Referee's allocation

We are now into the first few weeks of the new season, and already the League has been inundated with problems and complaints - one of the key issues being the allocation of referees. Therefore, I thought it would be useful to reiterate some of the guidelines for the allocation of referees for this season, but I need to explain an important issue, which not only affects the Surrey County Womens’ and Girls’ League, but all Leagues sanctioned by the Football Association.

The new stipulation is that all qualified referees must be registered with the County and have completed a CRB check if they are to officiate in games. As a result of this ruling the FA has seen the number of registered referees drop dramatically, therefore we have fewer referees to choose from and to add to this woe, as our League is not recognised for the purpose of promotion, we have even fewer referees. As agreed at our last AGM I have sent a letter to David Crick (Head of Referring) and I am waiting for a response, as he has been on annual leave.

May I request that you contact me by no later than Tuesday evening if you need an official for the following Sunday. As explained later, we have a severe shortage of referees, who are also affiliated to other Leagues.

The following will hopefully provide you with clear guidance on the allocation of officials:-

§ I will be seeking to allocate to the following Divisions in this order:-

Ladies

Under 18s

Under 16s Premier

Under 16s

However, please note we have a shortage of referees and they are also registered with other Leagues (men’s) and therefore are not always available to us;

§ If you have a club referee, who meets the set criteria requirement, then by all means use them. All you have to do is let me know their name, County Registration Number and CRB Number.

A number of teams have been helpful with organising their own club referees. Why not encourage some of your parents to do the referees course? The course requirements have changed to enable the training to match the candidate.

§ If you do not have a referee, see if your opponents have a qualified referee. A number of clubs have referees who will only officiate for them.

I will do my very best to allocate you a referee should you not be able to find one through your own club or your opponents.

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me by email.

Good luck for the rest of the season.