Coach + Referee Certification

USARL provides official pathways for coaches and referees to be trained, accredited, and recognized as part of the national governing body. Certification is required to ensure the game is delivered safely, fairly, and to international standards.

Why Certification Matters

  • Eligibility – Only certified coaches and referees can participate in USARL competitions.

  • Standards – Accreditation ensures consistent application of rules, safety protocols, and best practices.

  • Pathways – Certified officials gain access to advanced training, development programs, and opportunities to progress to national and international levels.

  • Credibility – Certification signals professionalism and recognition by the official U.S. governing body.

What’s involved

Become a USARL Game Official

The USARL is recruiting Referees and Touch Judges (Side Judges) for the 13-a-side Rugby League.

Who should apply

  • Current or former Rugby League officials

  • Officials from similar sports (Rugby Union, Touch, Soccer, etc.)

  • Rugby League ex-pats and newcomers willing to certify

Compensation & support

  • Referees: $95/game

  • Side Judges: $40/game

  • Side Judges in Training: $25/game

  • Mileage reimbursement + hotel if required by distance/time

Season & schedule

  • Mid-May to late August, Saturdays (afternoon/evening)

  • Opportunities to officiate international test matches

Become a Certified Rugby League Coach

The U.S. Association of Rugby League (USARL), in partnership with the European Rugby League (ERL), provides official pathways for coach education, training, and accreditation in the United States.

Why Get Certified?

Completing the ERL Level 1 Coaching Course equips you to:

  • Introduce Rugby League to new players

  • Teach and develop core skills

  • Organize teams and deliver effective training sessions

  • Apply basic sports psychology and physiology principles

  • Plan, deliver, and evaluate enjoyable, progressive coaching sessions

Course Structure

  • Home Study + 1 Day On-Course: Online modules and Zoom sessions followed by a one-day in-person course

  • Two-Day On-Course: Full face-to-face classroom and field delivery

Coaches who complete the course are certified for a period of 12 months. To become accredited, you must complete post-course CPD (CATO) within that year. Accreditation makes you eligible for higher-level qualifications.

Upcoming Course

  • Date: TBD

  • Location: TBD

  • Cost: $75

get certified

  • Coaches – Advance your career and help grow the game by completing USARL coaching accreditation. Courses cover player safety, technical development, and leadership skills.

  • Referees – Stay close to the action and ensure the integrity of the game. USARL referee certification provides training, evaluation, and assignments at domestic and international levels.