Football NSW set to host inaugural Grassroots Referees Conference
Football NSW is proud to host the inaugural Grassroots Referees Conference at Valentine Sports Park on Saturday, 21st March, 2026.
Headlining the conference will be FIFA referee Tim Danaskos and A-League Men’s referee Lachlan Keevers, who will share their experiences officiating at the highest levels of the game in Australia. Through presentations and discussions, they will offer insights into match management, decision-making under pressure, preparation for elite performance, and the pathway from grassroots refereeing to the professional game.
This landmark event represents a major step forward in supporting and developing referees by bringing together administrators, referee branch leaders, referee coaches and referees from across the Football NSW community for a full day dedicated to education, collaboration, and development. Designed specifically for those involved in grassroots football, the event will provide practical insights, modern refereeing approaches, and valuable opportunities to strengthen local referee programs.
Throughout the day, attendees will participate in a series of development sessions, workshops, and presentations focused on improving refereeing standards at the community level. Topics will include referee coaching and mentoring, supporting young and developing referees, managing challenging match situations, communication and leadership on the field, and building stronger referee cultures within local branches.
The Grassroots Referees Conference reflects Football NSW’s continued commitment to investing in referees and recognising the critical role they play in the game. By equipping grassroots officials and leaders with new knowledge, tools, and inspiration, the conference aims to raise standards across the state and help build a stronger future for refereeing in New South Wales.
