The Green Shirt Referee Programme

Participants are supported through their Level 1 Certification, and provided with essential equipment. To help address sideline abuse, new referees are given a green shirt upon completing the course, signaling to players and supporters that they are a new referee who may need more space and time to make decisions, develop skills and gain confidence on the field.

“The green helped me feel more comfortable reffing in my first couple of months [...] I don't think I ever got abuse from players or people on the sideline,” said Hunter, a Green Shirt referee with Mainland Football.

The programme helped contribute to a 44% increase in community referees, and a 29% increase in active female referees during 2024. A total of 248 participants completed the NZF Referee Football/Futsal Level 1 Award over the year—more than double the annual target of 120. The programme has shown consistent growth since it started, with participation rising from 175 in 2021 (all male), to 246 in 2022, and peaking at 374 in 2023. Of the 2024 participants, 92 participants took part in the programme, with women making up 32%—surpassing the 22% target for female involvement for that year.

A 2024 post-programme survey found that 84% of respondents agreed (48% strongly, 36% somewhat) the Green Shirt Programme improved their self-confidence while officiating. 84% reported they are very likely to continue refereeing in 2025—demonstrating the programme’s success in supporting referee retention. Additionally, 88% would recommend the initiative to other aspiring referees.

Four of the six federations took part in 2024—Northern Region, Central Football, Mainland Football, and Southern Football. Capital Football is set to join in 2025, expanding the campaign’s reach in supporting the development of the next generation of officials in New Zealand.