New Years Message from Association Management and President & 2023 Highlights

Once again the Association has enjoyed another successful year, not only measured in the number of new entrants, prestigious appointments and promotions but by the healthy activity which has taken place throughout the year as outlined in the highlights which have been shared. Below is a message from Association Management and our President wishing in the New Year:

Association Management – Martin Clark (Association Manager) , Mark Doyle (Assistant Association Manager) and George Drummond (Referee Committee Member)

As we come to the end of 2023 it is good to look back before looking forward to hopefully another successful year for the Association.

The year started positively with mid-season promotions to the List of Senior Referees for Lewis Hogarth and Cameron Stirling. Further promotions were also to come the way of George Calder (Category 1), Ryan Lee, Alex Shepherd (Category 1 Development), Steven Wilson (SAR Development), David Gallagher (Category 3 Development), Callum Donald, Richard Kay, Blair McAlpine and Sean Simpson (Category 4 Development) while David Dickson and Mikey Dixon moved to Category 4. Graeme Leslie became the Association’s first permanent AVAR and our President Vikki Muckersie was not only renominated as a FIFA Assistant Referee but also became a mother. Congratulations to all.

Change is a constant in all aspects of life and there were of course some who moved on as Michael Banks, Graham Chambers and David Doig all retired while Ralph Gordon and Gavin Ross joined the Observer ranks where they will bring years of experience and expertise to their new roles.

At the start of the season, we also welcomed George Drummond, who following operational changes made in terms of the responsibilities within the referee committee, saw George appointed as our liaison with the Scottish FA on the Referee Committee, while Calum Murray has moved to act as the liaison for Fife and Stirlingshire Associations after serving our Association with distinction for many years.

It was also though a year which was marked with some sadness as we lost several past Presidents of the Association: Bill Crombie, Alistair Huett, Jack Cambridge and Peter Tinley, as well as the untimely loss of Gary McGregor and other members of the Association. Our thoughts are with their families at this difficult time of the year.

Looking back on 2023 we can though see that the Association continues to flourish. New members were welcomed by way of the two very successful new entrants classes which were expertly led by Danny Graves and Ryan Lee, as well as the Online Course. We also grew our numbers of Futsal Referees through a one-off module as well as increasing the numbers of those who have passed the Advanced Exam.

Our numbers at Training continue to impress and the support and enthusiasm which Jimmy and Lee bring to each session is replicated by the hard work shown by those who attend. If you have not made it along this year or would like to return you would be very welcome; a great new year’s resolution.

The Association does not run itself and it would be remiss not to acknowledge and thank all of those who serve on the Management Committee, the Association is in good hands. In a similar manner we would like to thank the work of the various Teams in the Association for the countless hours spent in support and the refereeing development of everybody.

Success comes in many shapes and forms and I am sure everybody can look back and identify a highlight of the year for them, be it officiating in a cup final or receiving a prestigious appointment as mentioned in the President’s review, or even just taking charge of their first match. Congratulations to you all.

Hard work brings its own rewards and therefore on behalf of Martin, Mark and George we would like to thank all our members for their dedication and the professionalism they have shown throughout the year in representing the Association.

A new year brings new opportunities, a time to refocus and to define new goals. Whatever they are you can be guaranteed of our support to help achieve these and we wish you every success in 2024. Happy New Year

Vikki Allan, President

Each year it is an absolute pleasure to see all of the highlights that the Association share, I am sure personally for each of our members you will also have your own highlights to be proud of. Following Martin, Mark and George’s message I am also proud of how strong a position the Association is in at the end of 2023 and I can’t wait to see what the coming year brings. It has been great to meet so many of you at instruction classes, training and Association meetings this year, it is so important for each of us to have a support network in our fellow colleagues.

Of course it is with great sadness the friends we have lost during the year, past presidents, friends and colleagues. My thoughts are with their families at this time of year.

I would like to thank our Management Committee, Association Management, Development/Instruction/Social teams and our Trainers for everything that they do for the Association as we wouldn’t be where we are without them all.

To the membership I thank you for your continued professionalism on and off the pitch when representing the Association, along with your positive attitudes which makes my role so much easier. The highlights today showcase just how fantastic a group of officials we have at the association from grassroots to the Premiership. I can’t wait to see what the Association Membership will achieve in 2024.

With that I would like to wish you all and your families a very happy new year and hope whatever your goals are for 2024 the Association will be there to support you.

Highlights Summary from Social Media

Its that time of year again where we look back at 2023 and round up our highlights! Keep an eye on our socials today and let us know your officiating highlights.

