Click here to contact your local Referees Association Representatives who will book your place on their next Training Course and answer any queries that you may have.
You're never too old…
Age is not a barrier. There is no upper age limit. You need to be over 14 to take the course. Young Referees only officiate in Youth Football until they reach 16 when they can then officiate in adult football.
Many ex-footballers decide to become Match Officials - not only do they bring years of experience but refereeing provides the perfect way to stay involved and give back something to the sport.
Take your time…
You fit refereeing into your schedule.
It is up to you whether you referee every Saturday/Sunday or as and when you are available.
You will be given appointments depending on YOUR availability and time.
Refereeing pays off…
Course costs are currently set at £30 for Candidates over 16yrs old and £10 for Candidates aged between 14-16yrs old.
In addition you will be required to pay £15 Registration Fee, £20 to undertake an FA Child Protection Course and £12 for your FA CRB check.
Once you have completed six Games as a Referee the Course Costs will be refunded via completion of a Record of Achievement Form.
It shouldn't take long to recoup the remaining costs either as Referees receive payment for officiating matches (as outlined by the Match/Competition organiser)!
Your own team of supporters…
The BCFA ensure that you are offered in-service training and other opportunities to meet your needs. Some People wish to make a career out of refereeing others do it for recreation purposes, as a hobby or to give something back to football.
Once you have completed a Registration Year you are given the option to progress through the Levels via Promotion Schemes.
Tell me more…
Courses generally run over an 8 week period 2/3 hours one evening per week.
At the end of the Course you will be required to take both a Written and DVD or practical exam, pass a basic eyesight test, pass a basic colour test and demonstrate that you can correctly complete a misconduct report form
You will then need to complete six games as a Referee before becoming an official Referee.
This offers you the opportunity to Referee a variety of Football in a number of Leagues in areas that you live and on days that you can make yourself available.
If you have any other referee-related queries, please e-mail us by clicking here or call 0121 357 4278 (option 1).