In partnership with Alabama Soccer Referees, Snap Soccer proudly presents the official lineup of referee mentors attending the 2025 Gulf States Referee Showcase. An exceptional group of leaders with extensive qualifications and experience, prepared to train and inspire the next generation of officials, this year’s roster reflects decades of professional, collegiate, and international officiating experience.
Participants will benefit from hands-on instruction, mentorship, and workshops led by officials who have worked at the highest levels of soccer. From international referees to top domestic officials, the mentors represent a full spectrum of expertise across youth, amateur, professional, and international competitions. The 2025 mentor group reflects a deliberate balance of seasoned veterans, technical specialists, and rising educators—all dedicated to elevating referee development. Check out the full lineup of attending mentors & their key qualifications:
Kari Seitz, U.S. Soccer Vice President of Refereeing
One of the most accomplished referees in U.S. soccer history and the only person to officiate four FIFA Women’s World Cups and three Olympic Games.
- National Soccer Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 2026)
- U.S. Soccer Vice President of Refereeing (2024–present)
- FIFA International Referee (1999–2013)
- Officiated 4 FIFA Women’s World Cups (1999, 2003, 2007, 2011)
- Officiated 3 Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012)
- Refereed MLS, WUSA, WPS, and NWSL finals
Matt Thompson
Returning to the Showcase, experienced referee & mentor with leadership in domestic competitions and referee development programs.
- U.S. Soccer National Referee
Elton Garcia
Returning to the Showcase, consistent and reliable official with extensive experience
- U.S. Soccer National Referee
Alyssa Pennington
Returning to the Showcase, emerging referee leader recognized for strong mechanics, positioning, and composure under pressure.
- FIFA Referee
- Referee for the 2025 NWSL Semifinal
Tiffini Turpin
Returning to the Showcase, focused and accurate referee with proven experience mentoring officials and managing competitive matches.
- FIFA Assistant Referee
- Assistant Referee for the 2025 NWSL Semifinal
Nick Uranga
Returning to the Showcase, professional referee providing guidance and best practices for aspiring officials.
- FIFA Assistant Referee
- Regional instructor & assessor
Alexandra Billeter
Seasoned referee with extensive professional and international match experience, committed to excellence and continuous development.
- FIFA Referee
Gloria Martinez
Professional referee admired for teamwork, reliability, and supportive mentorship of developing officials
- U.S. Soccer National Referee
- Certified referee mentor and instructor
Jonathan Bilinski
Disciplined referee known for fairness, crew leadership, and developing new officials.
- U.S. Soccer National Referee
- Soccer Referee Fitness Coach
We are thrilled to welcome this prestigious group of officials dedicated to the game, especially for their contributions to referee education and development.
With 80+ up-and-coming referees in attendance, Snap Soccer is looking forward to hosting the 6th Annual Gulf States College & Referee Showcase. If you are interested in learning more about this event and how you can apply to participate next year, please visit our page Referee Showcase – Regional Academy.
