Northern NSW Football launches Referee Academy

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Image credit: Northern NSW Football

Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) has confirmed the establishment of its first ever Referee Academy.

The two-year academy program aims to help referees build their knowledge, improve their skills, and progress in their careers.

The ultimate goal is to prepare them for opportunities to be selected for major tournaments and events, where they can perform at their very best.

Casey Reibelt, recently appointed as the NNSWF High Performance Referee Coach, will lead the NNSWF Referee Academy as part of her role.

She will oversee the education and development of the selected referees, delivering a combination of online and face-to-face workshops, coaching sessions, and other learning opportunities.

Through this support, referees will gain valuable experience, insights, and practical skills that will help them excel in officiating at higher levels.

All the referees chosen for the program have been identified as having the potential to become top-level match officials in the future.

Recognising their promise, Northern NSW Football is committed to investing in their growth and development.

Alongside the academy, Northern NSW Football has also set up a supplementary group, this group is made up of match officials who have shown strong potential and could be considered for the Referee Academy down the line.

This ensures there’s always a pathway for emerging talent to advance their careers and contribute to the game’s success.

NNSWF General Manager Referee Growth and Development Brad Carlin was excited to make the announcement. 

“The appointment of Casey Reibelt and the selection of the NNSWF Referee Academy and supplementary group are the outcome of considerable investment by the NNSWF Board of Directors and management to demonstrate their goal of developing our referee talent to the highest possible level,” he said in a press release.

“Congratulations to each of the match officials selected for the NNSWF Referee Academy and supplementary group.

“I look forward to watching them grow and develop.”

Here are the referees selected for the 2025-27 NNSWF Referee Academy and the Supplementary Group, showcasing some of the region’s brightest officiating talents.

2025-27 NNSWF Referee Academy

Tess Brumfield – NNSWF
Annie Hook – NNSWF Northern Inland
Harrison Coleman – NNSWF
Flynn Cope – NNSWF and Macquarie Football
Rory Hersee – NNSWF
Callum Hewitt – NNSWF
Caleb Low – NNSWF

2025-27 NNSWF Supplementary Group

Macy Johnson (NNSWF)
Isabella Walshe (NNSWF)
Tyson Baker (NNSWF)
Myles McCormack (NNSWF)

With the launch of the inaugural NNSWF Referee Academy, Northern NSW Football is confident these selected match officials will have every opportunity to reach their full potential and make a lasting impact on the game.

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FV Celebrates Major Facility Upgrades Across Regional Victoria Under RCSIF

Staff Writer
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Football Victoria (FV) is pleased to acknowledge the announcement of four successful projects funded through the Victorian Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund (RCSIF), which will deliver vital upgrades to key football facilities throughout regional Victoria.

The RCSIF is a $60 million initiative from the Allan Labor Government designed to improve community sports infrastructure with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility.

FV is proud to spotlight the following projects that have secured funding:

Thompson Reserve (Inverloch Stars SC)
This upgrade will feature the construction of female-friendly change rooms and enhanced lighting, encouraging greater participation among women and girls.

Dixon Field (Gisborne SC)
Essential lighting improvements will be implemented to expand training and match capacity, supporting the increasing demand for football in the Macedon Ranges.

Victoria Park (Daylesford & Hepburn United SC)
The project will include lighting enhancements to improve venue usability and support broader access for the local football community.

Romsey Recreation Reserve (Macedon Rangers SC)
Funding will go towards planning and design works for new lighting and redevelopment of the main playing surface, laying the groundwork for future infrastructure development.

FV’s Head of Government Relations & Strategy, Lachlan Cole, expressed his excitement about the funding and the positive impact it will bring to regional football communities:

 “These investments are a testament to the importance of football in regional communities.

“Upgraded facilities not only created better playing experiences but also promote social connection in the community and allow for more people to play the game they love.”

Introducing the Nine Ad Manager Association and Community Club of the Year Awards

Staff Writer
Image Credit: Football NSW

Football NSW is proud to introduce the inaugural Football NSW Association of the Year Award, which will be presented at the Football NSW State Dinner on Saturday, October 25th. This prestigious new accolade will be awarded alongside our State Awards, Future Leader Award, Fair Play Award, and the esteemed George Churchward Medal.

Proudly sponsored by Nine Ad Manager, the Association of the Year Award recognises a Football NSW Association that has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to the growth and development of football both within its region and across the state.

The winning Association will be one that actively empowers its clubs to enrich the football experience for players, coaches, referees, and volunteers. It will also be a strong collaborator—working constructively with Football NSW and peer Associations to safeguard and advance the long-term integrity of the game.

The Nine Ad Manager Association of the Year will have shown exceptional achievement or innovation in enhancing football delivery, across areas such as:

  • Innovative approaches to football delivery
  • Club development and support
  • Volunteer recognition and engagement
  • Development pathways for players, coaches, and referees
  • Strong governance practices
  • Creation of a safe, inclusive, and positive environment
  • Long-term strategic planning for growth and sustainability
  • Community outreach and advocacy
  • Promotion of diversity and inclusion (e.g., women and girls, CALD communities)
  • Collaborative partnerships with councils, schools, sponsors, and community groups

Launching in 2025: Nine Ad Manager Community Club of the Year Award

Also debuting in 2025, the Nine Ad Manager Community Club of the Year Award will celebrate a Community Club affiliated with a Football NSW Association that has shown exceptional leadership in raising the profile of grassroots football.

This award will honour a Club that works closely with its Association to foster growth, excellence, and community impact. The winning Club will have demonstrated innovation and excellence in football delivery across areas such as:

  • Recognition as a Club Changer Club
  • A commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment
  • Volunteer support and appreciation
  • Development of players, coaches, and referees—especially through engagement with Association and State pathway programs
  • Strong governance
  • Fostering a positive club culture
  • Outstanding community advocacy and engagement
  • On-field excellence and achievement

Each Association will be invited to nominate one Community Club within its region for consideration. Nomination forms will be distributed in the coming weeks, and Associations are encouraged to begin gathering information in preparation. Community Clubs interested in being nominated should contact their Association directly.

Award Prizes

The winners of both the Nine Ad Manager Association of the Year and Community Club of the Year will receive a complimentary $2,000 AUD campaign via the Nine Ad Manager Platform. Two runners-up in each category will receive a $1,000 AUD campaign.

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