Practical focus defines FIFA Young Talent Referees Course at Kasarani

The five-day programme, hosted in Nairobi at the Kasarani Stadium and concluded yesterday, was designed to sharpen officiating standards and equip young referees with the skills needed to handle high-level football.

According to FIFA Instructor Felix Tangawarima, 80 percent of the course was devoted to practical sessions, both on the pitch and in class.

“When referees make errors in theory, it doesn’t affect the outcome of a match,” he explained. “But mistakes on the field of play can decide results. That’s why the programme focused on decision-making in live situations.”

The referees also underwent demanding fitness drills, designed to prepare them for the physical intensity of modern football.

These sessions were complemented by classroom work, where officials reviewed match scenarios, analyzed positioning, and learned to anticipate play.

Tangawarima said the holistic approach was vital in grooming referees capable of officiating at World Cups and Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Beyond the technical aspects, the course highlighted the importance of consistency, communication, and teamwork among officials.

FKF Head of Referees, Edward Lumbugu, praised the young referees for their commitment, noting that the training had visibly improved their performance.

 “They are leaving this programme sharper and more confident,” he said. “The challenge now is to keep them together and monitor their growth so that in two or three years they can compete with the best.”

For participants, the practical exposure stood out as the most impactful element. Assistant referee trainee Grace Nyaranga said working through game management exercises was invaluable.

“We practiced anticipation, positioning, and decision-making under pressure,” she noted. “The field sessions gave us real confidence that we can apply what we’ve learnt in competitive matches.”

She added that seeing trailblazing Kenyan female referees like Mary Njoroge succeed on the global stage has strengthened her determination to excel.

By combining fitness, theory, and extensive practical simulations, the course offered a comprehensive blueprint for developing Kenya’s next generation of referees.

For many of the trainees, the programme was not just about learning rules but about cultivating the discipline, sharpness, and resilience required to succeed at the highest levels of football.