George Saijah, the National Chairman of the Referee Association of Ghana, expressed his support for the GFA President’s recent call to enhance referee standards as the new football season approaches. In an interview with journalists, Saijah acknowledged that while the association has made strides in training and developing referees, there is still a need for significant improvement.
Saijah stated, “We have noticed the challenges over the past seasons, and it’s time to go back to the drawing board. It’s essential for us to ensure that our referees are not only trained but also regularly assessed to maintain high standards. We need to revisit our training programs and possibly introduce new methods that will prepare our referees for the dynamic nature of the game.
“He also highlighted the importance of embracing reforms, noting that refereeing standards must align with global best practices. “Refereeing is not just about enforcing rules; it’s about understanding the flow of the game and making the right calls under pressure. We need to invest in more robust training programs that equip our referees with these skills,” Saijah added.
Saijah further emphasized the role of technology in improving refereeing decisions and suggested that incorporating more technological tools could aid referees in making more accurate decisions on the pitch.
Looking forward, the Referee Association plans to organize more workshops and training sessions, aiming to bring referees up to speed with current trends and best practices in the sport. Saijah is optimistic that with continued effort and support, Ghanaian referees can achieve the highest standards and contribute positively to the development of football in the country.
