On Wednesday, April 26 in Kyiv, a two-day gathering for promising domestic referees and assistant referees studying at the Ukrainian Football Association's Young Referee School came to an end. The event took place at the House of Football and on adjacent football fields.

Initiated by UAF President, UEFA Executive Committee member Andriy Pavelka, Head of the Referees' Committee Luciano Luca, and thanks to our Armed Forces, young referees had the opportunity for the first time to conduct a multi-day seminar rather than a one-day seminar as was previously done.

Photo by UAF press service

The opening of the seminar included participation from Deputy Head of the Referees' Committee, National School Director Serhiy Lisenchuk, committee members, and staff from the arbitration department.

Luciano Luca conveyed greetings to young referees and wished them to always set only the highest goals for themselves. The Head of the Referees' Committee noted that a stable level of refereeing achieved in regional and amateur matches is what allows growth and advancement to higher ranks.

Photo by UAF press service

The program included FIFA-approved tests — theoretical preparation, video and fitness tests. Participants analyzed refereeing in national first division matches, watched a series of video clips, reviewed contentious moments, and discussed the latest trends in football arbitration from instructors — Referees' Committee member Leonid Yarmolinsky and leading UAF specialist Viktor Dordo.

Specialists planned theoretical sessions on various aspects of refereeing (handball, stopping a clear goal-scoring opportunity, violent conduct, reckless challenges, simulation, etc.).

Photo by UAF press service

It is also worth noting that similar work was carried out separately for referees and assistant referees. After the conclusion of the gathering, Serhiy Lisenchuk expressed gratitude on behalf of Luciano Luca to everyone involved in organizing and conducting the event, as well as expressed hopes that this initiative, thanks to the Armed Forces and UAF leadership, will continue into the future.