We held two referee introduction classes this year with 46 new referees into the Association, this also includes 11 new Futsal officials! These classes are led by our coaching team which is headed up by Daniel Graves. Would you like to give refereeing a go? Our next class begins in February, for more info please click here

Promotions –
Throughout the season we had a number of promotions, congratulations again to all in the below picture very well deserved. These promotions include all categories throughout the pyramid from Category Four up to One.
Click here

Cup Final Appointments –
Throughout the season we had a number of officials appointed to Cup Finals, congratulations again!

Craig Ferguson – SPFL Trust Trophy Final as AR 2 & Scottish League Cup Final as Additional Assistant Referee
Mark Harris – Scottish FA Youth Cup Final as 4th Official
Iain Sneddon (Referee) & Alex Shepherd (4th Official) – Glasgow Cup Final
Ryan Lee (Referee), Cameron Stirling (AR1) and Lewis Hogarth (4th Official) – King Cup final
Gavin Duncan – Women’s Scottish Cup Final as VAR
George Calder (Referee) and Steven Wilson (AR2) – Junior Cup Final
Tommi Kerr (4th Official) East of Scotland League Cup Final
Dominic Falconer and Cameron Conner – Scottish Futsal League Edinburgh League Cup Final

The Scottish FA each season recognise contributions to Refereeing and invite those recipients to a celebration at the Scottish Cup Final. This year our trainer Jimmy Ramage was recognised for his contribution which spans over 32 years! Congratulations again Jimmy, very deserved!

This new season also saw us launch our Monthly Laws of the Games quiz. This has been shared far and wide across Scotland and seems to have gone down extremely well with over 300 people completing each month.

While we take our roles extremely seriously on the pitch, it isn’t all work and no fun! We had a number of socials this year including our post AGM drinks, Bowling, Annual Awards dinner and our Annual Charity quiz. Our Annual quiz this year raised over £700 for our Charity Partner Marie Curie.

At our Annual Awards dinner the following awards were handed out along with the awards recognising National Cup Finals. We also recognised the retirements of Michael Banks, Graham Chambers and David Doig.

      Winners –
Frank Campbell AR of the Year – Andrew Simmonds
Bill Mullen Trainers Award – George Calder
Presidents Award – Daniel Graves
Refs Ref of the Year- Ryan Lee
Bill Tait – Lewis Hogarth
George Smith Development Award – Cameron Stirling

Our member Isla Buchanan also represented the Scottish FA at the Euro 2028 bid. Below is a short interview she gave at the event.

In December we also saw Iain Snedden officiate his first Premiership match in the middle, a very deserved appointment!

EDRA End of Season Updates – Retirements, Promotions and Observer Appointments

As the 2022/23 Season is coming to a close please see the below updates from Association Manager Martin Clark:

Retirements

As an Association Manager, it is always a very sad occasion when you lose one official through retirement at the end of a season who has officiated at the top level but losing three in the one season is both unprecedented in my time and extremely sad given the amount of experience amassed between all three officials.

Notwithstanding, it is only correct that we reflect on the achievements these three ambassadors for the EDRA enjoyed whilst representing this association. 



Graham Chambers

Graham enjoyed three seasons aa a Cat3 referee before going on to spend a similar time as a Cat 2
He then dropped back to Cat 3 status before being appointed to the newly formed category of SAR where he spent 14 seasons. During his time as an SAR, Graham officiated at games at the highest level on a domestic basis the highlights of which are as listed below.

The 2011 League Cup Final – Celtic v Rangers.

The 2014 Scottish Cup Final – Dundee United v St. Johnstone (Graham was AR1, Michael Banks was AR2).

5 Old Firm Games.

5 Edinburgh Derbies.

1 Dundee Derby.

Graham was appointed to the FIFA list of SARs where he spent a total of seven seasons.
During his time on the FIFA list, he managed to squeeze in an unbelievable 86 European appointments consisting of 74 games as an SAR and 12 as a 4th Official.

Although the appointments at FIFA level involved fixtures in The Champions League or Europa League, the highlight of his career was undoubtedly as 4th Official on 2015 European Super Cup Final – Barcelona v Sevilla.

Since stepping back from officiating on the field of play Graham has been involved as an AVAR during this the inaugural season for VAR.

It is unfortunate that Graham found it difficult from a logistical and employment perspective to attend our training sessions since the Edinburgh and West Lothian training centres were combined to train at our current location at the Oriam. However, this had no negative impact on his fitness level passing all requisite fitness tests with flying colours.

I am confident that Graham’s name will figure high in the history of this association, and a hard act for anyone to emulate, well certainly in my time.

Michael Banks

Michael hung up his flag for the last time after officiating as AR2 on the final day of the season at the St Mirren v Rangers game on the 27th of May where he was joined by his family to celebrate the conclusion of an excellent career. It was also pleasing that an excellent performance produced (Not that this was of any great surprise).

