The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is gearing up for an exciting new season, and the preparation begins with the comprehensive pre-season programs for referees. Courtesy of Nigeria Whistlers and overseen by Sir Kelechi Mejuobi, this year’s pre-season schedule promises rigorous training and thorough assessment to ensure top-tier officiating.
Assessor’s Program:
– Arrival: 14th August
– Assessor’s Seminar: 15th & 16th August
The assessors will gather to discuss the latest in officiating standards and strategies, ensuring they are well-prepared to evaluate and guide the referees through their pre-season regimen.
Referee Batch A:
– Arrival/Medical: 17th August
– Fitness Test:18th August
– Field/Lectures: 19th & 20th August
– Mini Match: 21st August
– Departure: 22nd August
Referee Batch A will arrive and undergo medical evaluations on the 17th, followed by a fitness test on the 18th to confirm their physical readiness.
The 19th and 20th will be dedicated to fieldwork and lectures, focusing on the latest rule changes and best practices.
The training will culminate in a mini-match on the 21st, allowing referees to apply their skills in a real-game scenario before departing on the 22nd.
Referee Batch B:
– Arrival/Medical: 22nd August
– Fitness Test: 23rd August
– Field/Lectures: 24th & 25th August
– Mini Match: 26th August
– Departure: 26th August
Similarly, Batch B’s program mirrors that of Batch A, with their activities commencing on the 22nd and concluding on the 26th of August. This structured approach ensures that all referees, regardless of batch, receive identical training and assessment opportunities.
With the NPFL scheduled to kick off on the 30th of August, these intensive pre-season programs are crucial for maintaining high officiating standards. Fans and teams alike can look forward to a season marked by fair play and exceptional referee performance.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NPFL season approaches!