Pasifika Referee Course Empowers Community Through Football in Auckland

AUCKLAND, New Zealand (April 5, 2025) —
A free referee training initiative aimed at Auckland’s Pasifika community took center stage at Manukau Institute of Technology in Ōtara, offering a new path into football for an underrepresented group.

Northern Region Football, in collaboration with New Zealand Football, launched the Pasifika Community Referee Course on April 5 as part of a broader campaign to diversify officiating and foster inclusivity in the game.

Ten participants of Pasifika heritage attended the course, gaining foundational knowledge of refereeing and discovering potential career and leadership pathways within football.

“This course is about more than just refereeing,” said Lindsey Robinson, New Zealand Football’s Referee Development Manager. “It’s about uplifting our Pasifika whānau, recognizing the leadership already thriving in our communities, and opening doors in the game we all love. Refereeing is a powerful way to give back, to represent, and to lead with pride.”

Guest speaker and active community referee Sarge Sharma addressed the group, sharing his personal journey to inspire others.
“I’m here to give back to my community, lead by example, and show that becoming a referee is possible at any age,” said Sharma. “Spaces like this promote inclusivity and access to opportunities that might otherwise be missed. Pasifika people thrive in shared learning environments—they feel safer, more connected, and more willing to express themselves.”

Also attending the course was Fetuaoina Ah-Young, president of Clendon United AFC, who emphasized the importance of representation.
“Anyone can do it,” Ah-Young said. “There’s a pathway here—to have a voice, to stand up and represent Pasifika players and our community.”

Ah-Young also highlighted the value of story-sharing during the course.
“One Fijian referee shared his journey with me, and that was powerful. The more stories we share, the more relatable this opportunity becomes for others in our Pasifika communities.”

The course, held in a supportive and culturally aware environment, marks a pivotal step forward in reflecting the growing diversity of Auckland and Northland’s football landscape.

To explore refereeing or coaching opportunities near you, visit nzflearn.co.nz.