It is worth noting that Michael commenced his career as an SAR in season 2012 and during the 11 seasons has officiated in games at the highest level on a domestic basis the most prestigious of these being as listed below.
Due cognisance should be taken of the fact that it was not normal practice to appoint an official outside the FIFA category to a major domestic final. 

2011 Challenge Cup Final – Queen of the South v Ross County

2014 Scottish Cup Final – Dundee United v St Johnstone

2016 League Cup Final – Aberdeen v Celtic

Michael also officiated in 1 Dundee Derby

Michael has also been, until his recent retirement, a part of an excellent double act where along with Gavin Ross they were the Coaching Team presenting (with great humour) the coaching clips at our association meetings. Although both have now stepped back from this role, the positive news is that Michael will continue in a pivotal role involved in the development team where he will be instrumental in guiding our new referees. Michael certainly has all the experience to pass on to those looking to achieve a similar pathway and ultimate career and success that he has enjoyed.

David Doig

David achieved SAR in 2018. His final game took place on the 20th May as AR2 on the Celtic v St Mirren fixture, a venue and fixture David was extremely pleased to bow out on.

However, it is worth noting that during the six seasons as an SAR he officiated at the following games,

2016 Junior Cup Final – Beith v Pollok

2016 South Region Challenge Cup Final – Edinburgh City v Whitehill Welfare

2019 Challenge Cup Final – Connah’s Quay v Ross County

David also enjoyed 25 European Appointments – (Europa League, UEFA Youth League, U19 Tournaments etc.).


Mandatory Credit: Photo by Stuart Wallace/BPI/Shutterstock (10558178cj)

As intimated at the outset, it is extremely sad to see all three officials retire at the one time, they have all enjoyed an excellent career and I wish them well and hope that in some way they will remain in contact with this association and will always be welcome at any association training, meetings, or social functions.

Please note the Management Committee plans to mark these retirements at the upcoming Annual Dinner and details will be announced in the coming weeks

Promotions


George Calder

I was delighted when the referee committee accepted our nomination and promoted George to Category 1 from the season ahead.

George is extremely fit, has performed well and now can officiate at a higher level.

I know I speak for everyone involved in offering our congratulations and wishing George further success in the seasons ahead.

George was also appointed along with Steven Wilson to the televised Scottish Junior Cup Final between Cumnock and Rutherglen Glencairn played on Friday 2nd June where both did well in representing the association in such a prestigious fixture.

Well done, George and Steven.

Ryan Lee

Ryan has been promoted to Category 1D and again it was extremely pleasing to see him being given the opportunity to officiate at a higher level.

Ryan is a fit individual whose talent I had the opportunity to see at first hand some seasons ago when he was seeking advancement to the senior list.

I am confident that with further experience gained in the season ahead, Ryan will have all the important characteristics and make the final step to Category 1.

I know my thoughts are shared with many who have been lucky enough to have watched Ryan mature in terms of his refereeing over the previous seasons.

David Gallacher

David has been promoted to Category 3D and I am confident that with careful guidance and positive performances, his upward trend will not stop at this level.

David Dickson and Michael Dixon were also promoted to Category 4 at the recent grading meeting.

New Observers

It was pleasing to hear that both Gavin Ross and Ralph Gordon have been appointed as Observer and AR Observer respectfully for the season ahead. Both Gavin and Ralph have amassed some excellent experience over their years on the senior list and are now well placed to assist and coach young referees going forward.

New Years Message from Association Management and President & 2022 Highlights

Once again the Association has enjoyed another successful year, not only measured in the number of new entrants, prestigious appointments and promotions but by the healthy activity which has taken place throughout the year as outlined in the highlights which have been shared over the last few days. Below is a message from Association Management and our President wishing in the New Year:

Association Management – Martin Clark (Association Manager) , Mark Doyle (Assistant Association Manager) and Calum Murray (Referee Committee Member)

What a difference a year makes. A year which started with the Pandemic still impacting us has ended with VAR having been introduced into top flight Scottish football which a number of our members contributed to the roll out of, as well as operating under it and as VAR and AVARS.

This year has seen a return to normal refereeing activities and although some of the old challenges remain the same, it has been a real bonus for us to get back to full training as well as Association meetings, development activities, Instruction classes all being held in person, along with the return of our annual awards dinner.

What has not changed is the professionalism and enthusiasm that all of you have approached your matches and represented our Association at all levels from Grassroots football to Premiership and International fixtures in both the male and women’s game. It is a credit to our members that we have come through such a challenging previous two seasons with the Association in such a strong position. Congratulations to everybody who received promotions and high profile appointments throughout the year and many thanks to those who have now decided to retire for their service to refereeing over the years.

