Saginaw Valley High School Soccer Referee Association

The Saginaw Valley High School Soccer Referee Association (SVHSSRA) is a nonprofit organization involved in the development and management of high school soccer referees in the Great Lakes Bay Region and Mid-Michigan areas of Michigan. As a registered and approved association of the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), the SVHSSRA is crucial in providing certified officials for soccer matches within over 40 high schools across Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Isabella, Midland, Ogemaw, Saginaw, and Tuscola Counties.

Mission and Activities

The association's primary mission is to ensure that high school soccer games are officiated fairly and safely by qualified referees. Members of the SVHSSRA must be certified through the MHSAA and adhere to strict standards of professionalism.

SVHSSRA officials utilize the ArbiterSports platform to manage their schedules, accept game assignments, and maintain compliance with the MHSAA’s contractual obligations. This includes honoring assignments and ensuring that all communication and availability are accurately recorded.

Structure and Operations

To join the SVHSSRA, individuals must first become registered officials with the MHSAA. Members are required to pay membership fees and stay current with their dues to remain active within the association. The organization provides field training sessions to enhance the skills of its members.

Game Assignments and Compensation

The compensation for referees varies based on the structure of the match. For example, in a varsity match using the diagonal system (one center referee and two assistant referees), the center referee is paid $115, while assistant referees receive $95 each. Different compensation rates apply for dual systems and sub-varsity matches.

Role in MHSAA Tournaments

To be eligible for MHSAA Tournament assignments, officials must meet additional criteria, including passing the MHSAA online rules test and maintaining good standing with the SVHSSRA. This ensures that only well-prepared and experienced officials officiate postseason matches.

Community Impact

The association plays a vital role in fostering sportsmanship and ensuring fair play in high school soccer across a large geographic area in Michigan. By providing trained and skilled referees, the SVHSSRA supports the development of student athletes and enhances the overall quality of high school sports in the region.