Football Tasmania is inviting women and girls to try their hand at refereeing, putting on a free course to help them gain the accreditation needed to officiate in matches.
The Level 4 Course, which is open to females aged 13 and over, is aimed at new and beginner referees and prepares match officials to officiate junior and youth matches.
The program which runs over three days at KGV in later this month consists of theory modules, practical sessions and practical mentoring in matches as a referee and assistant referee.
Tasmanian referee Claire Green, who has been reselected to the A-League Women’s panel for the upcoming season, encouraged all Tasmanian women, whether they are currently involved in the sport or not, to consider giving refereeing a try.
“Refereeing is a great way to stay fit, earn money, make lifelong friends and learn some valuable life skills,” Ms Green said.
“I hope to see many more girls becoming referees in the next few years. More and more opportunities are arising as the footballing world acknowledges our talent and potential.”
Football Tasmania CEO Matt Bulkeley said there was a commitment to see more women and girls in leadership roles in football – including as referees.
“It’s been fantastic to see the growth of women and girls taking up the whistle over the past few years, which has risen in line with female player participation,” Mr Bulkeley said.
“Tasmania is lucky to have some high achieving female referees who shown just how far you can go in the sport, with Lauren Hargreave appointed to FIFA’s international panel, and Claire Green and Lucy Nothrop joining Lauren on the A-League women’s panel.
“We’re always on the lookout for more referees, and we’d love to see more females join our ranks at the grassroots level and see where refereeing takes them.”
The free female referee course takes place over three sessions at KGV in August (days and times below).
- Friday 26th from 6pm until 9pm
- Sunday 28th from 9am until 5pm
- Wednesday 31st from 6pm until 9pm
To register for the course, visit: http://education-ffa.sportingpulse.com/Entry/?EID=25618, or contact refereemgr@footballfedtas.com.au for more information.