Ever tried playing a game of football without a referee?

It's difficult, right...?

So do you think you can do a better job than the much maligned referee and are thinking about taking up the whistle?? Or are you a qualified Referee looking for information on development opportunities and support? If so, this is the place for you as this section of our website is dedicated to providing you with all you need to know about refereeing in Guernsey and further afield.

Guernsey FA recognises and values the crucial role that referee plays in the grassroots game. Whether it is local park football or the FA Cup Final, football can not be played without referees. Guernsey FA is focused on encouraging and supporting the recruitment of new Referee’s into the grassroots game to join those already dedicated and more experienced referees who officiate games week in week out. This is to ensure that any possible decline in the number of qualified and registered referees is covered and also to ensure that as participation levels in the game grow, there will be a sufficient number of fully trained and qualified referees to officiate those matches.

Whilst we are committed to encouraging new referees we are also dedicated to supporting and developing the skills of those who have already qualified, irrespective of their Level in the game. Despite The Football Association estimating that in some areas of the country, 20 per cent of games are played without a qualified match official, Guernsey FA are proud of the fact that there is excellent match coverage. Whilst this is encouraging, we are not complacent and are working towards ensuring our ultimate goal of guaranteeing a qualified referee for every game.

Anyone over the age of 14 can become a referee. The game doesn’t just need young referees, some players who are coming towards the end of their playing careercan enroll on one of our referee qualification courses to continue their involvement in the game….it’s never too late to get into refereeing and what a great way to stay fit! Irrespective of your age or ability and experience at playing football, if you have a passion for the game and can successfully complete the Basic Refereeing Course you can become a referee. Once qualified, it’s entirely up to you how far you would like to progress.

Please contact Referees Development Officer on 01481 200443 if you have any questions about Refereeing in Guernsey or email Geoff.Ogier@guernseyfa.com