As an Association we are fortunate to have a number of committed and dedicated members who deliver our New Entrants classes, Development Academies and well as our Fitness Trainers Jimmy and Lee Ramage, not to mention our Referee Coaches who form our Development Team. These activities don’t just happen and are at the heart of what we do for the development of referees at all levels, so my thanks especially to them as well as to our Management Committee who have been led superbly by Vikki our President having taken over from George Calder whose term ended in April.

New Year often is accompanied by resolutions and new goals. Whatever these may be I hope that you can achieve them and you can be assured that Martin, Mark and Calum are here to support you as far as we can.

Therefore on behalf of the Management Team I would like to wish you and your families a Happy and prosperous New Year.

Vikki Allan, President

Having worked with the Management Committee and Association Management on writing this years highlights I am extremely proud of what we have achieved as an Association. Following what was an extremely difficult previous two seasons, and 2022 wasn’t without it’s difficulties as well it is fantastic to see the Association in such a strong position. It was even better to return to full face to face sessions and also group social gatherings following the pandemic. This allowed further coaching and a chance for our members to also let their hair down (which is very deserved!!). I would like to thank our Management Committee, Association Management, Development/Instruction teams, our Trainers… the list is endless for everything that they do for the Association we wouldn’t be where we are without them. Also to George Calder who finished his tenure as President in April, he led the Association through an extremely turbulent period and I am extremely grateful for the position he left the Association in.

To the membership I thank you for your tenacious attitude and professionalism. The highlights the last few days showcase just how fantastic a group of officials we have at the association from grassroots to the Premiership. I can’t wait to see what the Association Membership will achieve in 2023.

With that I would like to wish you all and your families a very happy new year and hope whatever your goals are for 2023 the Association will be there to support you.

Highlights Summary from Social Media

Its that time of year again where we celebrate the Associations and its members achievements/highlights from throughout 2022, of which there have been many! Over the course of the next two days we will share these. What has been your EDRA/refereeing highlight of 2022?

-January saw the Winter Promotions for the season. Below were the members who received promotion, congratulations again! Daniel Graves Cat 1D, Cameron Stirling Cat 3D, Jack Leslie Cat 3D, Konrad Spalony Cat 3D, Lewis Hogarth Cat 3D & Vikki Allan Cat 3D

-In March we celebrated International Womens Day. We are very lucky at EDRA to have a number of female officials. We shared the below video with our female officials and their highlights so far in their careers!

-In March the Scottish FA launched the new online referee training course. This allows candidates the opportunity to become a referee through an online course. This has been really successful and we have seen a number of new officials through this route. Below was the video shared by the SFA at the time featuring some of our members.

-It was great to return to in person meetings in which we held our AGM in April. It was also great to have a beverage or two post this and see members face to face again!

-In May Inverkeithing Hillfield Swifts girls team shared a post on Facebook as they attended one of their Mens game. One of our officials Anna was running the line who inspired the girls to keep participating in football! We have reshared the post below. Hopefully one day we might see them in the middle or running the line.

-Following The Swifts Facebook post, Alex who was the referee at the game sent Izzy a set of cards and a whistle! Lovely gesture from Alex and hopefully encouraging a future generation of referees.

-Cup Final fever hit in May with the SYFA 19s InspireSport Scottish cup Final being officiated by four EDRA officials.
Kilwinning Rangers v St Cadocs
Referee – Ian Baillie
ARs – Calum Bryson & Robert White
Fourth – Norrie Brown

-As we approached the Summer break it was time for end of season promotions! Below was the list, congratulations again: Iain Snedden Cat 1, Alex Shepherd Cat 1D, Tommi Kerr Cat 3, Will Pare Cat 3, Sean Duff Cat 3, Rhys Struthers Cat 3, Andrew Brown Cat 3D

-One of our referees Luke Pierce was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder in September 2021. In June Luke featured in a special exhibition telling the stories of himself and others who have been disposed with the condition and the effect it has had on their lives. Check out the post below from June for more info and pictures of Luke at the opening event.

-This year we held two new entrants classes in February and August. It fantastic to see so many new members. This year we had 50 pass the class and join the refereeing family.
Now would be a great time to advertise our upcoming class in February! Beginning 5th Feb for 5 Sundays. If you are interested register your interest here – https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish-fa/referees/referee-associations/edinburgh/

-In September we hosted our Annual Awards Dinner, this was the first time since the pandemic we have been able to host this event so was great to see so many members and their families/friends. The next few posts will be dedicated to the evening and the awards recipients.

Donation to Blood Bikes + Red and Yellow card quiz
During the evening we played the red and yellow card quiz with half of the proceeds going to Blood Bikes Scotland. Steven King won on the evening and donated his winnings back to the charity, big thank you to him!
We then presented Blood Bikes Scotland with a cheque of proceeds from the quiz and our 24 hour run last year which the total was an amazing £2,955. The cheque was presented by our late Honorary President George Smith’s Family.

