Qualified Referees - Congratulations

I have great pleasure informing you that the following Derry Hill United players have attended a course of instruction in Football Refereeing:

• George (Fire)


• Rory (Fire)


• Mike (Fire)


• Jack (Fire)


• Adam (Flames)

Each of them has subsequently taken, and passed, both a written and oral exam and are now qualified as Class 8 referees.

It is most likely you will see these young people officiating at your matches in the coming months, please help them by offering your utmost respect, support and encouragement.

Football is suffering from a severe shortage of qualified referees and this is starting to have an impact on our game. Numbers are down in those attending training and many drop out due to abuse, both verbal and physical, from players, parents and officials. Please don't let the heat and passion of the moment get the better of you and keep the activity in perspective - we are charged with creating a supportive, safe, learning environment in which our players can have fun and develop as both players and young people.

Our new referees join a growing number of youngsters who have committed time, energy and enthusiasm to our volunteer support group.

I would like to extend my congratulations to George, Rory, Mike, Jack and Adam, each of who has given their time freely to support our Club, your children and our game. Thanks to you all.

DHUFC supports and sponsors referees through their course. Youth volunteers are also offered the opportunity to chart and gain recognition for their commitment through access and registration to the Sport England and FA, Step Into Sport programme.

email LikeToRef@dhufc.org if you want to become a referee