Programs

Three ways we
build young leaders.

01 · Ongoing

Mentorship

One-on-one and small-group mentorship connects young people with adults who show up consistently. Weekly touchpoints, life-skills coaching, and a support network that lasts beyond the program.

  • Matched 1:1 mentor pairings
  • Weekly check-ins
  • Goal-setting & accountability
  • College and career guidance

02 · Weekly

Social development

Workshops and group activities that develop communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and self-advocacy — the essential skills that classrooms rarely teach directly.

  • Interactive workshops
  • Peer-led group projects
  • Public speaking practice
  • Community service days
Referee whistle on orange lanyard resting on a gym floor
New program · Ages 16–18 & 19–23

Referee
training.

Our newest initiative turns high school students into certified referees. It's more than a job — it's a leadership lab. Students learn to make decisions under pressure, communicate clearly, and take ownership of the outcome.

Certify

Earn officiating credentials

Lead

Manage games with confidence

Earn

Access paid part-time work

How it works

From first whistle to first paycheck.

  1. 01

    Apply

    Students apply through their school or directly with us.

  2. 02

    Train

    Weekly sessions on rules, mechanics, and communication.

  3. 03

    Certify

    Complete officiating certification with our partners.

  4. 04

    Officiate

    Get placed on paid youth-league game assignments.

For schools

Bring Ref Lab programs to your students.

Partner with The Ref Lab to host mentorship circles, social development workshops, or a certified referee training cohort at your school. We work with educators to tailor scheduling and curriculum to fit each community.