GFF, RFA host female introductory referee, coaches’ programme in Lethem

As part of its continued dedication to advancing women in football, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), in collaboration with the Rupununi Football Association (RFA), recently conducted a Female Introductory Referee and Coaches’ Programme in Lethem.
The three-day initiative, which ran from February 20–22, 2026, was aimed at strengthening female participation in football by equipping women in the region with foundational knowledge and practical skills in both refereeing and coaching.

Referees’ Programme
The refereeing component of the programme provided participants with foundational knowledge and practical training in football officiating, with particular emphasis on understanding and applying the Laws of the Game. Sessions combined classroom-based theoretical instruction with practical field exercises, allowing participants to develop confidence and competence in match officiating.
The programme was facilitated by MA technical instructor Natasha Lewis and technical instructor Abdulla Hamid.
A total of 14 participants successfully completed the refereeing component, enhancing the pool of trained female match officials within the Rupununi region.

Coaches’ Programme
The coaching component focused on empowering women through foundational skill-building, confidence development, and professional growth. Participants were introduced to the fundamental principles of football coaching, with emphasis placed on self-awareness, goal setting, and effective communication as essential tools for leadership and athlete development.
The programme also sought to encourage the emergence of female leadership in football and to build a supportive network of aspiring women coaches within the region.
Topics covered during the coaching sessions included: Overview of the Guyana Football Federation; Female in Football – Some Peculiarities and Preparing and Delivering an Effective Coaching Session Plan
The coaching sessions were facilitated by Lyndon France and Rhesa Pompey, with 12 participants completing the programme.
The initiative forms part of the Guyana Football Federation’s ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for women in football across all regions of Guyana.
By providing accessible training in officiating and coaching, the programme aims to increase female representation in key technical roles and support the continued development of the sport at the grassroots level.
The GFF expressed appreciation to the Rupununi Football Association and all facilitators for their collaboration in delivering the programme and supporting the advancement of women’s football in the region.