The success of The FA National Referee Development Programme (NRDP) in producing and retaining quality referees is determined by the choice of Partner Clubs and Leagues that are selected by the Shropshire FA to support the programme.

All clubs used in the programme are signed up to and actively participating in the FA Respect
Programme. These partners are aware of their responsibilities towards the development of selected referees and create an environment where potential and commitment will be encouraged to develop.

Partner Clubs are required to meet all Safeguarding requirements, follow the FA RESPECT programme, abide by the National Referee Development Programme Codes of Conduct and provide a safe and appropriate environment for match officials at all times.

Similarly National Referee Development Programme Partner Leagues are required to fulfil all of the above, as well as being an FA Charter Standard League, with allocated Referee Coaches and Mentors, and with a commitment to Independent Referee Appointments for the benefit and development of referees within the League

PARTNER LEAGUE AWARD – SHROPSHIRE JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE
The Shropshire F.A. is delighted to announce that the Shropshire Junior Football League are the County F.A’s first recipient of this award as they have demonstrated a commitment and support in the development of referees in Shropshire.

As an FA Charter Standard League, Shropshire Junior League have included Referee Development and the introduction of Independent Referees Appointments as a key priority for a number of years as part of its League Development Plan .This has seen the introduction of Independent Appointments at Under 13s and Under 16s age groups this season with further age groups to follow in the coming seasons.

The FA and Shropshire FA acknowledge that the National Referee Development Programme will be unable to retain or develop match officials without the support of their network of Partner Leagues and Clubs. The FA and Shropshire FA acknowledge that the retention and development of referees is not only a success for the programme but also to those Partner Clubs and Leagues who support it.

Photo left to right : Jim Mitchell (SJFL President). Mike Hames (SJFL Chairman). Don Goodman ( FA Guest Speaker). Nigel Harris (SJFL Referees Appointments).

Photo courtesy of Yarrington Limited