West Riding FA has been selected to take part in The Football Association’s trial of the use of referee bodycams for the 2024/25 season.

The FA launched the bodycam trial in February 2023 across four adult grassroots partner leagues in Middlesbrough, Liverpool, Worcester and Essex. It will now be expanded to an additional four leagues across London, Surrey, Nottinghamshire and West Riding.  

The aim of the trial is to explore whether the use of bodycams improves participant behaviour and respect towards referees in the grassroots game.

The trial will see a number of selected grassroots referees in West Riding wear the equipment whilst officiating adult grassroots football matches. All referees taking part will receive the support, education and training required to use the bodycams effectively in approved fixtures. The footage can also be accepted as evidence in a disciplinary hearing if required.

As part of the trial, The FA will be tracking and evaluating the impact of the bodycams on behaviour across the participating leagues.

Mark Haywood, Referee Development Officer at West Riding FA said: “We are delighted to be involved in such a significant trial. 25 Referees from the Yorkshire Amateur League will take part in the trial (starting on Saturday 24th August), with support given to the referees and the league throughout the season.  The same referees will also use the body cams for any Open Age County Cup games that they are appointed to.

As a County FA, we are always striving to create the best atmosphere possible for people to officiate in and play, and we believe the positive experiences that have been reported so far from other CFAs who have been involved, is huge and we really look forward to joining the IFAB/ FA trial.”

Ross Joyce, FA National Referee Manager said: “The trial of bodycams has been well received by referees across the participating leagues to date, and the early signs are positive with the referees involved feeling more confident, reassured, protected and safer on the pitch.

“We want all of our referees to enjoy officiating in a safe and inclusive environment. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of everyone involved in grassroots football, from clubs and leagues, to players, coaches and parents, to act in a responsible and respectful way towards our referees. Our main message remains, if you love football, help us to protect it.”