Referees from the Southern Sector have begun the mandatory assessment process in Koforidua as the Association (GFA) intensifies preparations for the 2026/27 football season.
The referees are undergoing a written examination designed to assess their knowledge and understanding of the Laws of the Game, as part of the comprehensive qualification process for match officials ahead of the new season.
The exercise brings together referees from the southern part of the country, who are being evaluated as the GFA Referees Department works to ensure that only technically sound, knowledgeable and well-prepared officials are available for appointments across its competitions.
The written examination is the first in a series of assessments that will be conducted to determine the readiness of the referees. Participants will subsequently undergo physical fitness tests and other technical evaluations before they can qualify for appointments during the upcoming season.
The assessment programme forms part of the GFA's commitment to maintaining high standards of refereeing through continuous education, rigorous testing and physical preparation.
Referees are expected to demonstrate a strong understanding of the Laws of the Game, decision-making principles and the latest interpretations governing modern football officiating.
The Koforidua exercise follows similar assessments conducted for referees in the Northern Sector, as the GFA continues its nationwide preparations to build a pool of qualified and physically fit match officials for the 2026/27 campaign.
The Association has in recent years strengthened its referee development programmes through regular training, examinations, fitness tests and FIFA and CAF-supported capacity-building initiatives.
The ongoing assessments are therefore expected to ensure that referees enter the new season fully prepared to meet the technical, physical and professional demands of modern football.
Further fitness examinations and assessments will be conducted as the GFA moves closer to finalising the list of referees eligible to officiate in the various competitions for the 2026/27 season.
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