June 26-28 2026 at Chapman University in Orange, CA
“This is the best AYSO training session I have ever attended. The training was so much more than I expected.”It is a place where Referee Assessors learn how to combine a discerning eye with insightful analysis and positive commentary to improve the performance and effectiveness of Referees at any level of play. It is a place where Referee Instructors learn that theirs is one of the most crucial and demanding appointments in the organization. They learn the fine art of training volunteers in a non-threatening environment to be enthusiastic, productive contributors to their home Regions. Attendees benefit from top-level instructors, many of whom learned the craft from renowned FIFA referee, Ken Aston. Many of the instructors hold Section and National positions and are pledged to keeping Ken Aston’s Vision of the Spirit of the Game alive, making this an unparalleled learning experience for those in attendance. Attendees leave with a renewed sense of pride, a more refined understanding of how to contribute to their local organizations, and an energized spirit.
Principal Guest Instructor
Brian Hall is one of the most accomplished referees in American soccer history. His
officiating journey began at age 14 with American Youth Soccer Organization, where he
quickly developed a passion for the game and for officiating. His lifelong contributions to
the organization were later recognized with induction into the AYSO Hall of Fame.
At just 19 years old, Hall began officiating professional matches in the North American
Soccer League, becoming the youngest referee at the time to work in a professional soccer
league in the United States. His rapid rise through the officiating ranks reflected both
exceptional talent and a deep understanding of the game.
Hall became a FIFA referee in 1992 and served on the FIFA International Referees List for
15 years through 2007. During that distinguished international career, he achieved a
historic milestone as the first U.S.-born FIFA referee selected to officiate in the FIFA World
Cup and the first American retained through the tournament’s final stages, helping elevate
the international reputation of U.S. soccer officiating.
A four-time Major League Soccer Referee of the Year, Hall was recognized as one of the top
officials in league history, earning the award in 2003, 2005, 2006, and 2007.
Following his on-field career, Hall continued to shape the game globally through
leadership and administrative roles. He served for approximately eight years as
CONCACAF’s first Director of Referees, helping modernize referee development and
instruction throughout the region. Hall also served on the FIFA Referees Committee and on
The IFAB Technical Advisory Panel, contributing to discussions and decisions involving the
Laws of the Game and the advancement of officiating worldwide.
Throughout his career, Hall earned widespread respect for his composure, integrity,
consistency, and leadership on and off the field. Beyond officiating matches, he has played
a major role in mentoring, instructing, and developing future generations of referees in the
United States and internationally. In recognition of his contributions to U.S. Soccer, Brian
was awarded the Eddie Pearson award.
Hall’s legacy extends far beyond the matches he officiated. He is recognized as a pioneer
for American referees and as a leader whose career helped establish greater credibility,
professionalism, and visibility for U.S. officials on the world stage.
Intermediate Referee Course
This course enriches and builds upon the foundation training that was provided at the Regional Referee level with...
Advanced Referee Course
This exciting course builds upon the training and experience of the Intermediate Referee with an emphasis on...
National Referee Course
This course is the top-level officiating course offered by AYSO. It takes the Advanced Referee to a higher level of...
Referee Instructor Course
This course is the introductory training opportunity for those seeking to become Lead Referee Instructors authorized to...
Assessor Course
This course meets the training requirements to become a Referee Assessor by teaching the technical aspects of evaluating and assessing the officiating skills of...
National Assessor Course
Existing Referee Assessors learn the psychology of interacting with and assessing the ability of experienced referees who...
Advanced Referee Instructor Course
This course is the training opportunity for those seeking to be authorized to lead the Advanced Referee Course...








