The Irish Football Association’s refereeing department is staging courses next month in a bid to attract more referees for all levels of the game in Northern Ireland.
The free two-day courses are being run at four venues across the country. There will be two in County Tyrone, one in Co Antrim and another in Co Londonderry.
Tony Sharkey, Referee Development Officer with the Irish FA, explained: "Football continues to grow, and with that growth comes the need for more referees.
“Refereeing opens the door to a wide range of exciting opportunities, from officiating at local youth matches to progressing through junior, intermediate and senior levels, and even exploring opportunities abroad.
“Whether you're looking to stay active, build confidence or stay connected to the game, refereeing offers it all.”
The Referee Development Officer pointed out next month’s free courses - the recruitment drive is being promoted under the tagline ‘Get Involved – Be a Referee’ - are the starting point for anyone with a passion for football that wants to play a part in a different way.
“This could be the beginning of a truly rewarding journey,” he insisted.
The courses are being staged at the following venues:
10 and 17 August – Dromore Sports Complex, Dromore, Co Tyrone
10 and 17 August – Ballymena (venue TBC)
24 and 31 August – Coleraine Showgrounds
24 and 31 August – Stangmore Park, Dungannon
To book a place on a course go to: www.irishfa.com\referees
