It’s never too late, become a referee today

Now is a great time to get involved with refereeing as football continues to be the number one participated sport across the nation with Football NSW pushing for more officials in 2023.

With an increase of player numbers expected in 2023, the volume of teams and matches will rise meaning the need for more referees will be high on the agenda across the state.

“Referees are a huge part of the football family,” said Football NSW’s Community Football Referees Coordinator Emma Kocbek.

“They’re the leaders on the field.

“It’s a really good time to become a referee, particularly for females. Refereeing is a great way to get involved in the game in a different way to playing or coaching and I’d encourage everyone to pick up the flag or the whistle and get out there.”

Currently officiating in the A-League Women’s as well as NPL NSW Men’s and Women’s competition matches, Kocbek first picked up the whistle at her local branch in Nepean.

“I first got involved in football as a player but as a teenager I started officiating some small-sided games for my local club in the Nepean Football Association.

“In 2014, I did my Level 4 referee course and joined the Nepean Referees Group.

“I kept playing and refereeing for a few years and then wanted to see how far I could take my refereeing so stopped playing and focused on being a match official. I went through the RDP and was selected to be a part of the FNSW Referee Academy.

“Now, I officiate on the A-League Women’s competition and the NSW Men’s and Women’s competitions so looking back, I’m glad I took the chance to see how far I could take it.”

Click here to find out more on how to become a referee today.