Cup Final Awards
We are very lucky as an association to have had a number of officials on Cup Finals since our last dinner in 2019. These were presented to all of the recipients on the evening, congratulations to all.

Presentation to Ralph and Simon
This year saw two stalwarts of the game retire from the Senior list. Ralph Gordon and Simon MacLean were both presented with a token from the Association to mark their retirement this was presented by Crawford Allan. In a lovely moment both Ralph and Simon finished their time on the Senior List appointed to the same match, Whitburn v Stoneyburn in East of Scotland. There may be more to that story but we will let Simon off!

Frank Campbell Memorial Award – Niamh Westwood
The Frank Campbell Memorial Award is presented to an Assistant Referee within the Lowland League/East of Scotland who has excelled. This year the recipient was Niamh Westwood and was presented by Assistant Association Manager Mark Doyle.

Bill Mullan Trainers Award – Vikki Allan
The Bill Mullan Trainers Award is presented to someone who has worked hard on their fitness in the last season. This was presented to Vikki Allan by our Trainer Jimmy Ramage

Referee’ Referee of the Year Award – Alex Shepherd
Referee’s Referee of the Year Award is voted for by the membership. A shortlist is created in the lead up to the event and then voted for on the evening. This years recipient was Alex Shepherd and was presented by Referee Committee Member Calum Murray.

George Smith Development Award – Lewis Hogarth
The next award was renamed this year as the George Smith Development Award. Mr Smith sadly passed away in 2019 and was our Honorary President after an incredible Refereeing Career. He was always passionate about developing future officials and seeing them achieve. After discussion with his wife Pamela we felt this was a fitting award in his memory. This years recipient was Lewis Hogarth and presented by Pamela Smith.

Presidents Award – Ralph Gordon
The Presidents award is normally chosen by our current President, as our former President George Calder unfortunately never had a dinner due to the Pandemic he chose this years recipient. The award goes to someone who goes above and beyond for the Association and has dedicated a lot of time to the development of officials, this years recipient was Ralph Gordon and presented by George Calder.

Bill Tait Award – Brent Falconer
The final award of the evening was the Bill Tait award. This is presented to an official within the East of Scotland/Lowland League who has excelled. This years recipient was Brent Falconer and was presented by Association Manager Martin Clark and Association Assistant Manager Mark Doyle.

-A number of officials hung up their whistle this year either through retirement or stepping off the Senior List. We would like recognise and thank them for their service to Scottish Football, some of who have served this association with pride and distinction for a considerable number of years :
David Black, Alan Downie, Graham Finlay, Jonathan Gall, Alistair Marquis, Malcolm Stewart, Gavin Thomson, Alan Hogg, Andrew Waddell, Robert Marr, Steven Rowan, Michael Addy, Jack Brown, Michael Egan, Greig Haynes, Dean Kay, Joe Queen and Ewan Young

-Our member Rhys Struthers is currently one of the Youth Ambassadors of Change at the Scottish FA. This programme is looking to give young people across Scotland a voice at the Scottish FA and the future of football. Rhys attended a training day in November with the other Ambassadors and is a great ambassador for the Association.
In November the Scottish FA shared our member Mariia’s story. Mariia is from Ukraine and moved to Scotland due to the current war in Ukraine. Football has become a place of solace for Mariia and the EDRA are glad to play a small part in this.

-In November it was girls Youth Cup Semi Cup Final time with both Isla and Mariia featuring in the match between Hibernian and Hamilton!

-Following her Semi Cup Final appointment it was a fantastic end to the year for Isla as she won Champion Official of the year at the Scottish Women in Sport awards and she had some strong competition including the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final Referee. Congratulations again Isla!

-We are extremely lucky to have had a number of officials appointed to International Matches this year. Congratulations to Craig Ferguson, Peter Stuart, Iain Snedden and Vikki Allan a list of all their appointments is in the comments below.

Craig Ferguson – Assistant Referee
Norway vs Croatia U21s
UEFA Euro U21 qualification group stage

AZ Alkmaar vs FK Crvena Zvezda
Youth League Domestic Path

U19 qualifying round mini tournament
France vs Kazakhstan
France vs Iceland
Kazakhstan vs Iceland

Peter Stuart –
UEFA Youth League
Hibernian v Molde FK – 4th official
Celtic v Shakhtar – 4th Official

Iain Snedden –
UEFA Youth League
Hibernian v Nantes – 4th official

Vikki Allan – Assistant Referee
Croatia v Iceland – Womens World Cup Qualifier
France v Finaland – Womens U17 European Championships
Germany v Netherlands – Womens U17 European Championships
Spain v France – Womens U17 European Championships
Albania v Poland – Womens World Cup Qualifier
Rosengard v Barcelona – Champions League Group Stage
Recently confirmed for FIFA list 2023

-Another Cup final this time the CAS U16s Final which was Rangers v Celtic. Stuart Robertson was appointed as AR2 to this and it was streamed live on YouTube.

