Referees attend Development Programme session in Loughborough

Led by FIVB Challenge Referee Nick Heckford, the session introduced and practiced a new feedback approach for 1st and 2nd referees.

Modelled on the FIVB post-match debrief structure, the approach involved the entire officiating team and provided referees with the opportunity to both give and receive constructive peer feedback, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Alongside this, the use of two-way communication – with the aim of enhancing decision making and identifying best practice – was trialled.

The referees also had head shots taken to support Super League promotions.

“It’s always important to keep looking at the way we can improve the consistency and quality refereeing for the Super League, and provide opportunities for training and development for the top volleyball referees in ENG  Volleyball England’s Strategic Manager for Workforce and Talent, Gillian Harrison.

“Bringing in additional tools to make refereeing smoother, such as the two-way communication, is another useful next step and, from initial feedback from those referees who used it, worked well.”