Referees embark on successful Albury experience

Students aspiring to become future referees from Bossley Park and Prairiewood High Schools took in a fantastic experience as they honed their skills at the recent NSW PSSA Girls State Championships in Albury.

Braving the wet and wintery conditions, the enthusiastic referees were delighted to have taken part in such a profile event.

The student-referee program has grown rapidly since its early foundations at Bossley Park in 2014.

As it stands, there are over ten schools and 200 referees that have taken part in what has been a successful year for the program.

Football NSW Referees Education Coordinator Rob Nieuwenhuis expressed his delight upon seeing the referee talent on show in Albury.

“This trip was certainly a fantastic experience for all referees involved as they most certainly would benefit from this in more ways than one.

“It has been a great year for the course.

“All referees have undergone intensive training, including the FFA Level 4 Referees Course, ongoing training and development, which incorporated a number of tournaments for the regional PSSA selection trials culminating in their selection to officiate at the NSW PSSA State Carnivals.

“Some of the graduates of this program have gone onto the Football NSW Premier Youth League competitions, NSW State Titles and the FFA National Titles.

“Many thanks to the teachers of the participating schools and in particular to Geoff Stanmore (Bossley Park High School) and Kieran Fisher (Prairiewood High School) for their help and support of this program.

“Thanks also to Kearney Robinson, (Gladesville Hornsby Football Referees Association) and Mark Sayer (Wagga Football Referees Branch) for their assistance in coaching the referees and to Mary-Anne Clare) who gave up annual leave to help supervise the students.

“Special mention to Jake Skelton and Jack Lang from Canobolas High School (Orange) for being the first regional referees selected to participate at the NSW PSSA Boys State Championships.”