Football NSW has revealed the 13 referees selected for the 2025 Referee Academy after a comprehensive eight-week trial process.
Over 100 referees from across New South Wales competed for these coveted spots, undergoing a series of evaluations to demonstrate their skills and potential.
The selection process included Laws of the Game quizzes, fitness and agility tests, and live match assessments. This rigorous process ensures that only the most promising candidates are chosen to join the academy, which focuses on preparing referees for high-level officiating roles.
The Football NSW Referee Academy aims to develop referees for state and national competitions, with the ultimate goal of having its members recognised by Football Australia as candidates for roles in the A-League Women’s and Men’s competitions.
Referees in the academy will benefit from:
- Specialised speed and agility training
- Tailored physical programs
- Opportunities to officiate at tournaments
- Match day coaching and targeted development
- Mentorship from experienced NPL and A-Leagues referees
- Access to national and international referee coaches
The academy boasts a history of producing referees who go on to officiate in prestigious competitions such as the Australia Cup, the A-Leagues, AFC tournaments, and even FIFA events.
2025 Referee Academy Members
- Alec Baele – Northern Suburbs Football Referees Association
- Chelsea Leung – Football South Coast Referees
- Grace Williams – Nepean Referees Group
- Hannah Stone – Nepean Referees Group
- Imran Kilani – Canterbury Referees Association
- Jayden Khong – Granville District Football Referees Association
- Josh Watkins – Blacktown City Soccer Referees Branch
- Lilian Hayes – Central Coast Football Referees
- Oliver Leanfore – Canterbury Referees Association
- Oliver Udovicic – Canterbury Referees Association
- Ruby Egan Brown – Football South Coast Referees
- Valentina Malagon Avila – Hills Football Referees
- Wael Arabi – Nepean Referees Group
A Stepping Stone for NSW and Australian Football
The Football NSW Referee Academy plays a pivotal role in developing skilled officials who are crucial to the game’s success at all levels.
By providing intensive training and mentorship, the academy not only ensures the quality of officiating within New South Wales but also contributes to the broader growth of football in Australia.
With its proven track record of producing referees who excel nationally and internationally, the academy underscores the importance of investing in referee development as part of a thriving football ecosystem.
This initiative is vital for maintaining the integrity of the game while inspiring the next generation of referees to pursue excellence.
