HOUSTON SOUTHWEST SOCCER OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION
The Houston TASO Chapter of High School Soccer Officials
UIL AMENDS SUSPENSION OF ACTIVITIES DUE TO COVID-19
Updated, April 3, 2020 — In accordance with the Executive Order issued by Governor Greg Abbott mandating schools remain temporarily closed through Monday, May 4, 2020 due to COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the University Interscholastic League (UIL) is further modifying contingency plans and extending its previously announced timeline for completing UIL activities this academic school year.
These modifications are based on schools resuming operations on Monday, May 4, 2020. As that date approaches, UIL will monitor all available information and provide member schools with more specific guidance on district and post-season date adjustments related to this new extension.
All in-person practices, rehearsals and workouts remain suspended until further notice and remote instruction remains in place. UIL remains committed to providing a reasonable acclimatization period for rehearsals and practices to occur prior to resuming contests and games. All decisions remain flexible and will be consistent with the advice of local, state and federal officials.
The UIL will continue to provide timely, ongoing updates and is reassessing this ever-changing situation daily. Please continue to check the UIL website and social media accounts for further updates.
Upcoming Meetings & Events
Dealing with the Stress of COVID-19
An interactive online meeting to help HSSOA referees communicate around what they are dealing with and get some valuable coaching on effectively dealing with all that you are faced with right now. Presented by Christina Hutchinson, the online meeting will be Thursday, April 9, 7PM. Details are provided through an email sent to each referee.
April Chapter Meeting - Elections
April 2020 HSSOA Chapter meeting at Bayland Community Center at 6:30pm. Season wrap-up and elections. Directions to Bayland Community Center
LATEST HSSOA & TASO NEWS
TASO Update - CARES Act may help with missed game fees
April 3, 2020 - TASO News
Important information regarding the CARES Act (Corona-virus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)) has been released from TASO. This act may assist TASO referees in recovering lost revenue due to to the impacts of COVID-19 shutdowns. Please click the link below which will take you to the update page on the TASO website. You will find details provided by Mike Fitch, president of TASO. Go to the TASO Website to read the details.
Please Don't Have a Negative Account Balance
April 2, 2020 - HSSOA News
Should there not be any additional games for 2020, please check your account balance and make sure you do not have a negative balance. We ask that all referees to not carry a negative balance into the 2021 season. Please don't make your fellow referees pay for your assignments. Login and check your balance now!
Updated Version of NFHS Rules vs Myths Available
November 2, 2019 - HSSOA News
See the updated version of the NFHS the NFHS Rules vs Myths compiled by HSSOA referee James Spencer. A printable version is available so you can take this valuable document to the field with you. Go to the Rules vs Myth page.
TASO Proposes Game Fee Increase
April 22, 2019 - TASO News
At the UIL Sports Officials Committee (SOC) meeting on Monday, April 22, 2019, TASO submitted a game/match fee increase for all six TASO sports. The increase generally asked for a $10 increase for varsity assignments and a $5 increase for sub-varsity. If approved will be presented to the UIL Legislative Council at their October meeting. If approved by the Legislative Council, the increase will be effective for the 2020-2021 school year.
Tools to Become a Better Referee
Behind the Whistle: U.S. Soccer Referee and PNT Midfielder Greg Brigman at the DA Winter Showcase
Go behind the scenes with U.S. Soccer referee Greg Brigman during his time at the Development Academy Winter Showcase.
NFHS Rules Myth vs Fact
Myth: The rules permit coaches to criticize the referees as much as they like so long as they do not use foul, offense or insulting language.
Fact: Coaches should refrain from criticizing the referees in any manner that can be seen or heard by players or spectators.
See all rules myths →
US Soccer Referee Program
A great way to understand the Laws of the Game and become a high school referee is to first become a US Soccer certified referee. Their certification program will allow you to build a solid foundation for officiating the sport. Learn more at www.ussoccer.com/referees.
Read more →