The day started with 3 interactive out workshops with John Farries and Chris Kidd leading on positioning a set plays, Keith Clarke and Dave Woodcock looking at the application of advantage and Ben James, with some useful tips from Dennis Hedges, looking at positioning at corners.

The workshops were 45 minutes in length and focused on the practical aspects of each topic with all referees fully participating in the exercises which made the sessions both fun and educational.  The weather was kind and the feedback from the participants was that the sessions were all of great value in developing the referee’s skills.  The sessions were also interspersed with a sumptuous lunch provided by OCFC and this set the assembled group up well for the afternoon.

Following the completion of the practical workshops we all reassembled in doors where John Busby, one of the counties senior referees and a National List Assistant Referee, gave an excellent presentation on briefing club assistant referees.  This again was interactive with lots of audience participation and topped off by some interesting video clips which promoted a lot of discussion.

Finally the group were given an update on Assessing, Promotion, Mentoring and the amendments to the Laws of the Game for the coming season before Brian King, the OFA Referee Committee Chairman formerly closed this year’s event.

The feedback for this year’s event was very positive with some even saying it was the best Pre-Season Seminar ever and so thanks has to go to OCFC for the use of their facilities and the buffet lunch,  the tutors who delivered the sessions and of course all the referees who attended as without their  support we would not have had such an educational and enjoyable day.  Next year’s event is scheduled for Sunday 02 August 2015 so why not block the day now in your calendar so as to ensure you are not one of those who heard about the event afterwards but your are one of those who was at the event!

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