John Baker, Ian Blanchard and Ray Olivier ran a three day seminar from the 27th to the 29th November which included practical sessions in local stadiums. Participants were able to share experiences from their domestic leagues and learn from The FA’s instructors’ expertise.

The importance of fitness work was highlighted and several exercises were introduced to help raise fitness levels within the context of referees’ needs. The instructors demonstrated exercises that help develop referees awareness and control, and despite the 35 degree heat the participants responded enthusiastically.

The course was a huge success and the delegates were inspired by the new teaching methods that have been developed in England. Video footage of games from around the world was shown in theoretical sessions to demonstrate decision making and match control.

The course was organised by the International Relations department representative Ben Seeley who said: "The course aims to encourage the exchange of ideas between top referees from Africa and England to help develop understanding and experience of the international game.

"The FA is proud of our expertise in all areas of football understanding, including the hard work that is carried out in referee development in England, and we have an excellent opportunity to help other countries benefit from this whilst building the name of The FA abroad."

The course was supported by the Malian FA and CAF and we are proud of our strong links in Africa

For examples of our work in Africa and from around the world please see the links below.