Bolivian Football Federation Boosts Young Referees with FIFA-Aided Seminar

The Bolivian Football Federation (FBF) is actively working to enhance its national refereeing system through two seminars in Cochabamba, supported by FIFA. These events are designed to identify and develop promising young referees for professional football. A key component is a scouting program involving 27 referees from eight departmental associations, all aspiring to officiate in professional matches.

FIFA instructors Wilson Lamoroux and Paulo Camelo are leading the training. The FBF's Refereeing Directorate and Referee Commission are conducting thorough evaluations. These assessments cover various aspects of refereeing performance, including video analysis of plays, physical fitness, theoretical knowledge, and decision-making under pressure. Referees are also undergoing body composition tests to assess their overall physical condition.

The selected referees, aged 21 to 25, typically have two to four years of experience, often officiating in lower divisions. This scouting initiative offers them a crucial opportunity to showcase their abilities and pursue advancement. The FBF's ultimate goal is to progressively integrate these identified talents into Bolivian professional football, fostering a pipeline of new, skilled officials for the sport.