Which age groups typically require an Intermediate Referee in AYSO?

The age group that typically requires an Intermediate Referee in AYSO is 12 to 14 years old. Referees in this category are tasked with managing games where players have developed more advanced skills and a higher understanding of the game. By this age, players are often participating in more competitive matches, which necessitate a referee who is equipped to handle the complexity of the game, including enforcing the Laws of the Game more consistently and making more nuanced decisions.

In these matches, players not only engage in a wider variety of strategies and tactics, but the dynamics of the game can also be more intense. An Intermediate Referee is trained to deal with the greater demands of officiating at this level, ensuring that the game is played safely and fairly. The level of decision-making, communication, and game management skills required is higher than in the younger age groups, making a knowledgeable referee essential for maintaining order and ensuring a positive experience for players, coaches, and spectators alike.