The Hub, Suffolk FA Referee Programme

The Hub, Suffolk FA Referee Programme

News and Stories by Nino Severino

I must applaud the Suffolk FA senior management team, Richard Neal, and James Morley for investing time, with me to create an incredible development opportunity for the officials who commit their time to ensuring that all the football games across the county are managed in a very professional manner. The programme offering was initially delivered through a Zoom meeting which was arranged by Ben Pugh, every official in Suffolk was invited to listen to a presentation, outlining exactly what the support would include.

I must applaud the Suffolk FA senior management team, Richard Neal, and James Morley for investing time, with me to create an incredible development opportunity for the officials who commit their time to ensuring that all the football games across the county are managed in a very professional manner. The programme offering was initially delivered through a Zoom meeting which was arranged by Ben Pugh, every official in Suffolk was invited to listen to a presentation, outlining exactly what the support would include.

We discussed many areas of their skills, and why their personal development is so important. It was a good opportunity for me to explain how we would structure the support, and what it would include.

The referees are completely committed to their personal development across the BIG3, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and mental skills. Their attitude and professionalism have been impressive, all committing to the same level as any athlete would. The approach of the referee fraternity has developed into a very professional culture, embracing all the components of development and preparation.

Referees are challenged on both levels, physical and mental, they need to ensure that they can deliver and stay up with the physical demands of the game, whilst also dealing with the mental and emotional challenges of making small and big decisions. This area of The Hub offering has been a very exciting and satisfying project, I hope that as many referees as possible will take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

The Hub training, support and education is delivered from multiple sites, by The Hub team of experts.