AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: The Match Officials nominated for the I-League 2023-24 season, underwent a dedicated pre-season training programme for the first time, which was designed to improve performance standards and consistency. The programme was conducted in New Delhi, on October 3 and 4.

Present at the workshop were AIFF President Mr Kalyan Chaubey, Secretary General Dr Shaji Prabhakaran, Deputy Secretary General Mr Satyanarayan M, and Chief Refereeing Officer Mr Trevor Kettle.

Dr Prabhakaran said after the programme, “It is for the first time that the I-League match officials have come together for this important workshop to prepare ourselves before the start of the league. This is a reflection of the seriousness which we are trying to develop for our referees to give their best, and to minimise the mistakes on the pitch. Giving them the best experiences through these interactions and going through last season’s assessments will help us build very competent professional referees at the top of the pyramid.” Mr Kettle said, “The challenges and pressures of officiating India’s Elite football and the stakes of winning continue to grow every year. The continued growth and profile of the I-League, and the Second and Third Division Leagues will undoubtedly mean a more competitive season ahead than the last, increasing the pressures and demands on match officials. Therefore, continual technical training must be undertaken throughout the season for best preparedness. The match officials are highly motivated and looking forward to the I-League season.”