Be A Ref

Make the call. Stay active. Earn money. Build skills. Be part of the game.

Why Become a Football Official?

Love the Game

Deepen your understanding and stay actively connected to the sport you're passionate about.

Flexible Income

Earn $25–$45 per game. Choose your availability. Get paid for work you love.

Build Skills

Develop confidence, decision-making, and conflict resolution in a real-world environment.

Stay Active

Keep fit while working alongside young athletes. Maintain your passion for the sport.

Join a Community

Build relationships with fellow officials, coaches, and players from diverse backgrounds.

Advance Your Career

Clear pathways to high school, university, and even professional opportunities like the CFL.

What You Need to Know

Age & Experience

Minimum Age: 14 years old
Maximum Age: No limit. (we have officials that are 50+ years old)
Prior Experience: Not required (training provided)
Requirement: Good physical fitness, good communication skills, and willingness to learn

Cost & Earnings

Football Manitoba & Football Canada Membership/Insurance: $40
Equipment Cost: No upfront costs. We provide the starter gear kit
Pay Per Game: $25–$45; many officials work 2-4 games per day
First Season Games: 20–40 games possible

Your Path to the Whistle

Register

Attend Clinic

Level 1 training
(weekend before season)

Get Mentored

Paired with experienced officials

Start Officiating

Earn money & build experience

What You'll Need

Essential Equipment

Striped official's shirt
Black official's cap
Whistle
Penalty flag
Black pants
Black shoes (optional cleats)

Thanks to partnerships with Football Manitoba and Winnipeg Blue Bombers football club, MFRA is able to supply new officials with their starting equipment at minimal costs.

Common Questions

Do I need prior football experience? ▼

Absolutely not! Many excellent officials have learned the sport through MFRA training. We provide mandatory Level One clinics and mentorship to help you succeed, regardless of prior experience.

Will I have to work every weekend? ▼

No. Games are primarily on Saturdays and Sundays with some weeknight games. You set your availability based on your schedule, and assignments are made accordingly. You control how many games you want.

What are the advancement opportunities? ▼

Excellent! With good performance evaluations and dedication, you can advance to high school games, league championships, university games, and even professional opportunities like the Canadian Football League (CFL).

How much will I earn my first season? ▼

First-time officials earn $25–$45 per game. If you officiate 20–40 games in your first season (depending on availability), you could earn $500–$1,800+. Payments are issued at season end.

Ready to Earn Your Stripes?

Whether you're in it for the love of the game, extra income, or the chance to build new skills—your next great play is just a click away.