A Referees Academy in Herefordshire has been in existence now for over two years and its prime aim is to bring on the cream of referees in Herefordshire. It’s an exciting project that’ll see us train the best young referees in the area. Coaching will include the likes of positioning, fitness, how to deal with players, application of laws of the game and even diet and nutrition.
It is a good time to become a referee and the “RESPECT” campaign being spread out by The FA and also the greater resources being directed to all referees in the county.
Hopefully the best referees in Herefordshire will rise to the top and aim for the top. Whilst the Academy can fast track, it involves hard work, dedication and commitment.
BENEFITS OF A REFEREES ACADEMY – TO THE REFEREE
• To enhance their development and performance, by having the benefit of instant feedback from a Referees Coach who will advise them on all aspects of your performance. The referees will be part of a Referees Coach scheme, which forms part of their support mechanism.
• Experience the professional aspects of the game, and meet the expectations placed on them as part of their role within the scheme
• To aid retention, the referee will officiate in an environment which is controlled by a code of conduct by all participants. This will enable you to develop with confidence, and gain a feeling of value and purpose.
• Referees within the structure of an Academy would gain experience and advice, which would assist them on the leagues they officiate on. This experience would also be useful to them when applying for promotion through the normal routes.
• An opportunity to aspire to Senior Referee Development (Level 4)
• The Academy will be linked to a Referees Coach system whereby the referees selected for the Academy will have an immediate point of contact for any refereeing issue or concern.
• The Academy will identify, encourage and maintain those with the greatest potential, and to provide them with opportunities to progress. The provision of extra training, coupled with regular assessment, observation and feedback, should enhance performance. Ultimately, those participating in the scheme should progress and find a suitable level to practise their skills as a referee.
• Having a Referees Academy in place will attract referees, as the opportunity to officiate in matches involving professional football clubs is a draw for any younger or older referee to continue their refereeing career. This document describes what is expected of those involved in the scheme.
• A Referees Academy provides a fresh approach and be used as a vehicle for training and development of referees. It can attract new referees and also retain the interest of current referees
• The Referees Academy will be also be attached leagues affiliated to the County F.A
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The Referee:
• Must be registered with their parent County Football Association
• Is not a Level 5 referee and has demonstrated a commitment to refereeing.
• Is active to form part of their development and future promotion opportunities
• Has been identified by the County F.A. Has having significant potential and a realistic chance of progressing up the refereeing ladder
• Has signed a contract of acceptance, agreeing to terms and conditions binding on all Academy members.
• Must have the required attitude to accept feedback in a positive manner from the Referees Coach or when applicable, the Academy Director or an assessor.
• Is advised to become a member (if not already) of The Referees Association. The benefits of being a member of this body are worthwhile and are recommended.
For further information please contact Sean Dipple, Referees Development Officer