Meet Jake Rhodes, one of our newer members.
At Sheffield RA our main goals are to develop, support, and, mentor members to the best of their abilities. Below, is a summary of how we’ve helped, 16 year old, Jake develop as a match official, following his qualification in 2021. If you’d like to experience similar developmental opportunities and support, PM us, or follow the link on our pinned post to join Sheffield RA!
Jake joined earlier this year after completing his referee course in October 2021. He completed his GCSEs this year and has recently started a BTEC in Sport at Sheffield Utd Community College.
He plays for Handswoth U18s but still manages to find time to referee at the weekends!
Jake heard about the RA meetings through social media and has attended regularly since (thanks to mum’s taxis who takes time out to bring him!). Joining a group like this can be daunting, but members made him welcome from day one and he was soon joining in with the interactive meetings – from the Annual Quiz to Blind Football Training!
He said that joining the Sheffield Referees Association has given him opportunities he would not have had if he had not become a member. He officiates on the Sheffield and Hallam Women and Girls League and County FA Academy fixtures and is enjoying his first experience as an Assistant Referee (or Liner as you get called!) in the County Senior League.
Jake has been appointed a mentor from the RA for the coming season, so he knows he has got someone at the end of a phone for any support or guidance throughout the year.
If you are a referee – experienced or newly qualified, why not join? We offer online guides and support but have face to face meetings which are invaluable and give you the opportunity to share experiences with other referees.
We’d also love to hear how Sheffield RA has helped you! If you’d like to share a refereeing story, or experience, to feature on the next ‘on the spot’ post, contact us to get involved.