As preparations intensify for the upcoming 2024/2025 football season, the Osun State Football Referees Council (OSFRC) has conducted its annual State Physical Fitness Test for all active referees.
Held on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the Osogbo Township Stadium, the event marks a crucial step in readying the referees for the National Fitness Test and the new season’s demands.
Mayowa Otun, spokesperson for the Osun council, provided details on the event, stating, “As part of the annual ritual for referees in Osun, the Hon. Toki-led council executives organized the State Fitness Test at the Osogbo Township Stadium.”
The test included both medical and physical evaluations, essential for ensuring referees are fit and qualified for the upcoming season’s matches.
Hon. Fatai Kolapo Toki, Chairman of the Osun State Football Referees Council, emphasized the importance of the fitness test.
“This exercise is a prerequisite for referees, male and female, to prepare for the national fitness test and ensure they are ready for match appointments in the state,” he said.
Toki highlighted that the test not only assesses fitness levels but also addresses discipline, medical concerns, and overall abilities.
The chairman also noted that this year’s exercise aims to identify referees who qualify for the Zonal Fitness Test and those who require additional training to meet national and zonal standards.
“Discipline will be a key focus, and the preparations undertaken during this preseason will ensure our referees are well-prepared for the upcoming season,” Toki added.
Osun FA Chairman, Mayor Olusola Phillips Fanawopo, attended the event to observe the proceedings.
Notable attendees from the OSFRC included Elder JS Adedeji, Pastor Funsho Asimolowo, and referees’ assessors Mr Sanni Biodun and Mr M.A. Sule.
The event demonstrated the council’s commitment to enhancing the quality and readiness of its referees for the forthcoming football season.
