The Chairman of the Northern Regional Football Association (NRFA), Alhaji Abu‑Hassan Rhyzo, has called on football administrators, club officials and supporters to support and encourage the "catch them young" referees rather than intimidate them.
Speaking during a meeting with representatives and management of juvenile clubs and Division Three (3) clubs at the Damongo Astro Turf on Thursday, March 5, 2026, the NRFA Chairman emphasised the importance of nurturing young referees as part of football development in the region.
According to Alhaji Rhyzo, the “catch them young” refereeing initiative is essential for building a strong future for football officiating in Ghana and beyond. However, he expressed concern over the treatment some young referees receive during matches.
“Let’s encourage the "catch them young" referees. We must stop intimidating them and rather support them,” he said. “They may make mistakes, but that should not be an opportunity to harass them. Mistakes are part of learning and development.”
The meeting formed part of the association’s efforts to engage grassroots clubs and strengthen football administration across the region.
As part of the visit, the NRFA Chairman donated footballs to clubs that have successfully registered on the FIFA Connect system. The beneficiary clubs included Nanumba Soccer Boys, Ndewura Jakpa Savannah FC, Laribanga Soccer Club and One Way Stars.
Alhaji Rhyzo commended the West Gonja Football Association (WGFA) for its role in promoting football development within the municipality. He encouraged more clubs to complete their registration on the FIFA Connect platform to benefit from similar support and opportunities from the Ghana Football Association.
Source: kashafmonline.com
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