THE SOCIETY

The society originated from the core of a handful of referees who perceived a need for a society in Eastleigh that would cater for the needs of local referees.

Much work went into ensuring that we conformed to National RA requirements with regard to affiliation etc., and also to ensure we would be offering the kind of society that was needed.

In a remarkably short time, the basis of the Eastleigh & District Referees' Society was formed and invitations for membership were circulated to all referees in the area, together with FA and local League people and others who were interested in football. It was agreed that we should include a wider cross section of people interested in football as we referees are, after all, merely players in the bigger world of the sport and are all basically lovers of football first.

Response was immediate and almost, overwhelming with membership applications from near and far, including applications for associate membership from many of the other societies in the Hants & Dorset area and from the County FA and local Football Leagues.

The scene was set for the inaugural monthly meeting on 11 August 1998 when it was reported that a membership of 68 had already been achieved - and this would rise to 75 by the end of the evening!

The aims and plans of the society were discussed, and members were well entertained by the Training Officer's presentation of Law changes, and by our Guest Speaker, Ron Roberts, FA Area Advisor (Referees).

The Objectives for the Society were established as follows

• To provide opportunities for members to meet periodically and be supportive of each other
• To promote the best interests of Referees and of the Game
• To improve the status of Referees
• To improve the standard of Refereeing and facilitate Referee Training and Development
• To promote a close relationship between Referees and Football Associations and kindred bodies
• To protect members from injustice or unfair treatment
• To make such representation to the governing bodies as may be thought necessary for the good of the Game and the benefit of Referees and Refereeing
• To provide desirable sports and social activities
• To seek to retain in membership those who have given up active refereeing, that their experience may benefit the newcomer
• To extend a warm welcome to Football League Officials, Football League players and all good friends of the society at members meetings and encourage them to participate in Society activities as appropriate