A group of young referees will continue their development and progression over the coming months as the Jersey FA's Referee Development Centre (RDC) kicks off again tonight.

Linked to the Link Asset Services Centre of Excellence, the referees enjoy a three-hour theory and practical session at Springfield Stadium each week.

Over the 20 weeks, the participants spend time out on the pitch in real match situations honing their skills, as well as in the classroom building their knowledge.

"The RDC is a natural extension of the Jersey FA’s Centre of Excellence, and allows young referees to develop match control skills within a safe and supportive environment," said coordinator Paul Daniel.

"The Centre has weekly age group matches where the youngsters learn the importance of teamwork, by working as a referee, as an assistant or fourth official, and also by mentoring each other from the sidelines. Just some of the skills they’ll develop there will involve such areas as; starting and restarting play, managing games according to the age and ability of the players involved, recognising the range of penal and technical offences and how to discipline offenders via the ‘Step’ procedure. We also explain how to send in any Disciplinary Reports. They're all vital aids to progressing up the refereeing ladder.

"The Jersey FA is always looking for new refereeing recruits, and any keen and promising youngsters are likely to be invited to join the RDC. People like Mikey Pih, Harry Walker and most recently Harvey Butler have all progressed through into senior local competitions and have made the most of opportunities that have come their way with their commitment.

"By watching, listening and learning from their colleagues - there’s a great local support network here - they’re already making a massive contribution to Jersey football."

To find out more about the RDC and how to take your first steps into refereeing please call the Jersey FA office on 01534 730433 or email info@jerseyfa.com 

Find out more about the RDC