Our recent Referee Council application process has seen some significant change in personnel. We introduce and welcome the new council who will be headed by former and well-respected referee, Tony Bosevski who is excited about his new role.
“I am genuinely excited about working with the new referee Council, dedicating resources to support our referees, and actively engaging with the broader football community. I aim to listen attentively to feedback that serves the best interests of the game we all love”, Tony said.
Joining Tony is Phil Holt. Phil is also a former referee and councillor with decades of experience, particularly in administration. Phil has previously held positions of Secretary, Appointments Officer, Referee Development and Junior Committee between 1998 – 2013. He has been watching games regularly and is keen to make an administrative comeback giving back to the game.
We are also delighted to welcome back Lottie Cabassi-Power to the circle. She was a highly talented female referee who regularly officiated men’s games. Lottie was an amazing role model for young female referees before turning her attention to law and a new professional career path. She returns with enthusiasm and hopes to help promote and improve the quality of refereeing, especially to females.
Brodie Merchant also joins the Council for the first time. Having started his referee career at Helensburgh, Brodie is a classic example of someone going through our pathway. Still only 23, Brodie is pushing his way through the top leagues in NSW and whilst he has had limited appearances here in the Illawarra last season, his maturity and experience for someone so young is well beyond his years. He has been exposed to some high-level training and hopes to share that with our members.
Matt Staples is another young talented referee who joins the council. His referee career is also on the rise, and he has made a huge difference to a neighbouring association with his Sports Admin background and referee qualifications. Having spent a season refereeing in the Illawarra last year, Matt sees great opportunity for changes and progression.
We also welcome back Paul Flemming and Phil Torpy who have been part of the council for a few years, and they will no doubt help the new council make the transition more seamless for members and clubs. Paul has been an integral part of the Referee Development Program and his work with our most talented young referees cannot be underestimated. Phil is widely known across the football community and his knowledge of the Laws of the Game coupled with his experience as liaison to referees at major football events makes him an asset to the Council.
We take this opportunity to thank Rex and the outgoing counsellors for their support, commitment and contribution over the last few years which leaves a solid base to progress further.
