Bermuda Football Association Seeking Referees
The Bermuda Football Association is calling for assistance to help with the shortage of referees. At a press conference held yesterday [Sept 20], the Bermuda Football Association General Secretary David Sabir explained why it is difficult to recruit officials citing negative aspects such as abuse by players and spectators and the use of insulting language.
Mr Sabir said: “A very small pool of referees, 22 referees including two women, across the entire spectrum of football is a challenge.”
Current referee Lyndon Raynor said, “Refereeing has opened opportunities to officiate internationally in the Caribbean and Canada, I have also met other referees I would have never had the opportunity to meet had I not elevated to the FIFA List, refereeing is rewarding and can be rewarding for anyone.”
Calvin Simons a former referee said, “I would encourage anyone to give refereeing a chance, it is a wonderful experience and something that can take you all over the world. I had the opportunity to officiate in Olympic Qualifiers which was an experience I would never forget.”
Calvin Blankendal the Bermuda Football 1st Vice President and Chairman of the League and Competition Committee said, “Following talks with the current Referee President, we realized there was a shortage and we needed to address the situation quickly, we should/could have done this earlier, however we didn’t so we are here now appealing for assistance.”
This is an important issue, makes me wonder why they are only now addressing it after the season has started?
Bermy is 2 small 2b a Referee!You cant even walk the street on a monday without sum1 abusing you,even if you are with ya family!
yeah, um too old to get beat up!
This is sad. I did not realize this was an issue. The youth suffer. Wish there was a code adhered to by all that says “what happens on the field stays on the field.” Hope we work it out soon.
Does it come with a whistle and bullet proof vest ?