They're the people football fans love to hate, but without them most games would be a disaster. Match referees play a vital role in the game and there's always a need for more people to get involved. Fortunately there's never been a better time to find out more with training courses and opportunities to practice and gain experience. York RA York City & District Referees’ Association (York RA) is the local branch of the National Referees' Association England (RAE). Within the North Riding County York is one of five branches (York, Scarborough, Whitby, Northallerton and Middlesbrough). It is for the benefit of all football referees (including potential recruits). York RA meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month throughout the season (Sept - May). Meeting are held at York City FC Social Club. Commencing at 7.30pm. Membership benefits include insurance cover, training, speakers, social events, "Refereeing Today" magazine and benevolent fund. FA Referees' Course The FA is responsible for recruiting new referees and courses are held in York (usually in Sept and Feb each year). The courses are in two parts. The first is just four weeks on the pure Laws (followed by a short certificated exam). The second usually lasts five weeks and covers the application of Law / Practical refereeing. This incorporates a written and oral exam, as well as a requirement to referee three local matches (under the guidance of a mentor referee). Local Leagues York and District football covers a number of local leagues in which you can officiate in, ranging from Saturday to Sunday football and junior to senior (open age) matches. On a Saturday there is the York & District Leeper Hare (open age) League. However most leagues play on a Sunday. These include the John Smith's, Sunday Afternoon League and the Sunday Conference (all open age). There is also the Ryedale League (U11), York Mitchell league (U12) and York Minor League (U13 - U16), again playing Sundays. York City FC Academy There is now an Academy for young referees to receive training as they progress and move up the refereeing pyramid. Referees will be developed in the right way and learn their trade in a more controlled environment. Games are played at the York City Training Ground on Sunday mornings and cover the age groups between 11-16 years. There has never been a better time to get involved in refereeing in York. The opportunities are there, providing you are willing to learn.
If you're interested in becoming a referee, or would like to know more, contact David King Tel: 01904 793767
email:
york.ref@ntlworld.com |
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