-It was a historic year in Scotland as VAR went live in October. EDRA played a large part in the training of the VAR officials by helping with training sessions which were simulation sessions of events which could occur during a match. Thank you again to all those who volunteered!

-In December we held out annual quiz, which was hosted by George Mathison. This year saw 17 teams battle it out for first place! There can only be one winner and congratulations to Team Stanton. Below is a picture 13 years apart can’t even tell the difference! This year we raised funds for Butterfly Trust and we will present them with a cheque in the New Year.

SFAR Edinburgh and District Annual Dinner

We’re delighted to announce that our annual awards dinner dance will take place on the 10th September at the Village Hotel in Edinburgh.

This is the highlight of the EDRA social calendar, where we can gather as an association with friends and family to celebrate what has been a terrific season for our members. We’ve been fortunate enough to have members officiate in some of the biggest matches in the footballing calendar this year, so there is sure to be lots to celebrate on the night!

Tickets are priced at £40pp, or £60 per ‘couple’*, and include the following:
Glass of fizz on arrival
3 course meal
DJ for dancing into the evening

Buy your tickets now by emailing the Secretary at Secretary.edra@gmail.com
*couple discount applies to member and non member guest or two non member guests.

Shortlist for Referee’s Referee of the Year (the winner will be voted for on the evening) –
Alex Shepherd
Daniel Graves
Peter Stuart
Vikki Allan

New Years Message from Association Management and President & 2021 Highlights

Well we made it… who thought after 2020 that 2021 could hold even more in store for us. What has been another unpredictable year with football having to stop right at the beginning of the year, we did finally see a return to games and also to spectators in attendance. Even through it all it has been another fantastic year for EDRA officials. Below is an end of year message from our Association Management team and also our President George Calder. Throughout today we have been sharing our 2021 highlights across social media, however they have also been rounded up together at the bottom of this post. Wishing our members and their families a healthy, happy and safe 2022.

George Calder, President
With 2021 coming to an end, it’s certainly been a year to remember. I want to extend my thanks to all members for your continued efforts and contribution to the association throughout the year. I sincerely hope you and your families have a fantastic Hogmanay and a very prosperous 2022.

Martin Clark & Mark Doyle, Association Manager/Assistant Association Manager
A whirlwind year has passed with once again the pandemic occupying our minds. A virtual shutdown at the start of the year eventually saw the majority of us returning to training and referee activities, lets hope that despite the ever increasing threat of omicron that the advances made in vaccine protection and testing will allow us to
continue at the start of the year.

Despite the challenges the Association finds itself in good health. The activity of the Referee Instruction Team, superbly led by Danny Graves has seen not only our numbers increase but the syllabus streamlined and the course more interactive than ever.

Our Development Team have also returned to support our development referees at all levels. Their guidance and experience I am sure has been gratefully received and certainly the feedback on our development referees performances is extremely promising for the years to come. Next year we shall have more practical sessions and thanks to Michael Banks for his support and enthusiasm that he brought to planning these events.

Training is a key activity for the association and I would encourage anybody who has not attended this year to please set this as a new year’s resolution. You will be warmly welcomed along to the ORIAM no matter what stage you are at in your referee career. It therefore is only right to say a huge thanks to Jimmy and Lee who lead us week in week out as well to Olma for her support as well. It would also be remiss not to say thank you to Nicole Palmer who after a number of years as the Association’s physio stepped down from her role.

In regards to meetings unfortunately these have remained online through the Zoom functionality, we do hope to return to in person meetings in 2022 but will be led by government/ORIAM guidance on numbers. If you are yet to attend one of our meetings can we encourage you to attend, the coaching slot which is the main part of these meetings is invaluable for all officials development.

I would like to thank the Management Committee for all of their work and support throughout the year under the leadership of George and Vikki our President and Vice President who have guided us in the most challenging of circumstances.

The Association is however only as strong as its members and therefore it is to each and every one of you that I would like to thank, not only for your perseverance throughout the pandemic but the professionalism and dedication that you have shown since the return to football many of whom who returned to refereeing after a protracted period of time. The shouts may be the same but without you football at all levels in our area simply could not take place.

