Manchester FA recognises the vitally important role the referee plays in the grassroots game. From local park football on a Sunday morning to the FA Cup Final, football needs referees.
Over the last few years, Manchester FA has focused on innovative and different ways to encourage and support the recruitment of new Referee’s into the grassroots game to join those already dedicated and more experienced referees who officiate games week in week out.
This was, in part, to address a decline in the number of qualified and registered referees in Greater Manchester and to ensure that as participation levels in the game grow, there would be a sufficient number of fully trained and qualified referees to officiate those matches.
The formation of a new Referee Development Team, made up of experienced referees - some of whom have Football League experience - to mentor and guide new and experienced referees every step of the way through their experiences in the game. Importantly, the focus is not just about recruiting new referee’s, it’s also about supporting developing the skills of those who have already qualified, irrespective of their Level in the game.
Despite The Football Association estimating that in some areas of the country, 20 per cent of games are played without a qualified match official, Manchester FA is proud of the fact that there are now have over 700 qualified referee’s registered with Manchester FA and the vast majority of games occur with a qualified referee. Whilst this is encouraging, we are not complacent and are working towards ensuring our ultimate goal of guaranteeing a qualified referee for every game.
Anyone over the age of 14 can become a referee. The game doesn’t just need young referees, some players who are in the twilight of their football years have also enrolled on one of our referee qualification courses to continue their involvement in the game….it’s never too late to get into refereeing and what a great way to stay fit! Irrespective of your age or ability and experience at playing football, if you have a passion for the game and can successfully complete the Basic Refereeing Course you can become a referee. Once qualified, it’s entirely up to you how far you would like to progress, be it local Sunday league, small sided football or through the levels into the semi professional and professional game.
Want to know more or have any questions?
Please contact Communications Officer Alex Rowen by email: alex.rowen@manchesterfa.com or at the office 0161 203 2996.
