Courtesy: UEFA

Sound advice for Futsal officials

Friday, 2 December 2005

by Mark Chaplin
from Nyon

UEFA's ambitious referee development programme also includes match officials in the rapidly developing sector of Futsal. This week, the European body has played host to 31 international Futsal referees at their second UEFA course.

Increased profile
Futsal is being given an increased profile within UEFA's activities, meaning officials who take charge of games in the European club and national-team Futsal competitions are receiving close attention from UEFA's refereeing department.

New era
"Futsal is entering a new era," was the view of UEFA Referees' Committee member Manuel López. The latest course entailed practical and theoretical work, including a specialised training session and a fitness test led by Werner Helsen, UEFA's referee training partner. Instructors at the course were highly-respected former Futsal referees, Andrea Lastrucci of Italy and Spain's Pedro Ángel Galán Nieto.

Uniformity and consistency
The officials were appraised of the importance of achieving uniformity and consistency in decision-making, as well as the need for good physical condition and alertness to be able to perform to the best of their ability on the small-sided playing surface. Video examples helped demonstrate the new FIFA Futsal Laws of the Game. Click here to view the laws.

English essential
For international assignments, UEFA asks its referees to be able to speak English as a means of communication on and off the pitch, and an assessment gave the arbiters the opportunity to find out whether their English was in need of improvement.

Referee network
The idea of a European Futsal referee network is also taking shape, with each exchange helping the officials get to know each other better. In addition, UEFA hopes to send two delegates to Futsal tournaments from next season – a referee observer and a safety/security delegate. UEFA will now draw up conclusions from the course, which will help set the tone for Futsal refereeing in the future. By assessing their needs, UEFA is showing due respect and care for its match officials.

HatTrick help
The UEFA HatTrick assistance programme made an important contribution to the course as well, with a Moroccan referee invited to attend to gain invaluable experience.





Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com