Cultivating Young Talents into Refereeing Across the Nation

The Bhutan Football Federation kick off with the inaugural of the four days grassroots refereeing program in Phuentsholing today. The program is a significant step towards promoting and nurturing young talents in the field of football officiating. A total of 20 participants have been selected to partake in this pioneering initiative, comprising 8 girls and 12 boys.

The chosen participants hail from various regions, including Gelephu, Samtse, Punakha, and Paro, showcasing the program’s commitment to inclusivity and nationwide representation. The age range of the participants spans from 10 to 17 years, underlining the emphasis on cultivating referee skills among young individuals.

The program is led by experienced instructors and referees in the country, namely Mr. Ratan Rai, Mr. Namgay Dorji, and Mr. Pema Norbu, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the sessions. The session are mentored by Mr. Ugyen Dorji,  the Head of the Referee Department, providing guidance and support to ensure the success of the grassroots program.

This initiative not only marks a historic moment for the Bhutan Football Federation but also highlights the dedication to fostering a new generation of referees. The inclusion of both girls and boys in the program reflects a commitment to gender equality and the belief that everyone should have an equal opportunity to contribute to the sport.

According to Mr. Ugyen Dorji, the Head of the Referee Department, “This marks the initiation of the first-ever grassroots refereeing program in the country, and it’s currently in its pilot phase. If proven successful, we are committed to extending the program to other districts. One of our primary goals is to involve the younger generation in a meaningful activity during the winter break.”

As the participants undergo training in Phuentsholing, the program aims to instil not only the technical aspects of refereeing but also essential values such as fair play, integrity, and teamwork. The Bhutan Football Federation envisions that this grassroots refereeing program will catalyze the development of football officiating in the country, laying the foundation for a bright future in the sport.