[Image: Paul Smith/Football Queensland]
Queensland referees will have the opportunity to learn from a wide range of sporting experts at the inaugural SEQ Referee Conference in January next year.
Football Queensland will bring together specialists in sports psychology and excercise science as well as some of Australia’s leading match officials, including 2016 NRL grand final referee Matt Cecchin.
While open to match officials from across the state, the free SEQ Referee Conference is expected to set the platform for future incarnations in Central and North Queensland.
Football Queensland’s State Referee Development Officer David Wiebe says it’s an ideal time for the Third Team to share their knowledge.
“The introduction of the new Laws of the Game for 2017 is the perfect reason for referees to get together and discuss challenges and ways to improve,” Wiebe said.
“There is plenty for referees of every level to learn and we want to provide the best opportunity for them to grow.
-> CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE
“At this stage we are still in the planning process for seminars to be held in regional areas, but the goal moving forward is to develop yearly events.”
Highly-rated rugby league referee Cecchin will be joined as a guest speaker by sports psychologist Damien Stewart for insights into mental preparation and sports scientist, sports trainer and strength and conditioning coach Cici Severin for advice on nutrition and physical performance.
The one-day conference, to be held at Griffith University on 29 January, will also feature a presentation from a Football Federation Australia representative.
“It’s exciting to be able to gain insights and advice beyond the pitch and beyond just football,” Wiebe said.
Referees are asked to register online for the free seminar due to a limited number of available spaces.
