SLFA Strengthens Refereeing With FIFA Youth Training Course

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has successfully concluded a five-day FIFA MA Course for Youth Referees in Bo City as part of ongoing efforts to develop and strengthen football officiating in the country.

The training brought together young referees from across Sierra Leone and was aimed at equipping participants with modern refereeing knowledge, technical skills, and fitness standards required for professional match officiating.

The course was facilitated by FIFA Technical Instructor Ali Mohamed Ahmed of Somalia and FIFA Fitness Instructor Bento Tomas Navesse of Mozambique.

Both instructors expressed satisfaction with the performance of the participants, describing their progress, commitment, and level of discipline throughout the training as encouraging. They urged the young referees to remain focused, disciplined, and dedicated as they continue their careers in football officiating.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Southern Region Football Association Secretary, Mr. Yayah Mansaray, congratulated the participants and encouraged them to uphold professionalism, integrity, and excellence in their duties.

Vice Chairman of the SLFA Referees Committee, Alhaji Daudu Williams, expressed confidence in the ability of the newly trained referees to contribute meaningfully to improving the standard of football officiating in Sierra Leone.

He noted that the Referees Committee believes the group has the potential to play a significant role in the future development of refereeing in the country.

The successful organisation of the course was supported by the SLFA Referees Department and local refereeing officials, including Referees Manager Alhaji Sanusie Rashid, Alhaji Alpha Rahim, Mohamed Bristo Kamara, Zainab Wilson, and Alhaji Daudu Williams.

The SLFA said the completion of the youth referees course reflects its continued commitment to investing in referee development at all levels as part of efforts to raise the standard of football in Sierra Leone.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the FIFA MA Course for Elite Referees, which is expected to commence in Bo City as part of ongoing initiatives to further strengthen football officiating in the country.