Dunoon United FC is applauded for sponsoring 8 current players (pictured) to attend the Level 4 Referee Course that was run by Football Far North Coast on Sunday 17th February. Dunoon United FC offered a full refund of the Referee Starter Package amount of $100 to these participants once they register and officiate.
A total of 23 participants took the first step in becoming an accredited match official, with the course focus being on the development of basic refereeing and assistant refereeing skills.
Once these participants register as match officials they will enter into the local refereeing ranks through the FFNC Green Shirt Initiative, which is a program aimed at fostering a culture of support and encouragement towards match officials.
Although it is encouraging to have this many potential new referees, most are junior players who will appointed to the younger age divisions during their first year of officiating. Football Far North Coast urges more adults (eg players and parents) to become a match official, as there is a clear absence of seniority and experience and this situation is going to see more games in senior competitions requiring club referees unless more adults come forward to become a match official.
Another Level 4 Referee course is being held in Ballina on Saturday 23rd March and we invite people to register here: https://education-ffa.sportingpulse.com/event.asp?ID=19683
Northern NSW Football has introduced a Referee Starter Package that has reduced the costs of accreditation and the basic kit to become a match official. FFNC is also supporting this initiative and for a total cost of $135 (includes the $100 NNSWF Referee Starter Package + required polo shirt) you will receive the level 4 course + materials, all your required gear and your registration as a match official with FFNC for 2019. Note that match officials receive a payment for officiating and you can nominate your availability to enable you to play as well as referee.
