By Pa Barrow
The Gambia Amputee Football Association (GAFA) celebrated a milestone this week, wrapping up its inaugural referees training course at the Goal Project in Yundum. The three-day program, designed to equip local officials with the skills to officiate Amputee Football, marked a significant step in advancing the sport’s development in The Gambia.
Amputee Football, distinct from conventional football, features outfield players using crutches and goalkeepers with a single arm. It requires specialized knowledge of its unique rules. The course blended theoretical lessons with hands-on practice, ensuring participants grasped the nuances of officiating this dynamic sport.
Lead instructor Baboucarr Bass emphasized the importance of dedication and rule comprehension. “Amputee Football differs greatly from regular football,” Bass told attendees. “As referees, you must master its specific regulations to enforce the laws effectively and ensure fair play.” His words underscored the course’s goal: to build a cadre of skilled officials capable of upholding the integrity of the game.
At the closing ceremony, GAFA Acting President Baboucarr Jobe hailed the initiative as a cornerstone for the sport’s growth. “Referees are vital to football’s foundation,” Jobe said. Without them, a proper match is impossible. This training strengthens our officiating capacity, paving the way for Amputee Football to flourish locally and beyond.” Jobe reaffirmed GAFA’s commitment to ongoing development, with aspirations for Gambian referees to officiate on international stages.
The course concluded with participants receiving certificates of participation, a proud moment for the trainees and GAFA alike. The initiative enhances the quality of officiating and signals The Gambia’s growing presence in Amputee Football, a sport that celebrates resilience and inclusivity.
As GAFA looks to expand its programs, completing this training sets a promising precedent. With better-prepared referees, the association is poised to elevate the standard of Amputee Football, fostering a brighter future for the sport in The Gambia.
