Bruno Gaisie is searching for the next generation of football referees

Published: 12 November, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

A YOUNG match official from the Camden and Regent’s Park Youth League is hoping to breathe new life into football after under­taking a quest to find the next generation of referees. 

Bruno Gaisie wants to see “more young people” follow in his footsteps by picking up a whistle and cards on match days. The 15-year-old is also hoping to open up the world of refereeing to more ethnic minority groups in a bid to keep the future of football flowing. 

Wannabe referees from across Camden and Islington were put through their paces by London FA tutors

Bruno’s enthusiasm is already reaping rewards – he has secured £2,300 in funding from South Camden Youth Access Point to help cover the costs of hosting a three-day course at the Hub in Regent’s Park. 

A team of 20 wannabe referees from across Camden and Islington were put through their paces by London FA tutors Tunde Adebayo and Jamaal Horne, learning all about the rules of the game and working through potential scenarios that might pop up on match days. 

“There are not enough talented young referees coming through the ranks. It would be great to help change that,” said Bruno. 

“It would also be great to see more young black and Asian referees coming into the game. I really enjoy refereeing and I want to share that experience. Thanks to the funding we received, we were able to charge people just £50 for a course that would usually cost £165. Hopefully running such courses will help inspire the next generation of referees.”