The second batch of the capacity building course for the Catch Them Young (CTY) female referees under the FIFA Women’s Development Programme commenced on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
This initiative forms part of the Football Association’s broader commitment to advancing women’s football development by strengthening key structures of the women’s game, with a particular focus on the recruitment, training and retention of young referees across the country.
Day one of the programme focused on enlightening participants on the 2025/26 Laws of the Game, laying a strong foundation for their understanding of modern officiating standards.
The session was attended by notable figures, including Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Women’s Football Development Manager), Alex Kotey (GFA Referees Manager), Christine Zigah (Chairperson, Referees Committee), Emmanuella Aglago (GFA and CAF Referees Instructor), Beatrice Thaud (Physical Instructor) and Delight Alorbu (Fitness Instructor).
In her opening remarks, Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong welcomed participants and outlined the objectives of the training, emphasizing that the course is designed to equip young female referees with technical knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to excel in their officiating careers and contribute meaningfully to the continuous growth of women’s football in Ghana.
The highlight of the day’s session was a detailed presentation on the 2025/26 Laws of the Game, led by Alex Kotey and Beatrice Thaud. Mr. Kotey walked participants through key updates, including the introduction of stricter regulations on player conduct, such as limiting referee approach to only the team captain in certain scenarios to reduce dissent.
He also included revised drop-ball rules aimed at ensuring fairness depending on ball location and intended possession as well as enhanced concussion substitution protocols and updated VAR procedures. The establishment of a “no-go zone” around referees to prevent player encroachment during heated moments was also discussed.
These updates, he explained, are designed to improve fairness, safety, and respect for officials on the field.
The course will continue on Tuesday October 14, 2025, with practical on-field sessions, focusing on physical fitness preparation, positioning, game reading, and decision-making under pressure. Participants will also undergo physical conditioning and simulation exercises to align theory with practice.
The GFA, through its Catch Them Young Refereeing Programme, remains steadfast in its mission to develop a new generation of skilled, confident, and professional female referees. This initiative not only provides young girls with career pathways in officiating but also ensures that women’s football in Ghana continues to thrive through well-trained officials who uphold the integrity of the game.
GFA Communications