The Oakville Soccer Club is committed to the training and development of soccer match officials by providing an environment that allows them to maximize their potential within the profession. We offer a multi-tiered program focused on the various levels of soccer offered through OSC. These include both youth and adult categories. Club programs are focused on the recreational game and the development of fundamental skills for controlling the game.

Career Path

There are three levels of officiating offered at OSC in 2019 which include Game Leader (U7/8), Small Sided Game (U9/10), and Entry Level (U11+). Younger officials typically start in the Game Leader or Small Sided Game categories, as it allows them to develop both knowledge of the game and confidence in their abilities.

Game Leader (5v5 for U7/8)

Launched by Ontario Soccer in 2016, the Game Leader is a coaching designation and is intended to introduce players, coaches, and officials to the game, while encouraging learning, development, and overall enjoyment of the sport. It is currently implemented in all U7 and U8 games, and is administered by the Match Official Department. Candidates must be aged 12+ in the year they complete this certification. OSC views this program as a valuable introduction to being an official, as well as a coach. Candidates who complete a season as a Game Leader will be considered as returning officials in 2020, and will be given priority upon registration to a Small Sided Game certification course. 

Small Sided Game (7v7 for U9/10)

This game is for players from U9 and U10 with a modified set of rules designed to encourage skill development in the young player. There are no scores and no standings kept by the club with the focus on participation rather than results. The role of the official is to educate players and coaches as well as facilitate game management within the Laws of the Small Sided Game. In 2020, candidates for the Small Sided Game certification course must be born on March 31, 2008 or earlier.

Entry Level (9v9 for U11/12, 11v11 for U13-18 & Adult)

This game is for players from U11 to Adult and follows the FIFA Laws of the Game. The role of the official is to ensure that the laws of the game are followed in a safe environment. OSC also encourages officials to continue the process of education started in the Small Sided Game environment. It should be noted that U11 and U12 games are played in a 9v9 format on a modified field using FIFA Laws of the Game. The Oakville Soccer Club encourages all those aged 14+ to start their officiating career at this level, however they may also elect to start at the Small Sided Game level. In 2020, candidates for the Entry Level certification course must be born on March 31, 2006 or earlier.

Career Advancement

Opportunities exist for officials to upgrade their skills at various competitive levels. Working in collaboration with the Peel Halton District and Ontario Soccer, we provide a platform from which officials of all ages can progress through the regional and provincial programs available to them. We encourage all officials to upgrade their skills on a regular basis. Advanced training is available through Canada Soccer programs for qualified applicants.