Wilson Spring Flag Football – Junior Referee Program Overview

Ages 13–15: Junior Referees
Ages 16 & Up: Lead Referees

The Wilson Junior Referee Program is designed to develop young leaders while ensuring high-quality officiating throughout our Spring Flag Football season. Junior Referees (ages 13–15) will work directly alongside experienced Lead Referees (ages 16 and up) to learn proper mechanics, field control, and rules of play in a safe, structured environment.

Program Purpose

Build leadership and confidence in young athletes.

Teach responsibility, communication, and sportsmanship.

Provide work experience and a chance to earn money during the season.

Strengthen the quality of officiating within our league.

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Junior Referee Responsibilities (Ages 13–15)

Assist Lead Referees with spotting the ball, down markers, and sideline coverage.

Help monitor player safety and rule compliance.

Learn game flow, basic hand signals, and on-field communication.

Support pre-game and post-game processes (equipment check, score reporting).

Supervision

Junior refs will never work alone.
They are always paired with a Lead Referee (16+ or adult) on the field.

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Lead Referee Responsibilities (16 and Up)

Serve as the primary game official.

Mentor Junior Referees each week.

Manage game pace, enforcement of rules, and on-field conduct.

Provide guidance and feedback during and after games.

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Training

All referees receive:

Rules and mechanics training

On-field walk-through demonstrations

Mentoring during real games

Weekly improvement notes

Payment Structure

Junior Referees receive a stipend per game.

 

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Expectations

Be reliable and on time

Wear the assigned uniform

Show respect to players, coaches, and spectators

Maintain focus, fairness, and professionalism

Be coachable and willing to learn