Young Referees’ Training Program Advances in Ghana

Progressing through Days 2 and 3

The Catch Them Young Referees initiative continued its second and third days at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence located in Prampram. Participants were involved in both theoretical lessons and practical exercises aimed at enhancing their knowledge, self-assurance, and skills in refereeing.

Objectives of the Program

This training course, part of the FIFA Women’s Development strategy, strives to furnish young female referees with the essential professional abilities, principles, and experience necessary to thrive in their officiating roles. The program also aims to foster the sustainable progression of women’s football in Ghana.

Classroom Engagements

During the instructional segments, Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, the GFA Women’s Football Development Manager, elaborated on the GFA Women’s Football Strategy. She discussed its vision, mission, and six key strategic components, placing a strong emphasis on the importance of League Development, Education, Grassroots Football, Marketing, and Visibility. Participants were encouraged to see themselves as crucial contributors to the overall advancement of women’s football in the country.

Furthermore, Sarpong shared pathways and inspiring success narratives within the women’s game to motivate the participants to aspire for excellence in their refereeing journeys.

Overview of Competitions

In addition, Barbara Yankah from the GFA Women’s Competitions Department outlined the structure of women’s football competitions in Ghana. She detailed the Women’s Premier League, the Division One League, and the forthcoming U15 Girls’ Regional Colts Leagues.

Focus on Safeguarding and Ethics

An integral part of the training was a presentation by Madam Bernice Bempah, the GFA Safeguarding Officer, who addressed safeguarding and ethical practices. She underlined the Code of Ethics related to the GFA, CAF, and FIFA, stressing the importance of complying with safeguarding standards and policies throughout all phases of matches.

Madam Bempah emphasized that safeguarding involves a set of strategies aimed at protecting young players and referees from any form of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. She highlighted the GFA’s dedication to fostering safe environments, recognizing potential risks, and maintaining integrity in football through ongoing education and awareness.

Practical On-Field Training

On the training field, Madam Louisa Amanor, the GFA/CAF Referees Physical Instructor, guided the participants through various technical and physical drills. These sessions covered the Laws of the Game, updated regulations, and critical refereeing skills including positioning, identifying tactical fouls, handling offside situations, and utilizing the substitution board correctly.

Hands-on Experience

On Day 3, Instructor Millicent Kanor led the young referees in practical warm-up routines and match officiating strategies. The participants had the chance to officiate live matches at the ongoing Elite U15 Girls Championship in Prampram, which provided them with invaluable real-world experience in a competitive environment.

GFA Communications