BFA To Host FIFA Beginners Referee Course
The Bermuda Football Association [BFA] announced that it is partnering with FIFA to offer a Beginners Referee Course in Bermuda.
The course will take place from April 22 – 24, 6pm – 9pm, and April 25, 9am – 4pm, at Cedarbridge and the BFA field. There is no charge to participate, and there will be classroom sessions as well as practical sessions. A light dinner/lunch will be provided.
The purpose of this course is to offer training to those individuals who wish to become a referee. Participants will learn the laws of the game, including the offside rule, fouls and misconduct, match management, referee techniques, report writing, and fitness techniques.
“It is our desire to lower the average age of Bermuda’s referees and increase our referee pool. In order to accomplish this we are reaching out to the next generation of referees. Anyone between the ages of 16-35 is an ideal candidate. Having more people learn the laws of the game can only help to enhance and improve football here on the island,” said Crenstant Williams, BFA Executive Member and Chair of Referees.
All successful participants will receive a BFA FIFA certificate and basic referee equipment.
Mr. Williams went on to say, “We believe that a combination of experienced referees and new younger referees will serve Bermudian football well. Having a strong core of referees will hopefully allow us to send representatives to upcoming tournaments, like the CONCACAF Under 15 Youth Championships, CFU Tournaments, Under 17/Under 20 World Cup Matches, and, ultimately, the FIFA World Cup. ”
Being a referee in Bermuda is not only a weekend activity, but also a viable option for those looking for a new career, or those who are looking for additional sources of income. BFA guidelines state that new referees earn $35 per match, with top-level referees earning $80 for each match they officiate.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to call 295-2199, or email bfa@bermudafootball.com, to secure their place. Space is limited, and sign-up deadline is at noon, Tuesday, April 21. A light dinner will be served each evening and lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
