Referee course checklist: what to arrange and when
A referee course needs more than teachers and a football field. You must coordinate registrations, classroom teaching, practical supervision, equipment, catering and the changeover between indoor and outdoor sessions. Start by fixing the date, location and teaching team, then build the schedule around room and field availability. Before participants arrive, test the presentation, prepare the tests and answer sheets, mark out the practice field and set up a clear registration desk. This checklist keeps the administrative, teaching and practical work in one plan.
The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.
Tips
- Set the course schedule only after confirming both the teaching room and the football field. Include realistic time for registration, changing, practical exercises and returning equipment.
- Send the participant reminder after registrations close, and include the start time, location, what to bring and any practical information about changing areas. Keep the attendance list updated until the day before.
- Test the laptop, projector, cables, videos and presentation before participants arrive. Bring extension cords and power strips, because a working projector is not useful if the nearest socket is too far away.
- Prepare the practical equipment as one field kit: whistles, referee watches, yellow and red cards, note cards, cones, flags, footballs and marker discs. Count it before setup and again when the field is cleared.
- Order catering only after collecting dietary requirements. Keep chilled items in coolers until needed, and prepare coffee and tea with enough cups, glasses, plates, cutlery and serving trays for the scheduled breaks.
Frequently asked questions
- How far in advance should I organise a referee course?
- Start at least 6 to 8 weeks before the course date. This gives you time to confirm teachers and supervisors, reserve the room and field, process registrations, order catering and prepare teaching materials.
- What equipment is needed for a referee course?
- Plan for classroom equipment such as a laptop, projector, cables and a flip chart, plus practical equipment including whistles, watches, cards, cones, flags, footballs and marker discs. Check the complete set at least 1 day before the course.
- When should I send the reminder to referee course participants?
- Send it 3 to 5 days before the course, once the participant list and schedule are final. Include the arrival time, location, room or changing arrangements and any information participants need for the practical session.
- How do I plan catering for a referee course?
- Collect dietary requirements when processing registrations and confirm the final numbers 5 to 7 days before the course. Arrange chilled storage on site and prepare drinks and tableware before the first break.