Chairman’s Update – 4 November 2020

Dear Friends, members of York RA and all of you connected to Refereeing.


As the Season unfolds, we seem to be heading for a further ‘Footy Lockdown.’

Certainly, the Professional Game has been given the go ahead to continue, albeit in surreal circumstances with crowds not permitted, but what about our local football?

As I write, we all await the decision of government regarding local football and without being too despondent, I fear we will see the temporary postponement of many local games, both Saturday and Sunday (now confirmed)

So, what are we to do in these trying times?

Well, firstly, go along with the decisions of those in power and stay safe by looking after yourself and your families. For those of you active officials, I would encourage you to get out whenever and wherever you can to maintain a good state of fitness in readiness for the resumption, when safe to do so of course.

Our mental health is vital and keeping fit is one way to combat many issues which could have a negative effect upon our wellbeing.

For me, whilst a dodgy knee prevents my pursuit of an Olympic 10,000m Gold Medal, swimming has been my lifeline. For now, the walking boots are out and ready to roam our wonderful North Yorkshire countryside.

So, we here at York RA have been pondering how best to help and support you whilst in lockdown.

No easy answers other than to let you know that we are here and available to answer your calls and help in any way we can. We have a great wealth of experience on the committee with members willing and able to be at your disposal for help, advice and support. Our contact details can be found on the York RA website, do not hesitate to call. (www.yorkreferee.co.uk)

Nationally, the RA is still active via Zoom meetings and recently has put on some great sessions with high profile Referees and other athletes, Indeed the next Zoom will be a presentation with Howard Webb…..heard of that guy somewhere! Check out the National RA Website for details of this and forthcoming events which, due to demand you need to get in early and book your spot. (https://www.the-ra.org/).

Also, whilst in lockdown, membership of the National & Local RA covers you for Insurance purposes and there is a wide range of benefits to members some of which, particularly if you are furloughed or otherwise in some financial difficulty, may be of benefit.

We have considered further monthly Zoom/Teams Meetings but our scheduled meeting for this Thursday (5th) has unfortunately had to be cancelled.

I would invite you all to write to me personally or any member of the Committee with ideas on what you wish to see via Zoom/Teams sessions over the coming months. What can we do to stimulate and help keep you motivated and prepared to see the season to a conclusion?

Our hope is that once Christmas passes, there may be some return to normality and if so, we can get back to live monthly meetings and prepare for the annual dinner, which incidentally is a great event at the end of May and one which would give us an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all our Match Officials and those who offer support in other ways over the past 2 seasons.

So, get in touch, share your ideas, tell us how we can best support you but, more importantly, look after yourself, look after your families, stay safe and remain optimistic that we will beat this awful virus and although life as we knew it may never be the same, we can adapt and ‘get on with the game.’

I wish you all well.

Alan

Alan Kaye

Chairman

York RA

Alan.kaye3886@btinternet.com

07789 005327

Posted in Announcements, Meetings.