By Mr Jesuraja Joseph for BISMumbai 

The Thane Football Association, in collaboration with Don Bosco Nerul, recently organized a Football Referees Training Course at Don Bosco Seawoods Campus from 14 to 16 April 2023.

The registration started at 9:00 a.m. on 14 April, and the referees across Maharashtra eagerly registered themselves with necessary documentation. Fr Akhil Abraham, the Vice-principal, inaugurated the course. Mr Dhananjay More, a senior player and technical in-charge of Indian Football Federation spoke about new rules and regulations. The referees received valuable insights into the 17 laws of the game along with other related topics designed to equip them with the necessary skills to perform their duties effectively, during the first day of training. 

On the second day, the participants continued to develop their understanding through engaging and informative sessions on referring. The practical sessions were held on the ground for both the days. The ground practice and fitness training helped them to understand the importance of fitness needed to be a referee. On the final day, the referees were tested on both their practical and theoretical knowledge, which provided valuable feedback to gauge their understanding and learning from the course. They reported to the ground at 6:30 a.m. for the fitness test; then they had a written exam on the knowledge of the rules and regulations of the game.

Mr Souter Vaz, the General Secretary of Western India Football Association (WIFA), Dr Barnabe D’Souza - the Rector, and Fr Akhil provided encouragement and support to the participants with their inspiring words. Mr Vaz, while addressing the referees, emphasized the importance of concentrating on the game only, as refereeing the football game is like walking on a tightrope.

The three-day course was attended by 36 participants and offered a comprehensive program that combined both theoretical and practical knowledge. Thanks to the efforts of the Thane Football Association, Don Bosco Nerul, Mr Ramesh Subramanyam, an instructor from the All-India Football Association of Referees and head of referees, and Mr Titus Fernandes, a football coach from Don Bosco Nerul, the referee course was a resounding success.

It was an excellent opportunity for the referees to enhance their knowledge and skills. The participants were so impressed with the program that they requested more training opportunities, and Don Bosco, Nerul, has committed to conducting more referees coaching and train-the-trainer programs for sports and athletics in the future.