Who supplies the referees ?
At the beginning of the season, all clubs affiliated with the ESSFA (our local association) pay an up-front fee for the supply of referees. However, whether a referee turns up at the appointed day and time is outside our control. Clubs such a Maroubra United continue to lobby the association for an improvement in referee standards and performance. Please do not abuse, intimidate or threaten any referee (particularly junior referees who find it hard enough to control matches). The drop out rate for junior referees within the first two months of competition due to inappropriate behaviour from coaches, managers and parents is alarming. Further, individuals and the club involved may face censure and/or fines.