TOUCH Federation of Papua New Guinea (TFPNG) has successfully hosted a two-day referee clinic in Oro province from July 5-6, 2025.
Facilitated by the Popondetta Touch Association (PTA) in partnership with TFPNG, the workshop focused on conducting referee education and certification to support touch footy in the province.
Known as one of the provinces that produces top touch footballers in the country, the clinic will only help in the course.
TFPNG’s referee director Michael Imo and technical director Buddy Mitau was at in Popondetta to run the clinic.
According to the TFPNG technical director Buddy Mitau, the workshop was a success with a total of 33 participants (eight females and 25 males from various touch footy clubs and communities in the province.
“We acknowledge the efforts and hospitality of the PTA, whose local coordination was essential in ensuring the smooth running of the event,” Mitua said.
“The strong turnout and level of engagement confirm that Oro Province is ready to grow its referee base and further strengthen its presence in the national touch football landscape.”
“We look forward to continued support and collaboration in developing grassroots officiating programs across all regions.”
First day of the workshop started with Introductory Level Referees Course. This included (Basic rules and principles of Touch Football, Field positioning, signalling, and whistle techniques, Practical drills and on-field simulated match officiating).
While level one referees Course was facilitated in the second day.
The course includes advanced officiating techniques and game management, Communication and decision-making under pressure, Team refereeing and mechanics, Assessment through practical evaluations and scenario-based learning.
In conclusion the TFPNG received recommendations to improve the clinic and to facilitate ongoing mentorship and appointments to coordinate the work of referee in the province.
