Get Into Refereeing
Make a difference to the game
CHANCE TO PROGRESS
Support with development
Whether you are playing in an eleven-a-side match, a small-sided competition or a new format such as Futsal, one person will remain a constant presence: the referee. There are tonnes of registered referees in Devon... but there is always space for more!
They range from those just setting out in the game to individuals who have progressed to the FA Premier and Football Leagues. We support the development of match officials from initially booking onto courses, in gaining promotion and also via the form of mentoring and assessment through a referee’s career.
Reasons to Referee
Whether your ambition is to referee at a World Cup Final or your local under 11's team in their league matches then Devon FA can help you along the way. From local park football all the way up to the FA Cup Final, football needs referees.
Devon FA can provide the training, support and experience to help you progress as far as you want to. We have the resources, training and support mechanisms in place to assist you in achieving your goal.
frequently asked questions
How we can help
Anyone aged 14 or over can become a referee. There is no upper age limit but candidates need to be able to fully participate in practical sessions. Until you reach the age of 16 you will only be able to referee games involving children at least 1 year younger than yourself.
The first step is to read all the information on this page. If you have any burning questions please contact our Referee Development Officer, Richard Mason, on richard.mason@devonfa.com. If you decide to start your refereeing journey here the 'referee course' (11v11 or 9v9) will only be a few weeks away.
All referees have to undertake FA Safeguarding Children training before they will be able to register with The FA as a referee. This will need to be completed prior to attending the first day of the course as it is a prerequisite of attending. Certification will last for three years with the cost of this being included in the course fee.
Respect
The FA's Respect programme provides a series of tools for leagues, clubs, coaches, players and parents from grassroots to elite football - to help ensure a safe, positive environment in which to play the game.