Jack Simpson Appointed As Referee Development Officer at LRCFA

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jack Simpson as RDO within our Referee Development Team.

The Leicestershire and Rutland County FA (LRCFA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Jack Simpson as Referee Development Officer (RDO) within our Referee Development Team.

Jack, a Level 4 Referee, joins the association as the second full-time member of dedicated refereeing team. Previously, Jack worked as a Sports Coach within the Football Club Community Trust sector. Since beginning his refereeing journey in 2018, he has also completed an undergraduate degree in Football Coaching and Development.

In his new role, Jack will focus heavily on the “Early-Stage Referee Journey,” including recruitment and conversion, while also supporting internal and external County FA appointments, such as LCFC Academy, university, and college fixtures.

Jack Simpson expressed his excitement and passion for the role. He said: "I am very excited and grateful to be involved in this role to ensure we further showcase refereeing as an attractive career choice and provide all our referees with everything they need to learn and develop in their time as a match official in Leicestershire and Rutland.”

Chris Hodson, Referee Development Lead (RDL) at LRCFA, shared his thoughts on Jack’s appointment: “Alongside the remainder of the team, I am absolutely delighted to welcome Jack to his new role. Jack brings with him an extensive amount of experience relating to grassroots football and refereeing, and I have no doubt he will be a success in his new role.

"As we enter our new strategy, it is excellent for the first time to expand our Referee Development Team to two full-time members of staff, doubling down on the support and development we provide our match officials. I am certain you will join me in giving Jack a warm welcome to his new role.”

This marks an exciting new chapter for refereeing in Leicestershire and Rutland. Chris Hodson will continue to oversee the Referee Development Team, leading on progression and retention support as part of the County FA’s comprehensive strategy.