Football referees in Moray needed 'more than ever' as new courses to begin at Borough Briggs in Elgin
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REFEREES are needed 'more than ever' to officiate football matches in Moray with dwindling numbers leading to problems covering an ever-increasing amount of games.
The vast number of games has led, in extreme cases, to postponements due to a lack of officials – while Moray and Banff Referees president Harry Bruce said grassroots football has suffered.
Some referees have been in action five or six times per week – but there are hopes that a new course beginning in Elgin can attract want-to-be referees and alleviate issues.
"Since Covid our numbers have dwindled and that's not just in Moray, this seems to be a theme across the country," Harry said.
"This year more than ever we have seen a need for more referees. We have had two Welfare leagues playing on the same days and both Junior and Highland League football starting their seasons with midweek and Saturday football.
"This has seen some of our referees out covering matches five or six times a week. We also now have new women's teams and leagues forming and a reshuffle in youth football has seen some leagues turn competitive requiring more cover from officials.
"This has meant that some grassroots games have had to suffer. We have struggled massively to cover games at Elgin Boys Club and some of the Welfare/amateur football have even seen games postponed due to a lack of referees.
"Over the next year or so, local football risks suffering even more unless we can act on this now."
Anyone who wishes to get involved with refereeing should attend courses at Elgin City's Borough Briggs, that will begin on Thursday, September 21.
Classes will take place at Borough Briggs on Thursdays, between 7pm and 9pm, for around eight weeks. Some people may finish the course more quickly, some may need a little longer – there is flexibility.
The courses consists of classroom-based PowerPoints covering the 17 laws of football, with a revision session, mock exam and exam. The cost is £35 and that includes annual registration fees and a starter pack.
Harry, who is also course instructor, added: "Refereeing is a fantastic opportunity for anyone to get involved in football.
"Whether it's starting as a youngster, someone looking to earn extra cash or retired/ex players looking to stay involved and give something back to game.
"There is a real scope for referees to progress to good levels of football and, for most people, it just takes signing up to realise what a great opportunity refereeing really is."
MORE: Young referee Rhys Jones encourages people to get involved
