The Third Team

Join REFSIX with a 20% discount.

REFSIX - The App for Football/Soccer Referees The world's best timer and performance tracker. Trusted in over a million matches!

ThirdTeam Officials — heads up! We're switching scheduling platforms for 2026. We're moving off Assignr to Refr Sports, a Minnesota-based platform that saves us some money.

You'll be getting an invite to join Refr Sports soon — it's legit, please accept it if you plan to officiate with us this year.

Questions? Drop them below or message me directly.

Thanks for rolling with us!
— Marty

ATTENTION OFFICIALS & FUTURE REFEREES — Two things happening Sunday, April 19!

NEW OFFICIALS — DON'T WAIT ANY LONGER

If you've been thinking about becoming a soccer referee, or if you've already signed up but haven't started your online coursework — NOW is the time. The in-person clinic is coming up fast.

New Referee Certification Course (In-Person Clinic)
Sunday, April 19 · 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
West Rapids Elementary School

You MUST complete the U.S. Soccer online coursework before attending. If you're still working through it, get it done this week.

This entry-level U.S. Soccer Grassroots Referee Certification is a great fit for high school and college students, former players, parents, and community members.

Why become a referee?
✔ Learn the Laws of the Game
✔ Build leadership & decision-making skills
✔ Stay involved in the sport you love
✔ Get paid — youth refs typically earn $20–$50 per game
✔ Flexible scheduling

Once certified, The Third Team Officials Association will help connect you with local assignments, mentoring, and support for your first games.

CURRENT OFFICIALS — The Third Team RefReps Check-In #1

Sunday, April 19 · 12:30 – 1:30 PM
West Rapids Elementary School

Right after the new referee clinic, we're holding our first formal meeting of The Third Team Officials Association for the 2026 season. All current officials are encouraged to be there. Great opportunity to connect, align for the season ahead, and get things started on the right foot. More details on the agenda to follow.

Questions? Reach out to Marty:
[email protected]
218-259-3129

See you on April 19!

www.the3rdteam.org

Virtual Check-In — Get Your Questions Answered
Not sure where to start? Have a quick question? I’m hosting a virtual check-in on both

Sunday and Monday night this coming week. Same meeting each night — just pick the one that works best for you.

Sunday, March 15th at 7:00 PM — Google Meet: https://calendar.app.google/HRrgm2ZZjUgh4SF16

Monday, March 16th at 7:00 PM — Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/fqy-psjo-jch

We’ll cover the basics: what you need to do, how to register, what to expect at the clinic, and anything else on your mind. Come with questions — there are no bad ones.

Assistant Referee Mechanics for fouls. Yes, I know there is a ton to consider before an AR signals for a foul. That is something that should be covered in pregame. I’ve also done other videos regarding AR “areas of influence” which is briefly addressed in this video.

How to Become a Referee (US Soccer Grassroots)

The Third Team - Updates How to Become a Referee (US Soccer Grassroots)

2025 Year in Review:

The Third Team - Updates 2025 (Archive) 2025 Referee Season Recap & 2026 Preview

As we head into the fall season, please take a few minutes to update your referee availability. We have nearly 80 matches scheduled in Grand Rapids this fall, including:

6v6 In-House League
U12 & U14 Matches
JV & Varsity Matches in Hibbing and Grand Rapids

Scheduling notes:
6v6, U12 & U14 – Most often on Sundays
JV & Varsity – Mostly weeknights with some Saturdays

How to update your availability:

Log in to Assignr.
Set availability by location, date, and time – This is the most important step. For example, if you select only West Rapids Elementary, you’ll likely be assigned in-house and U12 games at most.
Mark the days and times you are able to work so we can avoid offering you games you can’t attend.

For step-by-step instructions with screenshots, visit:
https://support.assignr.com/en/articles/8526484-managing-your-availability

Updating your preferences will help us assign matches more smoothly and ensure you get games that fit your schedule and comfort level.

Thanks for taking a moment to do this soon — it makes a big difference in keeping our season running smoothly!

Sean "Marty" Martinson
www.the3rdteam.org
(C) 218-259-3129

Managing Your Availability | Assignr Help Center Use Availability to communicate the days, times, locations, and assignors you are willing to work for on a day-by-day basis.

Reminder. MSHSL meeting tonight in Grand Rapis. 6:00pm. Student officials too! Contact: 218-259-3129gj

The Third Team - Updates Interested in Reffing JV Start Here!