Ask the HVSRA Referee

Frequently (and not so frequently) asked questions about HVSRA, refereeing, and things generally about soccer

Who is HVSRA?

Hudson Valley Soccer Referee Association (HVSRA) is made up of United States Soccer Federation (USSF) certified (licensed) officials. Our association is approximately 500 members strong, and the largest geographical district in Eastern New York. Our officials start as Referees [formerly grassroots], and have the ability to move up to Regional serving local youth and adult amateur leagues. Our Association has seen a number of our members go farther to National and Pro officials. Regardless of the level that our officials achieve, we feel that our officials are some of the best in the country.

Does it cost anything to become a certified referee?

Yes. The initial fees to become a Referee official is $170.00 [payable to USSF and ENYSRA], plus $50.00 [HVSRA dues]. The fees include registration, instruction, and your first uniform. Further information is on our “New Referees” page. Once you become a certified referee, you will likely be assigned to youth matches on Saturday mornings. In-house (recreational) fees are determined by the club and generally less than the Travel matches, held on Sundays. You will likely make up your initial fees within 4-6 matches.

When and where are the matches?

In-house (recreational) matches, are typically held on Saturday mornings and early afternoons. Youth travel (EHYSL) matches are typically held on Sunday afternoons, where many of the players are also referees. Premier leagues [Elite Academy, USYS, EDP North Atlantic] and other more competitive leagues are held on both Saturday or Sunday, with few matches held during the week.

Matches are held on both natural grass and artificial turf fields throughout the Hudson Valley. You can visit the page “Who is HVSRA” for further information, but we serve all of Dutchess, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, and Ulster Counties; along with a few clubs in northern Westchester, AND Pike County, PA. We do not serve Columbia County.