Do you have what it takes to be a referee? Are you finished playing but want to remain involved? Do you know the laws of the game?

Why not become a referee?

Bermuda Football Association (BFA) Referee's Committee hosted a planning session last Sunday at BAA Clubhouse.

Fifteen referees attended the session and were informed of the details for the upcoming season.

The session covered all aspects of refereeing including implementing a new system of grading referees, which will become effective on January 1, 2009.

Conducting assessments of all referees during the period between September to December so that the referees can be re-graded formed part of the meeting. A new fitness schedule was also announced.

The BFA's referees will soon start their annual pre-season fitness regime on the South Shore beaches in order to get ready for the new season.

The first session will be conducted by referee Ronue Cann on Sunday July 20 at 9 a.m.

All referees are welcome and can meet in the car park across from Southampton Rangers.

A BFA spokesman said: "A discussion took place on a possible new fee structure as per the new grading system to be implemented, as well as updating on FIFA's Referee Assistance Programme.

"This is a universal designed programme to have all referees and assistant referees train alike, whether they are in Europe, Asia or CONCACF region."

The BFA Referees' Committee and the Bermuda Referee Association are inviting anyone interested in becoming a referee to call the BFA on 295-2199 for further details and registration forms.

Upcoming courses and events

n Youth & Beginners Course to be held at the National Sports Centre (Cricket Pavilion) – August 10 – 12.

n Seniors Course - Grade Three and above – August 17 – 19.

n Assessors Course – August 31 – September 2.

n First Fitness Test – September 7.