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Youth Official,
Welcome to US Lacrosse, and to the web pages that present the procedures, programs, and practices of the Men’s Division Officials Council (MDOC) Youth Officials Committee (YOC)!
If you are new to lacrosse, let me welcome you to the most dynamic, and the fastest growing sport in the country. If you are new to officiating, let me welcome you to a challenging and rewarding avocation that will place you within the heart of this exhilarating game.
The sport of lacrosse is played in all 50 states, and it is the role of the YOC to provide the initial training materials, support programs, and officiating resources that are necessary for the development and success of youth lacrosse officials nationwide. The YOC represents the needs of those referees engaged in the introductory phase of lacrosse officiating (Level One training) determined by specific geographic districts.
However, given the diversity of the nation and the rapid expansion of the sport from its established roots, this first experience may imply officiating in midget (generally, U-9); elementary school (U-11); or middle school (U-15) lacrosse programs. Additionally, in some parts of the country, where youth lacrosse has not yet been established, Level One training can also mean an initial orientation at the scholastic, or even college levels of the game! Adding to this variety, youth lacrosse programs are often run by organizations as diverse as Parks & Recreation Departments, Police Athletic Leagues, private organizations, or public schools; all of which make the mission of the MDOC/YOC a challenging charter to administrate.
Toward this end, the YOC has been instrumental in developing the Level One Training Video (The Third Team on the Field), the Level One Training Program, the national Sportsmanship Card Program, the national Mentoring Program, the YOC Rep Program, a national Recruiting and Retention Guide, recruiting pamphlets, and our Lacrosse Referee Development (LAREDO) Clinics Many of these programs and guides can be found on the US Lacrosse website, and every one of these initiatives have been developed and sustained through US Lacrosse membership dues.
Our members are at the heart of everything that we do. And while training can be written onto a DVD, and rules can be consigned to a Power Point presentation, our knowledge and wisdom reside within our trained people. Courage, integrity, humility, and responsibility are the sustainable assets of men’s officiating. A great deal of our officiating success can be attributed to the character of our people: their personal conduct, dedication, and spirit of cooperation, are continually conveyed to athletes, coaches, spectators, and fans. One of our great advantages is that we are not just a nameless, faceless organization. When you wear the striped jersey, your identity is derived from the character of our membership. When you referee for the YOC, you become US Lacrosse, and you shoulder significant responsibilities.
We highly regard the efforts of all of our members. They move our vision. Your ideas strengthen the connection between membership and leadership, and help us to both look forward, and move ahead. We listen carefully to what you have to say, and seek innovative and timely solutions to your needs. Your participation is vital to the continued success of US Lacrosse. I urge you to take an active role in this organization by volunteering your time and expertise, participating in the YOC’s special projects, and supporting the MDOC /YOC convention programs. We are counting on your assistance to continue the rich traditions that have made lacrosse officiating the rewarding experience that it has always been.
Rod Korba, Chair
MDOC/Youth Officials Committee
• YOC Representatives List
• Click here to read about Membership
• Overview on Officials Training
• Details on Officials Training
• District Training Coordinators
• Youth Officials Assignors
• Return to the Main Officials Page
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