Through partnerships with USYS, MLS NEXT, and more, the Women's Initiative is able to host officials at tournaments across the country. These officials get to referee matches with an all-female crew, attend classroom development sessions, and participate in practical trainings with U.S. Soccer staff and esteemed referee coaches.
- U.S. Youth Soccer (Ongoing partnership): Historically, the partnership between U.S. Soccer and USYS allows referees to attend USYS events across the country at no cost. Referees are able to officiate games with all-women crews during the day and attend development sessions each night. Previously, standout referees from these tournaments have been selected for the National League Finals or to participate in our exchange program with the Japanese Football Association.
- MLS NEXT Fest (December 2025): 16 referees were invited to the MLS NEXT Fest in Mesa, AZ to sharpen their skills and learn from the selected U.S. Soccer coaches and PRO staff from MLS NEXT. Referees for this group included up and coming talent at the referee level as well as Regionals about to try for their first National badge. Participation at this event challenged their ability on the pitch and encouraged collaboration across the delegation.
- Dallas Cup (March/April 2026): The Women’s Initiative attended Dallas Cup 2026 as part of a wider U.S. Soccer delegation, including referees from the United Officials Group and a first-of-its-kind National Refereeing Academy. Participants were able to officiate with their fellow WI members, attend group debriefs, and engage in education sessions with U.S. Soccer coaches, current FIFA officials, and representatives from CONCACAF. As part of the wider U.S. Soccer delegation, the WI participants were also able to collaborate with the United Officials Group and recently upgraded National Match Officials.
