The CWPA education and clinic structure is currently undergoing changes and updates. The information below provides you a reference for past criteria used to determine ratings in the CWPA:

A CWPA Novice Referee

Any person who has passed the take home rules test but has not attended a certified referee clinic. This individual has strict limitations on what he/she may officiate.

Become A CWPA Novice Referee

• Pass a standard rules test. The test is open book and must be returned within one week of the original postmark date.
• Purchase a whistle and all-white attire (pants, collared shirt, socks and sneakers).
• May only be assigned with a CWPA A-Rated or higher referee.
• May only officiate a maximum of one year as a novice referee. After one year, a novice referee must fulfill the requirements for a C-Rating in order to continue officiating in the CWPA.

What You Receive As A CWPA Novice Referee

• $15 game fee
• $20 per diem when traveling over 100 miles to a tournament
• CWPA Liability Insurance for CWPA assigned events
• A CWPA Preseason Referee Package

A CWPA U-Rated Referee

A U-Rating describes an individual that has attended a certified referee clinic and passed the rules test but has not received a game evaluation from a CWPA A-Rated or higher referee. The “U” Rating stands for undecided.

Become A CWPA U-Rated Referee

·        Attend a certified referee clinic and pass the take home rules test. Clinics last approximately 3-4 hours. Clinic sites are determined at the start of each season and posted on the Clinic Schedule page.

·        Purchase a whistle and all-white attire (pants, collared shirt, socks and sneakers).

·        May only be assigned with a CWPA B-Rated or higher referee.

·        U-Rated referees receive the benefits described on the Pay Scale page.

A CWPA Rated Referee

A Rated referee describes an individual that is competent of current NCAA water polo rules and is capable of officiating any collegiate club level game or higher. CWPA Ratings vary from a C-Rating to an A-Rating.

Become A CWPA Rated Referee

• Fulfill all U-Rating requirements.
• Receive a current game evaluation from a CWPA A-Rated or higher referee. Evaluations can be completed in conjunction with any CWPA collegiate level water polo game.
• Evaluating referees must submit evaluations and grade recommendations to the CWPA Technical Director for further consideration.
• Rated referees receive the benefits described on the Pay Scale page.

Any individual attaining the ranking of a FINA, ASUA or National referee, will be considered by the CWPA Technical Director as holding a higher rating than a CWPA A-Rated referee.