FAQ

What kind of time commitment should I expect?     That's up to you. In a given season, some officials work as many as 200 games and some as little as a few games. Most do anywhere from 25-60 games. Time spent studying the rules can add to the time dedicated to officiating, but this is at the discretion of each individual official.

How much money can I make?     The pay varies from league to league and according to the level of play. We also offer excellent incentive packages for games work, new officials recruited, etc.

 What's needed to get started?     We will guide you through the entire process, which starts with contacting Sports Officials NW.  Next, a uniform and equipment are required. We will walk you through this process:

A uniform shirt/pants can cost as little as $100 and an equipment starter package will run as low as $150. (See our list of equipment suppliers for more information.)
For the budget conscious, secondhand equipment is available to new members at a fraction of the cost. We also have used equipment for high school and college students can use during the season (no cost). Officials usually find the initial outlay of cash for equipment and apparel negligible compared to the potential income from game fees or Sports Officials NW can do a starter package as a game draw (no upfront funds needed)

Additionally, clinics and training materials are optional expenses. Sports-officials insurance is available from third-party organizations such as the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO).

As an official in Washington, your independent-contractor status makes these expenses tax-deductible.

Do I have to have playing experience prior to officiating?     NO. Your dedication to the sport and desire to be part of it is all that is required.
 
Do I have to take a test? Attend training?     As part of the our training, we hold classes with our new officials to ensure they understand their role as an official. Regular, intense training is provided by Sports Officials NW to improve our officials’ skill levels.

What levels of officiating can I call?     Experience, skill, dedication and hustle influence games assigned. The opportunities available to Sports Officials NW range from youth League to adult.

Will I receive feedback?     Your performance on the field directly correlates to your satisfaction with Officiating. Providing you with feedback is a priority and we make every effort to make that feedback worthwhile.
 
Is there a minimum age?     The minimum age is 16.

Must I be physically fit?     Officiating can be as strenuous as playing. We require that officials are able to arrive at plays quickly so the best judgment is applied to every situation.

How much travel is involved?     Officials find that game sites are not far from where they live or work. Travel is always left to the preference of the individual official and depending on the distance, travel reimbursement and housing will be offered. The location of your job and home can influence these preferences. Some officials, however, find better variety and quality-of-play as an incentive for additional travel.

Would I be an employee of the Sports Officials NW?     NO. As an official, you are considered an independent contractor. Your independent contractor status gives you the bonus of tax deductibility of your expenses.