Photo:  Jack Johnston, a member of the FFT Board, was Tasmania's first and so far only FIFA referee [PlessPix]

The State’s referees will be preparing for the coming season with two major events this weekend involving the nation’s most-qualified referee assessor, Sharon O’Neil.

A referees’ refresher course will be held at KGV Park today from 11am-3pm, while tomorrow at The Grange, in Campbell Town, the whistlers will conduct their annual seminar between those same hours.

Photo:  The referees at Wednesday's A-League game in Launceston warming up at Aurora Stadium [PlessPix]

“Referees come from all walks of life,” said George Kalis, FFT Competitions Manager.

“Our referees are a professional and excellent mob.

“Referees are stalwarts of the game.

“They are dedicated people doing a tough job.”

Ms O’Neill holds senior FIFA, Asian Football Confederation and Football Federation Australia refereeing qualifications.

Photo:  Kim Barker has been Tasmania's top referee for a decade [PlessPix]

Her role is effectively as a refereeing teacher and coach.

“Sharon O’Neill has coached referees at an international level,” said Kalis.

“She will be a huge asset to our referees preparing for the year ahead.

“We’re honoured to have her here in Tasmania for a top weekend of referee training.

“FFT is always on the lookout for new referees.

“Referees get paid, keep fit and enjoy the game.”

Photo:  Kim Barker (left), with three of the State's top up-and-coming officials Hanna Manuela, Brenton Kopra and Patrick Galloway [PlessPix]

Photo:  FFT president Sean Collins is also a current referee [PlessPix]