THE fast-growing girls' football club Brayton Belles is backing the FA's campaign to show respect for referees.
“No respect, no referee, no game – that is the message coming from the FA,” said club founder Paul Thompson, “and Belles are supporting the programme by educating their players, coaches and supporters.
“Over 7,000 referees left the game last seaso
n with abuse during and after matches cited as one of the main reasons.
“When it comes to decisions made by our volunteer referees we should all consider that they are volunteers who have a love for the game just like the rest of us,” said Paul.
Club coach Phil Brennan and three of their U16 players – Poppy Brennan, Megan Birch and Ailsa Stainthorpe – have recently qualified as referees after successfully completing a course.
“It was certainly an enlightening experience,” said Phil, adding: “We are now actively refereeing matches and are really enjoying the experience.
However, looking at the matches from a referee’s point of view, you can see the need for the FA-backed Respect programme.” Belles now have ten qualified referees within the club.
BLOWING THE WHISTLE: Poppy Brennan, Megan Birch and Ailsa Stainthorpe (left) – all members of Brayton Belles U16s – have recently qualified as referees.
The full article contains 213 words and appears in Selby Times newspaper.
