IFA committed to next generation of referees

This means developing referees at all levels of football. One of the key groups is the Young Referee Development Group which meets every three months.

These are the referees of the future - in 10 years’ time it would be hoped that at least one of these referees is part of the senior panel.

They complete seminars on life skills, self-assessments and fitness.

The Irish FA has also changed the way new referees are trained. At a recent course at UUJ, 18 new referees completed a theory and practical course with focus on applying the laws of the game not being taught them.

Some of the referees also got chance to trial their skills in an Elite development Victory Shield trial game getting coaching points after three minutes of action. A great experience for all involved.