Youth Sports Referee Trainee

Seasonal position funded through the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority Grant. Training provided to work toward IHSA certification and officiate Park District athletic programs.

About the role

The Rockford Park District is in business to “help people enjoy life” by providing a quality park and recreation system. Referees will participate in training to become IHSA Certified Referees and officiate games for programs including Jr. NBA, NFL Flag Football, and Spring Basketball. This role ensures a safe, positive experience for participants while supporting game operations, set-up, tear-down, and other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Attend and participate in training sessions to become an IHSA Certified Referee.
• Complete mandatory USA Football, NFL Flag Football, and Basketball referee certification courses.
• Referee games for Park District programs, including Jr. NBA, NFL Flag Football, and Spring Basketball.
• Assist program staff in set-up and tear-down of programs.
• Observe and practice officiating mechanics; participate in live training sessions.
• Support game operations, including scorekeeping or timekeeping as needed.
• Understand and address physical safety issues for participants.
• Communicate effectively with staff, participants, and coaches.
• Exhibit patience, maturity, and dependability in high-stress environments.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the site supervisor and referee assigner.

Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Good organizational and leadership skills.
• Working technical knowledge of a variety of sports, including basketball, football, and soccer.
• Ability to communicate well with supervisors, participants, and coaches.
• Ability to problem-solve in a variety of situations.
• Ability to perform in high-stress environments and establish effective working relationships.
• First Aid, CPR, and AED training (can be obtained through the Rockford Park District).

Physical Requirements

• Medium Work: Exerting in excess of 50 pounds of force occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly to move objects.
• Primarily stationed outdoors with regular exposure to dirt, noise, temperature extremes, and weather conditions.
• Exposure to outdoor elements, hazardous vegetation, and insect bites.
• Ability to stand for the majority of the shift.

Pay

$16/hour