Football: Fifa Young Referee Training |12 December 2023
The young referees during yesterday’s practical session
18 young referees attend five-day Fifa training
With the aim of developing and inspiring future generations of local football officials, the Seychelles Football Federation is hosting a five-day refereeing course, gathering 18 young enthusiasts.
The training, which started yesterday, is part of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (Fifa) development campaign launched two years ago.
The theory part of the training is taking place at Maison Football, while the astro-turf pitch is hosting the practical elements of the course.
Speaking to Sports NATION leading instructor for the course, Jason Damoo, said the training is a continuity of their development programme which began two years ago.
He said the training is a plus for those who are already in the role as they have also seen the potential of the young referees in senior matches.
“In August we did this course for the senior and elite referees and we thought that it was necessary to include them too,” said Mr Damoo.
Mr Damoo also noted that during the five-day course, they will be evaluating the young referees’ physical conditions, their competences in class and they will be also reviewing the new amendments in the rules for 2023-2024, issued by Fifa.
“As you know the next update on game’s rules will be in July next year, and we are here to keep the young officials updated, while they seek clarifications on topics such as hand balls,” said Mr Damoo, adding that it is very important for them to ask questions.
He also said they will be closely observing the participants and upon completion they will see who can be promoted to higher ranks.
Fifa physical instructor Tunisian Boubaker Hannachi, who is also involved in the training, said the course is designed for young talents with the objective of evaluating physical and technical abilities.
He added that refereeing has reached high levels, and just as the football training begins at an early age, refereeing is similar.
Mr Hannachi further noted that the evaluation will not just be on physical and technical attributes, but also on the mental and psychological sides.
Neil Sirame
