Vanuatu Football Federation has increased the number of referees who have recieved FIFA badges.
The VFF saw their numbers of qualified referees rise from six to nine this year. Newcomers Tony Meltetamath (Assistant referee), Alick Lukai (assistant referee) and Allan Daniel (futsal referee) have joined the existing list of Lency Fred (Referee), Mahit Chilia (Assistant Referee), Nawen Hopkins (assistant Referee), Michael Joseph (assistant Referee), Harry Atisson (futsal referee) and Pita Pakoatong (futsal referee).
A brief ceremony was held on Thursday morning at the VFF office to present the FIFA badges and recognize the developments in Vanutau Football.
When presenting the FIFA badges, Mr. Maltock said Vanuatu referees are progressing well and it is an honor for VFF to note this progress.
“You deserve these awards for what you are doing for Vanuatu football, Maltock saud. “Now you have an obligation to serve VFF and FIFA in all competitions. VFF has to make use of this opportunity to develop football”.
Maltock explained that refereeing duties were very important in matches because they helped teach players to respect fair play and the rules of the game.
Maltock urged the new FIFA referees to be ready to carry out their duties not only in Port Vila but also in all Provinces. He hoped the referees would help transfer their skills and experiences throughout the region.
VFF has allocated a budget for Referee Development Officer, Harry Atisson, to visit all Provinces to explain the rules.