High School Soccer Referee Pay: How Much They Earn

High school soccer referee pay can vary widely by state and league, but generally referees are paid per game. Typical pay rates are:

• Junior Varsity (JV) Games: Approximately $30 – $50 per game for the center referee. Assistant referees usually earn about $20 – $30 each for JV matches.
• Varsity Games: Usually $60 – $90 per game for the center referee. Assistant referees typically earn around $40 – $60 each.
• State Playoff Games: Playoff assignments often pay more. Expect around $90 – $120 or more for the center referee in tournament games, with $50 – $80 for ARs.
• Season Total: A busy high school soccer referee working both JV and varsity can earn several thousand dollars per season. For example, officiating three varsity games per week at $75 each amounts to $225 per week (before taxes).

Pay can differ by region. Larger school districts or state associations may set higher fees. For instance, in Kansas City, a varsity center referee might earn about $70-$90, while in other regions it could be more or less. Always check with local assigners or officials associations for exact rates in your area.

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How Earnings Add Up

Referees get paid for each game they officiate, so working multiple games is key. Many high school referees work both JV and varsity games at the same school, or officiate multiple schools’ games in an evening. Weekend tournaments or doubleheaders also increase weekly earnings. For instance, working two varsity games at $75 each yields $150 for that evening.

In some areas, referee fees include travel stipends. For example, if a game is far away, a small mileage allowance might be added. Confirm the payment and any additional compensation when accepting assignments.

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Comparison and Tips

High school soccer pay is generally lower than college soccer but higher than youth leagues. For comparison, college referees make $100+ per game, while high school referees average around $60. To maximize earnings:

• Work multiple games per week.
• Gain experience and positive evaluations to earn varsity and playoff assignments.
• Sign up for tournaments, as they often pay higher fees.

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Example: Kansas City Area

In Kansas City and other areas, the pay rates fall in a similar range. For example, KC Soccer Officials typically schedule games with rates around the mid-point of the ranges above. A KC center referee for a varsity match might earn about $70, while an assistant would make around $50. At the end of a full high school season, a dedicated referee can easily make several thousand dollars. For instance, if you work two varsity and two JV games per week at $60 each for 12 weeks, you'd earn $2,880 that season.

Even younger or less experienced referees can gain ground by attending junior referee clinics and shadowing. This early experience will help you be ready once you meet age and certification requirements. Organizations like KC Soccer Officials can guide you through these clinics and help you find games suited to your skill level.

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Getting Started

To become a high school referee, you typically need state certification (often through your high school federation) and a basic referee license from your local soccer federation. KC Soccer Officials can provide information on the steps to certification and assign new referees to games. They offer training and support for officials of all levels. Reach out to KC Soccer Officials to learn the exact pay scales in Kansas City, get certified, and start officiating. Lace up your shoes, and get ready for your first game!