Jim Carpenter

North Carolina Soccer Hall of Fame

Class of 2024

Jim Carpenter

Jim has dedicated more than four decades to soccer officiating, serving at all levels of the sport since 1978. His exceptional commitment has been recognized with numerous awards, including the TISOA Stig Sasse Award as an assessor, the TISOA William Utter Service Award, the PSOA Distinguished Service Award, the NCASA Dave Williams Award for Service, and the inaugural NCSRA Distinguished Service Award, which has since been named in his honor.

During his active refereeing career (1978-2002), Jim achieved the distinction of USSF State Referee Class 1 and National NISOA Referee. He officiated high-level matches across NCAA Division I, II, and III Men’s and Women’s Soccer, including multiple NCAA postseason tournaments. His career highlights include officiating at five Southern Regional Championships and the 1988 NCHSAA Boys’ 4A State Championship game. Beyond collegiate and high school soccer, Jim contributed to youth and adult competitive soccer, officiating state cup tournaments and maintaining a consistent presence at premier events in the region.

Jim’s impact extends beyond officiating as he played a pivotal role in the development of referees in North Carolina. As State Director of Instruction for the North Carolina Soccer Referees Association (2001-2016), he created and implemented referee training courses and annual recertification programs, elevating the standards of officiating throughout the state. Additionally, Jim served multiple terms on the board of directors for Greensboro Youth Soccer Association (now Fusion).

Off the field, Jim is a devoted family man, sharing his life with his wife Hale, their three children, and seven grandchildren. Since 2010, Jim has worked professionally as a pedorthist, specializing in care for diabetic patients. His dedication to soccer, family, and profession underscores a life of service and excellence.