THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Referees Committee is strengthening knowledge skills among referees after conducting a refresher course for officials from the lower league in the southern region.
Following a similar exercise held in February, the committee returned to fundamentals with a three-day training session aimed at aligning southern region match officials with the latest amendments to the laws of the game.
Participants lauded the refresher course for expanding their understanding of the dynamic nature of football regulations.
“These refresher courses help us perform our duties better, especially in light of new amendments. We are pleased as officials to have gained clarity on recent changes,” said one of the participants.
The laws of the game are revised annually, with changes taking effect from July 1.
“One notable amendment concerns goalkeepers delaying play. Previously, if a goalkeeper delayed for more than eight seconds, it would result in an indirect free kick. However, the new ruling stipulates that it will now result in a corner kick. It is essential that our officials are fully conversant with such updates,” course facilitator, Brighton Nyika explained.
ZIFA Referees Committee Chairperson, Faith Mloyi, underscored the importance of such refresher courses in enhancing the capacity and professionalism of local referees.
“We aim to get the best out of our match officials. It is therefore imperative that we move with the times and ensure that our officials implement these updates on the field,” Mloyi said.
The committee further indicated that it remains committed to raising officiating standards within the domestic league, particularly in the wake of recent controversies involving allegations of poor match management by certain referees.
