Rather than just watching from the touchline why not get more involved  and volunteer to ref  the game? You can be a fully qualified referee  at a modest cost  and time commitment  to study. Herts FA run courses throughout the year at a current ( 2016) cost of £125 per candidate.

Qualified referees receive a fee for appearing in matches, at both junior and senior level, so it is not only rewarding in terms of personal satisfaction, but financially as well. Young referees can earn good pocket money and still play themselves at weekends.

The key points about the course are:

• the minimum  age  to go on a referee course is 14  years
• you are required to attend a pre course workshop  ( 2 hours) entitled “ Get into Refereeing” before going on the course itself, so that candidates  fully understand  the course criteria and commitment. The separate fee for this element is £10 .
• the main course is based on 18 learning hours, which can be spread  over number of days
• courses are held in Letchworth and at other centres in Beds and Cambs.

If you are interested and want to find out more, including the  courses available, go to the web site of Hertfordshire FA