MEMBERS of a womens referees group officiated all of the matches at a recent under-16 girls football tournament

The North-East Women Referee Development Group provided the referees for the competition, contested by Durham WFC, Middlesbrough LFC, Norton & Stockton Ancients LFC and Newcastle United FC Kicks at the Riverside, Chester-le-Street, with the objective being to build experience and confidence in the match officials.

Each official got the opportunity to act as a referee and assistant referee in a number of games and received coaching and advice from the senior referee coaches in attendance.

All of the matches were officiated superbly by the team of female referees and provided valuable learning experience which will undoubtedly have equipped them for their future refereeing endeavours.

The group aims to develop women referees and ensure they take advantage of the opportunities available to them and, now into its third year, it encompasses a partnership between Durham, North Riding and Northumberland FA.

The aim is to deliver training as well as offering specific coaching and mentoring for its members.

If you are interested in becoming a referee, contact the referee Development Officer at your local County FA.