Call for local referees to support the growth of football in Lochaber
The continued growth of football in Lochaber is being put at risk unless more local referees come forward to support the game across the area.
With participation increasing at senior, women’s and youth levels, local clubs say the recruitment of referees based in Lochaber is now essential to sustain and build on that progress.
This challenge comes at a time when football in Lochaber is expanding. Fort William FC operates a senior team and reserves, has recently launched a new women’s team and continues to invest in a strong youth development pathway.
Mallaig FC, competing in the West Highland Amateur Football Association, also plays a vital role in providing competitive football within a rural community.
However, the lack of locally based referees is creating significant practical and financial pressures. Clubs are frequently required to bring match officials in from Inverness and Skye meaning Fort William FC and Mallaig FC often pay match fees in excess of £100 per game largely due to travel costs.
Club officials say this is not sustainable in the long term for volunteer-run clubs.
In response the North of Scotland Referees Association are running an online course that will begin on Thursday February 26, running for six consecutive Thursday nights, offering people in Lochaber the chance to qualify as referees and directly support football in their own communities.
Refereeing also offers a practical incentive with match officials able to earn match fees plus travel expenses alongside full training, ongoing support and opportunities to progress within the game.
Rob Coull, Chairman of Fort William FC, said: "Football in Lochaber is growing at every level from our senior teams through to women’s and youth football but that growth needs to be supported.
"Having no referees based locally creates real challenges for clubs. Encouraging people from the area to take up refereeing would make a huge difference and help secure the future of the game here."
Jamie MacGregor, Manager of Mallaig FC, added: "For clubs like Mallaig the referee situation has a major impact.
"Long travel distances currently make midweek fixtures at home impossible meaning that we often have a build-up of fixtures at various points of the season.
"Having referees based in Lochaber would be a massive boost for football in communities like ours and would allow us to host teams from Fort William and Lochalsh during the week rather than exclusively on Saturdays as is the case now."
Billy Baxter, Manager of the North of Scotland Referees Association, has also highlighted the wider benefits and long-term opportunities available through refereeing.
"Refereeing is a great way to stay involved in football, keep fit, and develop confidence," he said.
There are clear pathways for those who want to progress and we provide support at every stage. We would strongly encourage people in Lochaber to consider getting involved."
The referee course is open to anyone with an interest in football, including players, former players, coaches, parents, and supporters. No previous refereeing experience is required.
Anyone interested in signing up for the course, can visit the North of Scotland Referees Association website (www.nosref.org.uk) or social media pages for details of how to get involved and help ensure football in Lochaber continues to grow and thrive.
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