This show, Ira is joined by Alex Prus from the Professional Referee Organization (PRO). They talk about referee development and the pathway to becoming a professional referee. Alex spends time noting the tiers of PRO2 referees and how one moves from lower professional divisons up to MLS. The two also talk about the challenges of assigning referees in such a large geographical area such as the United States.

Alex discusses the challenges of implementing Video Assistant Referees (VAR) for the lower divisions. He says it basically comes down to cost. Getting into the specifics, Alex notes the cost of setting up VAR in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

If You’re Considering A Referee Career

Finally, Alex asked that those interested in potentially pursuing a career as a professional referee go to PRO2Referees to get more information and to contact PRO2, which is the level of referees covering USL League One, USL Championship and NWSL.

On twitter Jason is @homesweetsoccer, Ira is @irajersey and the show is @league1fun.

What is League One Fun

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha. The league also includes USL Championship second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS2 sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

Find our last show here Episode 64: Time to Argue