AIFF starts online tutorial classes for referees, aims to keep them fit during lockdown

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has started online tutorial classes for referees across the country to keep them "on their toes" during the lockdown for the COVID-19 pandemic.

A total of 60 referees from categories 3 and 4 have been divided into two batches of 30 participants each and are undergoing online classes for over two hours thrice a day.

While Suresh Srinivasan and Bhaskar are coaching Batch A, Antony D'Costa and Rizwan ul Haq are the instructors for Batch B.

All of them are ex-FIFA referees. In addition, 50 observers and instructors are also part of the tutorial classes as invitees.

AIFF Director of Referees Ravishankar stated: "As outdoor activities have been shut for coronavirus pandemic we had to come up with some plan for the referees. The courses are part of the ongoing process to improve them, and there cannot be any stop to further development."
"It is utmost necessary to stay active and cover the basics during these difficult days. Indoor fitness regime has also been shared with the referees so they stay in shape once the season kicks off again."