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AFC Refereeing STAR Programme empowers match officials in Bhutan
Thimphu: The acclaimed AFC Refereeing STAR programme concluded in Thimphu, Bhutan, on Thursday, marking yet another milestone in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s commitment towards establishing the highest officiating standards on the Continent.
Organised in collaboration with the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF), the programme served as a pre-season preparatory course for match officials, equipping them with enhanced technical knowledge and physical fitness to ensure maximum readiness ahead of the Bhutan Premier League 2025.

Conducted from March 31 to April 3, the four-day programme featured a comprehensive curriculum designed specifically for the BFF, based on observations of referees’ performances in the previous season.
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Led by the Confederation’s experts, the programme saw participants gain insights into the latest amendments to the Laws of the Game while also discussing several aspects of game management, such as controlling the game, identifying and managing fouls, and ensuring player safety and game flow.
 
In the practical sessions, the participants were tested on their position and decision-making skills, which were complemented by extensive fitness assessments, including the Change of Direction Ability (CODA) test, the FIFA Interval Test, and the Repeated Sprint Ability Test, designed to evaluate speed, endurance, and agility.
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Additionally, the participants took part in group activities involving interactive discussions on challenges and tactical fouls based on real-life case studies, handball situations, and other key match incidents.

BFF Head of Referees Department, Ugyen Dorji, said: “The BFF is committed to contributing to the Continent’s quest to produce match officials of world-class standards.

“The programme was a learning experience for all of us, and we will continue to encourage our match officials to remain on this educational trajectory and further enhance their skills.”