I therefore wish you all the best for the year ahead and as the games come thick and fast as the season progresses I hope that the goals, ambitions and targets you set will be realised

Happy New Year

2021 Highlights Roundup:
An hour with George – 355km in 24 hours and £2500 for Blood Bikes Scotland
A 24 hour challenge created by Calum Doyle started at 4pm on 15th June which is when former Honorary President George Smith’s World Cup match at Italia 90 began! This was in memory of our Honorary President and raised over £2500 for Blood Bikes Scotland with members cover 355km in 24 hours!

Movember
In November some of our Development Referees took part in Movember. While there was definitely some criminal looking moustaches, what they raised for charity definitely wasn’t! Well done to all who raised a fantastic £400!

Annual Quiz
It was great to see our annual quiz return in 2021 after COVID obviously stopped this in 2020. It was an amazing turnout as always, congratulations to Team Duncan who won on the night. We will confirm the final amount raised in early 2022 as we plan to present Scotlands Children’s Charity with the cheque.

Gavin Ross Retirement
Gavin Ross who had been on the Senior List since 2008 and Cat 1 since 2014 retired at the end of the 20/21 season. In October we presented Gavin with a token from the Association to mark his retirement. We thank Gavin for his service while on the list, however look forward to continuing to work with him through coaching our development officials.

Calum Murray Observer
In 2021 Calum Murray was appointed as an UEFA Observer. He received his first of many appointments we are sure in October to an U19 tournament in Czech Republic.

International Appointments – Gavin Duncan, David Doig & Vikki Allan
We are very fortunate that three of our officials received international appointments over the course of 2021! These were at European Conference League, UEFA U21, Women’s Champions League and Women’s World Cup Qualifiers. Congratulations to Gavin Duncan, David Doig and Vikki Allan again.

UEFA CORE
UEFA CORE is a programme where potential European international referees are given early experience and training at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon. We are very excited to confirm that Craig Ferguson has been selected as an AR candidate for next years cohort. We wish Craig the best of luck during this course.

Return of Futsal in September after COVID stopped in March 2020
After what we are all aware happened in 2020, we finally saw the return of Futsal in September 2021 after having to stop in March 2020. It was great to see our Futsal Officials return to action! Did you know that any qualified SFA Referee can take part in a short course which would add a Futsal Qualification to your records? If you are interested get in touch and we will look to run a conversion course in 2021.

Two classes on Zoom
This year we had two fantastic Referee Classes which were very well attended. The first was back in February over Zoom and the second in August which was attended in person as restrictions eased. We had an amazing 50 new referees pass the course and can’t wait to see where their refereeing journey takes them. Our next class will begin on 6th February, should you be interested please see the following link to register interest – https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish-fa/referees/referee-associations/edinburgh/

Regional Training Days EDRA members attended
In May and November the Scottish FA held their Regional Training Days via Zoom. It was great to see so many EDRA members in attendance in which we had 105 online across the two sessions.

Lockdown Training Challenges from Jimmy
As we went into another lockdown in 2021, training obviously had to go back online. Our trainer Jimmy and President George Calder created online challenges for our members to keep fit over the lockdown. It was great for members to send in some clips and share these across our channels!

Observer Appointments at League Cup Semi Final and Final
For the 20/21 League Cup we were very fortunate to have Mark Doyle appointed as AR Observer to the Semi Final and Stewart Shearer as AR Observer in the Final.

Promotions
We were delighted to have had a number of promotions during 2021, well done to all below:
Stewart Luke-Cat1
George Calder & Iain Snedden-Cat 1D
Daniel Graves & Ryan Lee  – Cat 2
Mikey Dixon, Abdul Ezz, Lewis Hogarth, Steven King, Jack Leslie, Ewan Pow and Andrew Simmonds – Cat 4D

Number of Sub/Stoppages 21/22 (updated 31/05/22)

Latest file from 21/05/22, please always check on extranet for latest file under Competitions rules/Substitutions

The Referee Operations Department have created the attached table showing the current position (21/05/22) in relation to both the number of substitutes / stoppages allowed for “normal” substitutes and also a list of which competitions are using the Concussion substitutes in 2021-2022. We will try to keep this up to date in line but please always refer to the extranet prior to matches to confirm this is still the up to date table.

With regard to Concussion substitutes please ensure you fully understand the process and the reporting mechanisms in place for the extranet (a drop down option should be available when reporting subs – normal or concussion). Only choose “Concussion” for the player that actually was concussed – all other subs are “normal”.

Full information on the IFAB process and the process to follow during a match can be found in the following link to the IFAB (Protocol B) – note NO return substitutes are allowed under our protocol:

https://www.theifab.com/laws/latest/concussion-substitutes/

Substitutes by Competition 2021-2022 @ 21 May 221

A Message from Martin Clark – Nicole Palmer

Message from Martin

It was with regret that our physiotherapist (Nicole Palmer) decided to retire from attending our weekly training sessions. However, I think it only appropriate to officially record my appreciation for the professional guidance and assistance she has afforded to a number of our members over the years she has been with us.

