quitting the sport.

Citing preferential treatment he believed was being afforded to other refs when it came to big game appointments, Knight walked away from soccer in frustration and spent most of the past season playing golf.

But he says he has been encouraged to return by new president of the Bermuda Referees' Association Gregory Grimes who has been busy trying to recruit officials following the retirement of stalwarts such as Leroy Wilson and Lawrence DeShields.

"I'm pleased that Mr. Knight has decided to come back and assist. We welcome him back with open arms, fully realising his talents and knowing what a great contribution he can make to our ranks and to soccer in general,'' said Grimes.

While there still remains an urgent need for additional refs, the BRA have have picked up two new faces, one being female Vicky Johnston who attended the last referees' course held here in April, and the other Englishman Steve Wakeland. Johnston is a trainee while Wakeland is a Class Three ref.

The BRA will step up their recruitment drive this week with an advertising campaign and Grimes is asking former players in particular to come out and get involved.

All referees are reminded that it is mandatory for them to attend a training session at the National Sports Complex tonight, starting at 6.00 p.m.