Become a Referee
The Beaver Valley Chapter of Football Officials is always looking for new members. If you feel you might be interested in wearing the stripes, let us know!
Prerequisites:
- NONE! No playing experience required - anyone can become a referee.
What do I need to do before I can officiate some games?
- Pass the PIAA Football exam. The PIAA now offers online applications and testing that can be taken online, anytime for all sports. To learn more, visit the PIAA website (link below).
- Obtain your clearances. See PIAA website for more details.
- Join a chapter. Your training and game assignments will typically come from the chapter you join.
- Have the proper uniform and equipment (see below).
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AT piaa.org
What kind of equipment do I need to purchase?
Below is a list of the items you need to purchase to officiate games. You can also buy used equipment from former officials to save on startup costs.
- Short sleeved 1-inch black/white striped shirt with PIAA patch on left sleeve.
- Long sleeved 1-inch black/white striped shirt with PIAA patch on left sleeve.
- Black undershirt (regular t-shirt).
- Black fitted hat with white piping.
- Black referee pants with white stripe. These pants come unhemmed, so you will need to have them hemmed.
- Black belt.
- Black crew socks.
- Black shoes. White soles and logos are now permitted.
- Accessories:
- Flag.
- Bean bag (blue).
- Whistle (Both lanyard and finger style whistles. No pea whistles.)
- Plastic re-usable game card w/ pencil and signal card
- Down indicator
- Chain clip
Below is a list of optional equipment.
- Short and Long sleeved 2" stripe shirts. Some crews wear 1" and others wear 2". It's a good idea to buy 2" stripes new and try to buy your 1" stripes used.
- Cold weather gear.
- Digital watch with count-down timer. Any brand will do. There are also smart watch apps.
- Black officiating shorts. Optional for sub-varsity and youth games. These are the authentic official's shorts with belt loops. You can buy these at Officially Sports. Mesh athletic shorts will no longer be permitted.
- Black ankle socks should be worn with shorts.
Where can I get this equipment?
There is a store that sells only officiating uniforms and equipment called "Officially Sports" in Sewickley. This would be the best option since you can try on your uniform and shoes before buying them. Visit the "links" section of our website for more info.
You could also buy your equipment online from a variety of online officiating stores, or buy used from a former PIAA official.
Who do I contact to join?
First, click here to apply at piaa.org.
To join our chapter, please contact one of our board members on the "Contact Us" page after you've passed your exam.