Nicole will undoubtedly be missed by us, albeit it is comforting to know that she is to remain working with the referee department and attending various training events and fitness tests. Consequently, she will still come into contact with those on the senior list.

Notwithstanding, I am confident the members will join me in wishing Nicole continued success, both in her personal life and professional career going forward.

Martin
Association Manager

An Hour with George…

An hour with George…

Sadly in 2019 our first and only Honorary Life President George Smith passed away. George had an unprecedented career which spanned over a remarkable 58 years where he served both as a referee and later as a Referee Observer.

It was the intention of the management committee to raise money at our Annual Dinner in 2020 for Blood bike Scotland which was a charity close to George and his family, unfortunately due to COVID the dinner was postponed. We would still like to raise money for this charity and therefore would like to encourage members to take part in “An Hour with George”.

As an Association we wanted to do a 24 hour charity event, which we would ask each participant to do an hour of running, walking or cycling at a designated time slot (these could be early in the early hours of the morning).

This will start on Tuesday 15th June at 16.00 which is exactly 31 years to the date and time of George’s World Cup Match at Italia 90 between Austria vs Czechoslovakia. with the aim to finish on Wednesday 16th.

If you would like to take part please email Calum Doyle or send us a message through our Facebook/Twitter with your email address.

If you would like to support by donating please see following link – www.justgiving.com/fundraising/edra

New Years Message from Association Management and President

2020 a year which none of us could have predicted, it has been tough within the game and especially on our personal lives. At times many of us have felt deflated, however there were still positives to take away as an Association. Below Association Management and our President have written some words on this unprecedented year:

George Calder, EDRA President
Dear members

It goes without saying that it was been a somewhat indifferent year for everyone. It will no doubt have effected some more than others on both a personal and professional level, however it’s difficult to comprehend a pandemic that would have affected the footballing family the way this has. That said, there is a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel with a vaccination in circulation and the hope that football, with fans will return at all levels sooner rather than later.

As an association, we have endeavoured to keep everyone engaged and updated the best we could. Massive challenges have been faced and that was just with getting to grips with technology, which like most was certainly new ground for me and probably the majority of others. We have managed to adapt and overcome, and undoubtedly will benefit going forward to tap into that wider audience.

Despite the difficult year, there has been a stand out achievement with the appointment of Mr Graeme Leslie to the Scottish Cup final. A fantastic achievement and one which will remain in the memories of Graeme and his family for years to come, well done.

Personally I would like to wish all members and your families a prosperous 2021

Please stay safe and have a fabulous Hogmanay.

Kind regards

George Calder
EDRA President

Martin Clark, Mark Doyle & Calum Murray
Association Manager, Assistant Association Manager and Referee Committee Representative

As we reach the end of a calendar year, It has been the norm to make comment regarding the highlights achieved during the 12 months we are about to leave behind.

Prior to doing so, we are confident you will agree that it’s been a period we won’t forget and one we will all be delighted to see behind us.

However, even when faced with adversity endured, it is said one should look for the positives that have occurred to assist with our resilience and help drive us forward.

During the year much of our activity went online be it hosting Association Meetings, the New Entrants Referee class, holding zoom fitness sessions in Jimmy Ramage’s back garden to the amazing turnout at the two Category- Regional Training Days for our category 4-7 referees which saw a record attendance from the Association

With that in mind, it is worth noting that a number of officials received promotion in May, indeed one of the most successful years for the EDRA in that regard, and certainly under my tenure as Association Manager.

A number of our referees were accepted on the SCORE programme, thus continuing the pattern of success set by their EDRA colleagues in previous seasons.

Vikki Allan retained her position on the FIFA list, aptly demonstrating that even if times are difficult, hard work can bring rewards. Vikki has also made the first step towards achieving her goal in terms of operating at a similar level on the domestic scene by securing promotion to Cat4D.

It would be remiss of us if we did not make special mention of Graeme Leslie, who was appointed as one of the SAR’s to the 2019/20 Scottish Cup Final, during which he performed exceptionally well and assisted in maintaining, not only his high personal standard but also that of the reputation of this Association.
Thank you Graeme

We wish all members continued success and wish them and their respective loved ones a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2021.

Martin Clark, Mark Doyle and Calum Murray
Association Manager, Assistant Association Manager and Referee Committee Representative

Thank you to all our members for your patience and professionalism this year, while it may not have been the year we all expected hopefully there will be more football next year and potentially some normality. Happy New Year to our members and your families we wish you a happy, healthy and safe 2021.