Capital Football will deliver it’s first PRIDE Referee Level 4 Course on Saturday 10th June, providing an opportunity for LGBTQIA+ people and allies to get involved in refereeing football in a safe and inclusive environment.
Following on from the Pride Celebration Round in the A-Leagues earlier this year, this Referee Level 4 course will be held during LGBT Pride month, signifying Capital Football’s ongoing commitment to making football accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Capital Football’s Head of Referees, Kearney Robinson, said that the course is another step in the direction of unity and celebration.
“It feels only natural to offer a course that celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. The LGBTQIA+ community is one that has a mixed history in football, but with icons like Josh Cavello, Sam Kerr, and Michelle Heyman showing that performance is all that matters, we want to extend that to the refereeing space.”
“We’ve seen this year a massive celebration of LGBTQIA+ identities across Australia and I believe that this is the next step in building a space that is safe and enjoyable for all in a sport that we all love.”
Trans referee instructor and coach, Alex Eagleton, spoke about the importance of Pride Month in the calendar and the impact of the recent growth in football’s diversity.
“Pride Month is astronomically important in the calendar because it lets us take the time to celebrate the beauty and joy of people being who they are. However, it is also important that we take a moment during this celebration to remember our history. The Harlem Renaissance in the 20’s and 30’s and the Stonewall Riots of 1969 are two pivotal points in our history that we must recognise and respect.”
“The recent growth in diversity in football has ben joyous to watch happen. Seeing more people in the sport I love being comfortable and open about who they are gave me hope at the start of my queer journey. The referee community at Capital Football have been incredibly welcoming and supportive of my and my growth over the last five years. It truly warms my heart and makes me hopeful for what the future of this beautiful sport will look like.”
The inaugural Referee Level 4 PRIDE course will be held on Saturday 10th June. Part A of the RL4 course will take place at the Ainslie Football Club from 9:30am to 2.30pm, before heading to Southwell Park to complete Part B of the course from 3pm to 5pm. Participants must attend both sessions to complete their qualification.
Registration for the PRIDE Referee Level 4 course can be completed via the following links:
- PRIDE RL4 Course (Part A) – Register Now
- PRIDE RL4 Training Session (Part B) – Register Now
