BC Soccer Hosts Inaugural Futsal Referee Clinic

This past weekend marked a significant milestone for soccer within British Columbia as the province hosted its first-ever BC Soccer Futsal Referee Clinic. The clinic, which took place on both Saturday and Sunday, was a comprehensive program aimed at developing the skills of future futsal referees in BC. The clinic was attended by approximately 13 participants, eager to broaden their understanding of the game.

Held at the impressive Olympic Oval in Richmond, BC, the clinic brought together a diverse group of individuals, all passionate about futsal and eager to contribute to the sport. The Olympic Oval provided an ideal setting, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a dynamic atmosphere that only added to the experience.

Participants were exposed to futsal, FIFA’s approved indoor soccer, a fast-paced variant of soccer played on a smaller, indoor pitch. The two-day clinic was a mix of practical and in-class sessions, designed to provide a well-rounded education in futsal officiating. The practical training allowed referees to practice their decision-making skills, positioning, and game management, all crucial aspects of officiating futsal matches.

In the classroom, participants were given the opportunity to discuss theoretical aspects of futsal refereeing. They learned about the Futsal laws of the game, the importance of communication, and how to handle various scenarios that can arise during a match. The in-class sessions were interactive and provided a platform for participants to ask questions, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions.

"Futsal is growing across the country and throughout BC, so It was fantastic to see the high levels of engagement both in the classroom and on the pitch. Participants had the privilege of learning from Canada Soccer's top futsal instructor, Joe Audi. Training and developing quality referees is essential to ensure proper development of the sport. " Stated Hagen Harold, BC Soccers Referee Development Coordinator.

This important initiative is a continuation of the work done earlier in 2023 when BC was represented at the Canada Soccer Futsal National championship for the first time. As the sport continues to gain popularity and recognition throughout Canada, developing well-trained referees becomes increasingly important. By hosting events like this, BC Soccer and its partners are taking vital steps in preparing the next generation of futsal referees, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of futsal in the region.

The goal of BC Soccer is to provide registered Referees and Development Support Leaders across the province with the tools necessary to help advance their abilities, for more information about BC Soccer Referee Clinics and Programs, please click here.

16 Oct 2023

BC Soccer Association

Established in 1904, BC Soccer is the largest provincial sports organization (PSO) in BC and the third largest soccer-specific PSO in Canada with over 150,000 participants, consisting of registered players, coaches, referees, administrators and soccer leaders. As a professional not-for-profit society and a member of Canada Soccer, BC Soccer is committed to providing the widest opportunities for existing and potential participants, as well as provide support in the most effective and appropriate way for current players, parents, volunteers, member clubs, leagues, and districts.

Safe Sport Statement

BC Soccer believes that everyone involved in soccer has the right to participate in safe and inclusive environments free of abuse, harassment, discrimination, and to enjoy the sport at whatever level or capacity they participate in. The welfare of everyone involved in soccer is the foremost consideration and in particular, the protection of children in the sport is the responsibility of everyone involved.