Football referees perform a fitness test around the Olympic Stadium track yesterday ahead of participation in the 2012 Hun Sen Cup. Photo by: Tong Manika

The Football Federation of Cambodia conducted a short skill and fitness test at the Olympic Stadium yesterday for a group of 40 referees and assistants, including three from the distaff side, who will officiate during the season opening 2012 Hun Sen Cup competition, which kicks off on January 7.

The workshop was held under the watchful eyes of five FIFA nominated Cambodian instructors and Tetsu Karakida, a referee supervisor from Japan. The participants were divided into five groups and were put through various stress tests for speed, stamina and endurance. The routines included repetitive short sprints and brisk walking, two prime skills required for referees who have to keep pace with the players all the time during a match.

An additional session focusing on offside officiating for assistant referees was conducted yesterday afternoon.

The FFC is planning a similar workshop for referees in March 2012, according to football referees instructor Tuy Bunhoeurn.