Twelve participants successfully completed the CIFA Referee Beginners Course which was held June 19th – 28th 2012 at the George Town Primary School. The presentation ceremony was held at CIFA Office on Wednesday July 11th, 2012, where certificates were presented to the successful participants by one of Cayman’s football pioneer and member of CIFA Referee Committee, Mr. Lenny Hew. Also receiving his certificate was Mr. Kenroy Willis, who successfully completed his referee basic training in December 2011.

Mr. Alfredo Whittaker who currently heads the CIFA Refereeing Department was also present and welcomed the new referees to the CIFA family. He reminded them that their dream to represent Cayman on the international stage can be realized with hard work and commitment.

CIFA’s Senior Referee Instructor Mr. Livingston Bailey stated that he was very delighted to see some of our local young people participating in the course. They certainly brought vibrancy and enthusiasm to the classroom sessions. Mr. Bailey said he is an advocate of succession planning, hence the influx of youngsters in CIFA’s referee program will certainly enhance Cayman’s representation at the FIFA international level within the next three to five years.

Three of Cayman U20 Women National players namely Shanelle Frederick, Chelsea Brown and Kaela Ebanks were among the participants who successfully completed the course. Mr. Bailey said he was happy with the commitment made by these three young ladies. He believes that the knowledge they have acquired will no doubt, enhance their interpretation of the laws of the game thereby fostering a more positive environment with on field match officials.

Mr. Bailey also highlighted that with the implementation of new FIFA regulations on the Organization of Refereeing in all FIFA Member Associations as at the 1st April 2011, the CIFA Refereeing Department is channeling its focus on the development of all sectors of refereeing. However, special emphasis will be geared to the development of our youth referees by giving them the opportunities to officiate in grassroots and youth competitions, to enhance their skills and prepare them for the advanced levels of competitions. This process will indeed bring steady maturity to their development and create the gateway for their advancement to the FIFA International Panels where they can represent their country as great ambassador.

Photo: CIFA Referee Committee members Mr. W. Petit, Mr. L. Hew, Mr. L. Bailey (seating from left to right) and the newly certified referees at the presentation