PNGFA Strengthens Futsal Refereeing Through FIFA MA Referees Course

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has successfully concluded the five-day FIFA Member Association (MA) Futsal Referees Course, reinforcing its commitment to developing qualified match officials and raising the standard of futsal across the country. 

The course, conducted from August 3–7, 2026, at the PNG Football Stadium, was facilitated by FIFA Referee Instructor Neil Poloso of Solomon Islands, with support from PNGFA Referee Development Officer Samol Minan. 

A total of 20 participants completed the course, comprising 16 male and 4 female referees representing a range of Member Associations, including the Port Moresby Soccer Association (PMSA), National Capital District Football Association (NCDFA), Manus Soccer Association, Kimbe Soccer Association, and Koupa Soccer Association. 

Throughout the five-day programme, participants were introduced to the latest FIFA Futsal Laws of the Game and modern refereeing methodologies using FIFA's updated teaching materials. The course combined theoretical learning with practical sessions aimed at equipping referees with the knowledge and confidence to officiate futsal matches to international standards. 

PNGFA General Secretary Ahmjad Tekwie, who officially closed the course today (August 7th), thanked the instructor, facilitators, and participants for their commitment to the program. 

“Thank you to Neil, Samol, and all the participants for your dedication throughout the course. We look forward to seeing you apply what you have learned as the futsal competition gets underway,” Tekwie said. 

FIFA Referee Instructor Neil Poloso commended PNGFA for investing in referee education and highlighted the importance of developing the next generation of futsal officials. 

“I would like to thank PNGFA for hosting this very important course. It is an investment in the next generation of futsal referees, and I wish all the participants every success as they implement what they have learned throughout the season,” Poloso said. 

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Andrew Marampau expressed appreciation to the instructors and PNGFA for delivering the program. 

“We thank the facilitators for sharing their knowledge and empowering us to perform our duties as futsal referees,” Marampau said. 

“This course has given us a better understanding of the laws of the game, and we are now challenged to return to our associations, create awareness, and pass on what we have learned to help grow futsal in Papua New Guinea.” 

The successful completion of the FIFA MA Futsal Referees Course marks another important step in PNGFA's ongoing efforts to strengthen referee development and support the continued growth of futsal throughout Papua New Guinea.