Ontario Soccer LTOD

Long Term Officials Development

At the Niagara Soccer Association, we support the Long Term Officials Development (LTOD) initiative championed by Ontario Soccer. LTOD provides a structured pathway for the development, training, and retention of match officials — from grassroots referees to advanced officials — ensuring high standards, inclusion, and ongoing growth in officiating across the province.

What is LTOD?

Long Term Officials Development (LTOD) is a strategic program developed by Ontario Soccer to enhance education, development, and engagement for soccer match officials across Ontario. It is designed to mirror Long Term Player Development (LTPD) principles, but focused specifically on the needs and career paths of referees and match officials.

Purpose & Impact

The LTOD initiative aims to:

  • Provide a standards-based education and development structure for referees

  • Support match officials with ongoing learning, mentorship, and practical experience

  • Improve retention of officials by establishing clear criteria and pathways for advancement

  • Encourage diversity and inclusion in officiating across all levels of play

Feedback gathered from officials, clubs, and district coordinators helped shape the program’s design and priorities.

Register Now

LTOD Key Components

Education & Training

LTOD emphasizes education at all stages of a referee’s journey, including classroom learning, on-field sessions, and scenario practice. Ontario Soccer provides material and support resources to further officials’ knowledge and skills.
Learn more

Mentorship Programs

Part of LTOD’s development pathway includes mentorship and support through programs like SCORE (Supporting the Community of Officials through Relationships and Education) — where experienced officials guide and encourage newer referees.
Learn more

Practical Development

Officials are encouraged to participate in practical sessions and field training designed to enhance fitness, decision-making, and game management. These sessions are aligned with modern officiating expectations and performance standards.
Learn more

NSA’s Role in LTOD

The Niagara Soccer Association actively supports LTOD by:

  • Sharing LTOD resources and updates with local officials

  • Encouraging participation in provincial LTOD sessions

  • Supporting district-level initiatives that align with LTOD principles

  • Promoting mentorship and continuing education for match officials

NSA’s Match Official Development focus team works collaboratively with referees, assignors, and district coordinators to ensure local delivery aligns with provincial expectations.

What is LTOD?

Ontario Soccer makes a number of LTOD resources available to officials, including:

  • Practical training handbooks

  • Session plans and refereeing scenarios

  • Fitness and performance guides

  • Referee education and presentation materials

These resources support officials at all stages of their development and can be integrated into local programming and training sessions.

Why LTOD Matters

Investing in referee development benefits the entire soccer community. Well-trained officials lead to:

  • Better match management

  • Increased player safety

  • Higher game quality

  • Improved consistency across competitions

  • Greater retention of officials year after year

LTOD empowers match officials with tools, resources, and pathways to build fulfilling officiating careers.

LTOD VIDEOS

Get Involved

Whether you are a new referee, an experienced official, or a club supporter, you can be part of LTOD by:

  • Participating in referee education sessions

  • Mentoring newer officials

  • Encouraging match official development at club and district levels

  • Accessing LTOD materials through official Ontario Soccer channels

For full details, updates, documents, and official presentations from Ontario Soccer’s LTOD program, visit the Ontario Soccer LTOD page:

Learn More