FOOTBALL: FIGURES from the world of international and national refereeing, including Andre Marriner, Stuart Burt and Michael Oliver, will be special guests at the 2014 Referees Association (RA) Conference on Saturday, July 12.

After last year’s popular event, the RA and the RA-FA Youth Council are planning a ‘bigger and better’ comeback in 2014.

Delivered by prestige guests, this event will incorporate interactive and detailed workshops and presentations run by influential figures in the modern game to inspire referees into fulfilling their potential and progressing through the levels.

In addition to the excellent Saturday line-up, and to cope with the increasing demand, the RA-FA Youth Council have moved their afternoon practical session to The FA’s National Football Centre - St George’s Park in Burton-on-Trent - followed by an evening event at last year’s destination, Hinckley Island Hotel.

The RA-FA Youth Council aims to inspire, develop and promote the refereeing community to provide an inclusive, enjoyable and opportunistic environment, creating high quality match officials of the future.

After experiencing the event last year, young aspiring referee, Oliver Fife, recalled: “It was an amazing opportunity to get involved in referee-specific sessions, with appreciation for the best in the business.

“It’s not often that you get the chance to learn from highly experienced referees, coaches and mentors.”