The FA’s Match Official Association run regular events around the country and give up and coming referees a chance to learn from some of the game’s most experienced names.

Over 80 officials attended the evening in Sheffield and Regional Referees Development Manager, Alan Wilkie, commented: “These in-service training evenings are vital for both development and progression and give referees a chance to meet, learn and gain support from each other.”

The demand for regular referees in Sheffield and Hallamshire is higher than ever with the County FA admitting to a shortfall of 300 officials but The Football Association’s Ian Blanchard believes they’re on the right track: “I must congratulate Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA for the hard work and commitment shown in referee recruitment and retention. 

“The referees department face enormous challenges from grassroots level up to the professional level and its important we all work together to improve the quality and standard of refereeing as well as stamping out bad behaviour from players and spectators at all levels,” said The FA’s Head of National Referee Development.

Sheffield & Hallamshire FA have already made positive steps in recruiting more referees for 2008 and beyond by appointing Craig Grundy as their new Referees Development Officer.

If you’d like to referee in the Sheffield & Hallamshire area then contact Craig Grundy on 0114 2414 992.