20/10/2023 - Bursary available to encourage more people into refereeing

In partnership with Luton Council, GSV Management and Step Forward Luton, the free event has been organised to encourage people from across Luton’s diverse communities to hear about the bursary and courses, along with the many opportunities and benefits that come with a career in refereeing.

The initiative is aligned to the new FA Refereeing Strategy and wider goal of helping to increase referee recruitment from historically underrepresented ethnic communities.

The FA referee courses are designed to equip new referees with the key skills and knowledge they will need to be able to referee grassroots football matches safely and effectively. 

It is aimed at people aged 14 and over who want to referee mini soccer, 9 v 9 and/or 11 v 11 football. 

The courses, which usually cost £140, will be discounted to just £40 for those on a bursary.

In addition to keeping fit and active and developing a range of life and professional skills, newly qualified referees are currently paid between £30 - £45 per match with opportunities to progress through the referee pathway into the semi-pro and professional game with higher wages.

Abu Nasir, CEO of GSV Sports Management and a Step Forward Luton Ambassador, said: “I am thrilled that the FA are providing this opportunity for Luton. We are one of the most diverse towns in the country with a passionate football following. All eyes will be on Luton as this could be a framework for other counties throughout England.

“This is partnership work at its best, with all key stakeholders within the town, including the Council and Luton Town FC all working together on this important initiative. There is a shortage of referees for our leagues and to get more qualified referees supported through bursaries will help address our current challenges.

“I would like to see some of these referees develop further and hopefully some of them will progress to elite level. We want to sustain this for the long-term so having everyone working together on this will ensure sustainability. I encourage everyone to attend and register for the event as we have football industry leaders attending to provide attendees with a unique insight and support”.

Raj Randhawa, The FA Group’s Refereeing EDI Delivery Manager, said: "FA Refereeing are pleased to be working alongside Luton Council, GSV Management and Step Forward Luton to provide unique opportunities at a local level.

“The recent launch of the Refereeing Strategy is critical to attracting and retaining our match officials. We aim to create a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for referees at all levels and to offer strong support throughout their career.

“The strategy specifically outlines our targets and positive action programmes that will further diversify the referee and match official community. I would encourage the people of Luton and specifically the Black, Asian and Mixed heritage populations to attend this event, to find out more about bursary and career opportunities. Referees are the lifeblood of our game and we would love the opportunity to welcome you into the football family.”

Cllr Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council, said: “We are pleased that the FA are working to address the need to make football more representative and that they have chosen Luton to launch this new refereeing bursary.

“I would strongly encourage local people to come along to the event to find out more and consider becoming a referee. In addition to earning money, the referee courses give people the opportunity to develop a range of leadership and life skills, including teamwork, communication and management.”

The event is open for anyone to attend and the details are as follows:

• Luton Reflective & Representative  - Get Into Refereeing Event
• 6-9pm, Wednesday 15th November 2023
• Crescent Hall, 50 Dunstable Road, LU1 1EF
• Refreshments will be provided.

For more information email [email protected]

To express an interest in the bursary and to register for the event, visit the online form.