FAM rolls out U-16 refereeing training

In an effort to develop football from grassroots level, Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has rolled out a nationwide Under-16 youth football referees course.

Speaking during the official opening ceremony of one of the classes at William Coy Conference Hall in Mzuzu on Wednesday, FAM executive member Severia Chalira who was the guest honour, said it is high time football refereeing training should target that age group.

She said there was a knowledge gap in football refereeing in the country and advised the participants to take the training seriously.

“As FAM, we are aware that if we are to develop the sport, we should start from the grassroots and that should be in all areas ,including refereeing. That is why with support from Fifa, we have rolled out this exercise to equip the Under-16 youths with refereeing skills across the country,” said Chalira.

FAM referees development officer Maxwell Mtonga said upon completion of the course, the 68 will be assigned to handle Under-16 Fifa Youth Football League second phase that will kick off shortly.

“Our plan is that youth leagues should be officiated by the youths themselves. After this training, the 68 will automatically be officiating Under-16 youth football games,” he said.

Course instructor Zuza Nyondo said, among other things, the participants will cover basic topics on laws of the game, general fitness and practical movement in the game.