Under 18 Referee Armbands

As part of the Amateur FA’s initiative to support our young match officials we are sending out yellow arm bands which identify those who are under 18.

The aim of this initiative is to remind coaches, players and spectators that these match officials are still children and therefore are subject to the children’s safeguarding legislation. Refereeing should be a fun, safe and positive experience for all, especially children. They have the right to be treated with respect, kindness and understanding at all times. 

Sarah Robinson, Designated Safeguarding Officer has said "It is no secret that match officials can be subject to verbal abuse in the game from various individuals. We want to eradicate this behaviour and hope that our Under 18 match officials wearing yellow arm bands will make others think twice about how they speak to and act in front of them. We must all remember that they are still learning and therefore should be encouraged and supported as much as possible." 

The AFA are passionate about supporting and retaining the next generation of match officials and we hope that all of our clubs, volunteers , parents and spectators will join us in making the environment in which they officiate a positive one for all.

There is never an excuse to verbally abuse a young match officials .  If you have an issue with a young referee please report this to your County FA rather than approaching the referee directly. If you are a young referee and have experienced abuse please contact your County RDO and DSO as soon as possible to report this.

Your Feedback matters

Following the release of these arm bands we want to hear your views and opinion on them.  Any feedback , positive or negative is welcomed by us here at the AFA. If you are an Under 18 match official who is wearing the arm band or an over 18 who has witnessed them in action , we are keen to hear from you.

Feedback form