By default and 1 year after the decision was taken to investigate the formation of a referee Association myself and Derek were tasked with this.

As you will be aware we have been working in obtaining information with a view to starting a referee association.

The exact role of what this association will do is somewhat a blank sheet and can be directed in the way the referees themselves wish it to; of course training is one aspect, as is development through grades.

We are currently appointing referees to national premier league and maybe this is something that is to be expanded upon to all divisions?

Finance is also an aspect of the association; shirts have been purchased for the premier league through a sponsorship deal with SLAPSHOT, some grants will be applied for in the next few weeks with the assistance of Peter Lonsdale

But as said it is a little of an open page, Derek has some ideas and good ones, others too will have them and they should be heard and considered

But considered by whom?

Initially a CHAIR PERSON, who can then put in place a team of others who will help run and direct the association.

Should you wish to stand as CHAIR, prepared to work for your colleagues, or wish to nominate some one else,? please ask them first to save time, then please forward names ? (this does not have to be a current referee or even one from the past BUT SOME ONE KEEN TO HELP DEVELOP THE PRODUCT)

At this stage I wish to point out that whilst I have been driving the information return and also appointing the premier league referees, I am not pushing myself forward for election to CHAIR and it will not be me even reluctantly ? a little precocious? No just making all aware its open to anyone.

The election will be done by email, from nominations received,

THIS ASSOCIATION COULD BE FOR THE BENEFIT OF YOUR COLLEAGUES, IF YOU HAVE THE TIME, DRIVE AND INCLINATION THEN WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR LEADERSHIP

Names to be forwarded to
Spinner65@sky,com by the end of November 08

to start 1st of January until (end of June 2009, when further elections for 2 years could be held)