SINGAPORE, 17 FEBRUARY 2019 – Think you are fit enough to play professional football in Singapore? Or do you have what it takes to be a good referee?

Well, you can get an inkling at this year’s Football Fiesta! To be held just outside Jalan Besar Stadium ahead of the 2019 Singapore Premier League (SPL) Community Shield on 23 February, it will feature a return of two activity booths that proved to be a hit last year when they made their debuts.

The Football Association of Singapore’s Football Science and Medicine (FSAM) and Referees’ Departments will have personnel on hand to educate fiesta-goers about the crucial roles in the local football ecosystem, aided by interactive displays to engage the public and let them have a hands-on experience.

Last year, players had to attain a minimum passing mark in the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, which replaced the previous 2.4km run as a fitness gauge. This season, the mark has been raised. A new battery of fitness tests has also been introduced in order to raise standards; while these are used only as data, it will aid in giving a more comprehensive fitness evaluation of the players.

The tests include a Vertical Jump Test, 30m Sprint Test and Arrowhead Agility Test – all of which can be tried out at the Fiesta!

The public will also be able to get deeper insight into the roles played by the men in black. At the Referees’ booth, a television will display information about refereeing and the match officials’ responsibilities, while equipment such as cards and electronic flags will also be on show.

Mr Muhammad Taqi (second from right), who was a main referee at the recent 2019 AFC Asian Cup, will be present to share his expertise, along with last year’s Referee and Assistant Referee of the Year, Mr Nathan Chan and Mr Ronnie Koh respectively. Our women’s FIFA assistant referee, Ms Rohaidah Nasir, will also be in attendance.

As part of a video quiz segment, fans can view video clips from selected matches and predict the referee’s decision from that particular match. Those who are feeling nifty can also try out a movement station, where they have to emulate the movements undertaken by an assistant referee during a match. They also get the opportunity to learn how to make flag signals. Offside, anyone?

What are you waiting for? Clear your day for 23 February! And remember to get your tickets for the Community Shield HERE!

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