Football officials from Barbados and the region have been advised to bring about a change in attitude and show tangible growth in order to ensure that regional officials make the grade for the 2018 World Cup.
That advice came from FIFA physical instructor David Meikle as he addressed 25 officials who attended an elite referees course which was held at the Barbados Olympic Association’s headquarters in Wildey on Monday.
Pointing to the advancement of Gillian Martindale who officiated at an Under-17 Women’s World Cup finals, Jamaican Meikle stated that other officials must show the commitment to reach the highest level of performance to represent the region at regional and international events.
Those sentiments were echoed by president of the Barbados Football Association (BFA) Randy Harris, who indicated that FIFA continued to be good towards Barbados in granting it the opportunities to host training courses for officials.
“The BFA has embarked on a drive to have professional administrative staff, inclusive of a general secretary and a marketing officer. Thus, as we go forward we must take our officials with us,” stated Harris.
Chairman of the referee’s committee, Barney Callender, cautioned the officials that they must grab every opportunity to learn and to improve and this would redound to the benefit of Barbados and the region.
The graduating officials included Shannon Gibson, Tonia Deane, Edwin Adams, Clifton Garnes. (KB)
