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Becoming an Official

Volleyball is one of the fastest growing youth sports across the United States.  Referees are needed now more than ever before.  If you are interested in becoming an official then you are in the right place.  We are always looking for dedicated and passionate individuals to join our ranks.  Did you know in this era of high school sports, referees and officials are a dying breed?  NFHS has been reporting an all time low population of officials across the country for several consecutive years.   Being an official is difficult but extremely rewarding.  There are many reasons why people seeking to become an official chooses volleyball: passion for the sport.  If you are considering becoming a sports official there is no time like NOW.  The student-athletes need YOU.  Without certified officials... school-based, organized, competitive sports would no longer exist.  Just let that sink in...  No.  More.  School.  Sports.  Period.

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Photo courtesy of: K. Anderson Photography

What does it take?

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Being an official is much more than showing up for a game and blowing a whistle.  It takes time, energy, dedication, and a little bit of pocket change.  You should have a solid grasp on the mechanics and basic rules of volleyball if you are to build a solid foundation in becoming an exceptional referee, but it isn't mandatory. But all potential referees MUST possess SAVOA's core values:​

  • Integrity

  • Professionalism

  • Honesty

  • Respect

  • Accountability

  • Reliability

photo courtesy of Michael Davis

It takes knowledge.  Sure, we know you don't know EVERYTHING there is to know about volleyball, and that is okay.  But as a referee spectators, parents, coaches, and players consider you the subject-matter expert regardless of your experience or understanding of the rules.  Parents, spectators, players, and coaches assume you know ALL the rules and how to apply every single one of them.  You don't have to know all the rules right out of the gate. Your entire officiating career you will be a "student of the game."  To be successful, you must posses a serious attitude, eagerness to learn, and willingness to study and enforce the rules. It takes courage.  Can you keep your composure when being taunted?  Can you speak with professionalism and authority when challenged by an energized coach?   Can you make the tough call consistently?  Can you be a steward of the game?  If the answer to ALL of these questions is "yes," then we are looking for YOU.

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photo courtesy of Michael Davis

Getting Started

You have already taken the first step: you are here.  So, you ready?  Let's do this!  

 

  1. Go to https://taso.org/  and click "apply" under the new applicant section

  2. Click "no" on following screen

  3. Click "volleyball" (applications must be open)

  4. Select "San Antonio" as your home chapter and click "next"

  5. Click "new member application" on following screen

  6. Continue to follow the on screen prompts and fill out the TASO application:

    1. Personal information​

    2. Background check

    3. Arrest/Conviction status

    4. Self-reporting acknowledgment

    5. Membership terms

    6. OCP requirement

    7. Payment (current fee for volleyball is $90 for new members)​​

  7. Fill out a SAVOA Application for Membership

  8. Submit your application to the Chapter Assigner with your chapter dues (currently $25)

  9. Fill out a contact card and we will be more than happy to assist you in the process or answer any questions you have.

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New applicants start here
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The first year may be a little confusing and overwhelming, but know that you will have an entire team to help you.  Just know that yu are not alone...  So, I am sure you are asking... How much does it cost to get started and what can I expect?

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Becoming a dues paying member of your local chapter (SAVOA) and the state organization (TASO) is mandatory.  But your dues cover a lot.  You will attended training and clinics (in most cases at no cost).  You will be provided some materials such as a current years' rule book and case book.  Dues can vary from year to year.  Currently, SAVOA dues are $25 for 2025 membership and TASO is generally around $100 for new members.  Also, as a first year member, you may be the recipient of some special surprises!

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Once you are registered with TASO and SAVOA and all dues paid you will be given access to ArbiterSports.  This is the platform that NFHS endorses for scheduling and paying out matches.  You will attend chapter meetings where you will meet the chapter leadership and your fellow members.  Don't be afraid to reach out if you have any questions!  We are one team. Check out the FAQs page for answers to some of the common questions.

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During the pre-season you will have to sit for a TASO officials clinic (don't worry, there is a clinic held here in San Antonio). A remote option may be available as well.  You must pass all appropriate rules exams and evaluations.  You will also be required to attend on-court training (summer league/pre-season matches/scrimmages) where your will receive direct feedback and your mechanics  and technique will be fine-tuned as well as your knowledge and application of rules evaluated.  You will be eligible to receive match assignments once this is complete.

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Finally, you will get access to the member's only area of the SAVOA website.  This will give you access to the complete chapter roster, in-house calendar, training recourses, documents, and much more.

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 What you're waiting for...JOIN TODAY!

Getting started
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