Want to become a Referee?  Here are some questions answered......

That depends on your intention on completion of the course.  The course is in two parts. 

Tier 1 - everyone must complete this part of the course.  Its intention is to give you a better knowledge of the laws in order to help you understand the game more fully.  If you are a Club Official, a Spectator you will have enough knowledge to step in as a referee in an emergency.  This part is also suitable for those who want a qualification as part of the Duke of Edinburgh scheme or simply for your CV.  Successfully passing the examination at the end of Tier 1 gains you a Certification of Attendance on the course and which is valid for 2 years.

Tier 2 - this part of the course lasts 6 weeks and at this time you will be classified as a Level 9 (trainee) referee.  The first four weeks expand your knowledge of the Laws by way of their interpretation and application.  On the fifth week there is a written examination followed by an oral one on the sixth week.  During the period of Tier 2 you will be required to referee three 11-a-side games and will be allocated a Mentor who will attend at least one of your games and be there to advise you either face to face or at the end of a telephone.

An overall pass mark of 75% on the written an oral examinations will give you the status of a Level 7 (or 8 if under 16) Registered Referee.

Once you have qualified you will be urged to join the Referees' Association of which this site is representative of your local society.  This gives you the opportunity of attending monthly meetings which will assist you in your career as a referee.

The next Course will start the first week in September 2003.  The actual date and venue will be announced nearer the time.

In the first instance contact your local Referee Instructors, David Fuller (01924 501245) or John Byrne (01924 407432).