Soccer: Northern Inland referees getting ready for 2021 season kick-off

Ahead of the season kick-off early next month, a pre-season seminar for all Northern Inland match officials will be held at Tamworth's Gipps Street clubhouse this Friday (April 9) from 6.30pm.

There are also Level 4 referee courses for those interested in becoming a referee in 2021 scheduled for Tamworth on Saturday (April 10) at the Gipps Street clubhouse and Narrabri on Sunday at the Narrabri Bowling Club.

Both will run from 9am-5pm.

READ ALSO:

The program consists of theory modules, practical sessions and practical mentoring in matches as a referee and assistant referee, and to be involved, participants must be at least 13 years of age and have successfully passed the online Laws of the Game within the past two years.

The cost is $140 and all participants will receive a new referee starter pack.

The big focuses for Northern Inland referees over the season will be fitness and theory training.

Match officials will be exposed to monthly theory sessions from Northern NSW Football match official coaches via Zoom as well as local instructors.

Premier Division first grade referee Joshua Attard, who refereed the Premier Division grand final last season, said preparation is as important for match officials as it is for players.

"Just as players start preparing for the season with pre-season fitness, referees need to do the same," Attard said.

"Getting back to match fitness is key to being on top of your game. Referees need to be able to keep up with play to get themselves in the best position to make the best decisions."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: