Uniform and Equipment

New Officials

If you are a new official, focus on the key pieces:

You can always add to your collection (long sleeve shirt, jacket etc).

Crew MUST Dress Identically

Based on the NFHS Rules and UHSAA policy (see below), uniforms worn by game officials MUST be identical.

NFHS Rule 2-5 Art 3 states that “The uniform should fit properly and be clean and neat. All officials working the game are to be dressed the same.”

Officials Guidelines on the UHSAA website Appearance and patch echos the NFHS rules:

SECTION E – Personal Appearance
Officials shall have a professional appearance at all times.  Hair shall be kept clean and presentable and not impair vision.  Neatly trimmed mustaches/beards are permissible.  Officials shall also be required to maintain uniforms and equipment.  Any exceptions must be approved by the association board or UHSAA office.

SECTION F – Patch
Patches will not be permitted unless prior approval from the UHSAA executive staff.  The use of association patches is often a sign of pride and unity.  Association presidents should address the UHSAA in writing with a formal request and design specifics in order to gain permission to wear a uniform patch.

This means that long black undershirts or tights are acceptable under short sleeves or short ONLY if all officials wear them. Jackets will be worn ONLY if ALL officials wear them.

The board would hope that Referees work with their crew to make a diplomatic decision as to what to wear; with that being said,  the Referee has the final say. Making sure everyone is comfortable is essential in getting the best effort and focus from the crew during a contest.

It is imperative the crew communicate prior to the game what the expectations are for the contest and make sure to bring ALL of your equipment should game conditions change. If you do not have a required piece of equipment, be sure to let the rest of your crew know. Many of the more experienced officials have extra gear that you can borrow.

Regular Season UHSAA Uniform

The uniform requirements for the regular UHSAA season includes:

  • 2″ stripped shirt for UHSAA contests ONLY. Striped Shirts (2-inch vertical black/white stripes with black collar and black cuffs and a pocket on the left breast; long sleeve and short sleeve)
    • The one-inch striped shirt is acceptable for non-UHSAA contests.
  • Undershirt Solid black t-shirt or turtleneck.
    • Any visible undergarments must be black.
  • Shorts Solid black with belt loops, no mesh lacrosse or basketball shorts.
  • Shoes All black; mark out any white logos or swooshes with a black marker – shined. Cleats are not required, but may be worn on natural grass surfaces. Many of our officials wear turf shoes or basketball shoes on turf fields.
  • Socks All black ankle socks. No calf length  or no-see-ums.
  • Belt 1 1/4 – 2 inches in width, solid black with a plain buckle.
  • Hat (black baseball style cap with white piping)- be sure to always have a nice hat!
  • Mask or gaiter, all black (if worn on field)

Required Equipment

  • Fox 40 Finger Whistle (spare optional)- a lanyard whistle may be used for faceoffs.
  • Flags Two yellow with black tip.
  • Scorecard May use a plastic one or a paper one you print out or use an index card.
  • Pencil Golf or library pencil is fine. May purchase “bullet pencil” from officials store.
  • Coin (Half-dollar size or larger).
  • 6’ Mini Tape Measure small, not the Bob the Builder size, but at least 6 feet.
  • 20-second Timer There are 2 types: the 20 second timers and the 1:40/20 second timers, the later is great for managing time outs and time between periods.
  • Coaches Certification Cards cards are to be used by the referee and can be downloaded here.

Boys Lacrosse 20/100 second dual timer.

20-Second TimerAll adults are REQUIRED to have a timer. You CANNOT work High School games without one. There are 2 types: the 20 second-timers and the dual 20/100-second timers, the latter is great for managing time-outs and time between periods. You can use also use a Ready Ref if you adjust the time to 20-seconds. This is the most expensive piece of equipment you will purchase. Youth refs DO NOT need to purchase a 20-second timer as the games they work do not have a 20-count.

Optional Uniform & Equipment

These are things you may want to add to your collection given that the weather in Utah can range from 100 and sunny to 30 and snow

  • Jacket  All black.
  • Long Pants All black rain pants with belt loops.
  • Gloves All black.
  • Gear Bag
  • Zip Ties
  • Sunscreen