The refs' image in the modern game

The role of the referee in football is vital.

The person controlling a football match is the 'guardian' of the Laws of the Game since he has the vested right to interpret these laws in conformity with the instructions which the ruling bodies issue from time to time.

Referees operate within certain constraints, and this is understandable.

The ever-increasing ploys used systematically by the players with the intention of gaining an unfair advantage and the criticism they are subjected to by the followers of the game and the comments from members of the media are constant reminders of the conditions under which officials in charge carry out their duties, wherever football is played.

Nevertheless, the referees are the sole arbiters and their decisions on points of fact are final despite their proneness to human error. That is standard practice world-wide.

Considering the local situation and the attendant difficulties, Maltese referees probably operate under more pressure than those elsewhere.

The Malta FA, through its Referees' Department, keeps a constant link with the Malta Football Referees Association (MFRA). Instructional meetings, refresher courses, seminars and clinics, fitness tests and meetings with the media are regular activities on the referees' annual calendar.

Without any doubt, refereeing has to keep abreast with modern demands, and the MFRA is dynamic in this respect.

Recruitment is also an important sector and for this end courses for new referees are run on a regular basis.

Males and now even females are encouraged to take up refereeing after successfully undergoing a course.

This is a challenge for young people which offers satisfaction and incentives.

Refs' course

The Referees Department will be holding a Referees' Course in November.

Applications will be received from prospective candidates, between the ages of 16 and 35.

These are to be addressed to Tom A. Restall, Head Referees Department, MFA, 280, St Paul Street, Valletta.