It’s a significant milestone for Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) with eight referees receiving their FIFA accreditation for 2024, in a ceremony held last week.
The group includes two centre referees, three assistant referees, two futsal referees and a beach soccer referee.
Among the list of referees, presented by FIFA, is the country’s first female centre referee, Shama Mamae, who formally received her FIFA accreditation for the first time.
“It’s through perseverance and commitment to reach this far. A journey that I have sacrificed to achieve, and it’s a dream come true. I’ve worked very hard to get that badge because I believe in everything I do and break barriers.
“I thank everyone who has supported and believed in me. My instructors are the ones who guided and assisted me since I was an intern. Now I’m ready to go out there and put on that badge to work with passion.”
During the badges presentation, SIFF Referee Development Officer, Hamilton Siau, confirmed that those eight accredited referees have qualified to officiate FIFA international events.
Siau also affirmed that each referee will be allowed to showcase their badges this year, in accordance with their official categories.
The accreditation for the Solomon Islands referees is a big step in elevating the country’s position in international football officiating. But also opens the doors for those eight individuals to contribute on the global stage.
SOURCE: OFC/PACNEWS
