Question:
I have been refereeing since I was 11 years old and have been to many Regional and ODP events. This is my 4th year of refereeing. I was curious if there is a way around the minimum age requirement on the Grade 7 Referee Status. You must be 17 to become this grade, but is there a way to get this age requirement disregarded if someone approves it? If so, would it be the state, region, or USSF who would approve it?

USSF answer (August 31, 2010):
The requirements for upgrade are set by the U.S. Soccer Federation Board of Directors or the U.S. Soccer Referee Committee. They are the only bodies that can make this change. Consult your state association for advice on this.…