (3) years prior to the request.

Active emeritus official must qualify each year for the level he/she will be officiating and pay the prevailing fees for that level.

HONORARY GRADE:

An official who retires from officiating completely may retain his highest level or grade as an honorary grade.

To become an honorary grade official, the official must submit a personal letter of intent, or make a call with the intent, to the San Antonio Chapter Secretary who will initiate the appropriate paperwork.

Honorary Grade officials will not receive a patch, but will receive a membership card, rule book and other material sent with the annual registration packet, while the official is a resident in the San Antonio Chapter service area.

There is no time in grade requirement to be eligible for this grade.