The Doncaster based community sports college is offering a two year course in refereeing to school leavers who have the passion, determination and commitment to become the future faces of refereeing whilst taking their education to the next level.
The college’s Sports Academy are offering 20 limited places to youngsters who have recently finished school and want to develop their technical refereeing skills as well as learning the essential theory and conditioning elements needed to be the best the ‘National Game’ has to offer.
The programme will be led by FA qualified tutors and is supported by England’s leading referee Howard Webb.
Learning methods will combine officiating with education including modules in fitness, diet, nutrition, psychology and physiology. On completion of the course successful candidates will have gained an Edexcel Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Development, Coaching ad Fitness).
In practical terms, students will gain first hand experience of working as a referee and assistant referee and will officiate in partnership with the English Colleges FA, Development Leagues, local primary schools festivals and the British Colleges Sport Development Leagues. Candidates will also be required to officiate the college football teams as part of the unique ‘earn as you learn’ programme.
The course is offered to both male and females (who have ideally gained a minimum of 5 GCSES or equivalent). Already having a qualification in refereeing would be advantageous however it is not necessary. As admissions for the course are limited, it is advised that students should have a basic understanding of the game and especially officiating.
The Referees Academy is fully supported by Sheffield & Hallamshire FA and The FA.This is an excellent accolade and opportunity for young people who want a rewarding career in the country’s ‘National Game’.
For more information on course requirements and details please visit www.sheffieldfa/news and search for the related news story and download the promotional flyer.
For queries please contact Ben Mawson at the Balby Carr Academy of Sport: b.mawson@balbycarr.org.uk or 08444 483333.