Joe to lead the line for FA course

Jan 17 2007 by Nick Moreton, Birkenhead News

A FORMER Premier League linesman will be helping out at an eight week referee course which starts next Monday.

Joe Copeland will join course leader and FA licensed referee instructor Jack Blakemore and local referee Norman Grundy for the sessions, which are being part sponsored by the Wirral Football Association and will run from this Monday January 22 up until Monday March 26.

The course costs between £55-67 and all entrants will be issued with a free copy of the FA’s latest booklet on the laws of the game, which would normally cost £4 to buy separately, as well as registration as an active referee for the current season.

The fee also includes Criminal Records Bureau checks and a child protection workshop.

Sessions begin at 6.20pm in the first week (6.45pm normally) and last until 9pm at Acre Lane School in Bromborough.

Jack Blakemore said: “Becoming a referee offers people who don’t think they are going to play for England the opportunity to take part in a game of football.

“It’s very enjoyable and friends can be made with other refs at the monthly association meetings.

“It’s also a good way of making a bit of money because all referees get paid and the cost of the course can be made back by refereeing just five games.

“Joe Copeland and local referee Norman Grundy help me over the eight sessions and we all ensure that you are made very welcome.

“We always have a laugh without forgetting that our main aim is to produce a decent referee out of you, thus ensuring that another twenty two players can enjoy our wonderful game.”

For further information, ring Jack on 0151-638 0269 or e-mail him at jack@asktheref.fsnet.co.uk