admincrucial adjustments to the wording on the interpretation of the offside Law 11 to minimize confusion and uncertainty on the part of the referees.
The amendments are expected to come into effect worldwide on Monday.
Gwesela said referees who do not take part will not be considered to officiate in competitive matches.
It’s unclear, though, how this will affect those who are on official duty in BancABC Sup8r Cup matches and Division One matches this weekend.
“This is a key amendment in the interpretation of the offside law. Since this amendment will come into effect on July 1, we are expecting all referees to attend the course being offered at various provincial centres across the country.
“We would want to make it clear that those who will miss the course will not be assigned to handle any match as they would not be in tandem with the new amendments,” said Gwesela.
According to a circular from Fifa, football’s rule-makers agreed to amend the offside law in a bid to reduce uncertainty for referees.
The amendment seeks to explain the part of the law which describes when an attacking player is deemed to be in offside position by “interfering with play”, “interfering with play” and “gaining advantage by being in that position”.
“The current wording creates many discussions as it gives too much room for interpretation and is not precise enough.
“The new text is more in line with actual game situations and will eliminate the confusion regarding what is meant by rebound, deflection and when the ball has been deliberately saved,” read the circular from Fifa.
Gwesela said the training, to be facilitated by local instructors who include, Gladmore Muzambi, Wilfred Mukuna, Brighton Mudzamiri and Sabelo Maphosa, will take place as follows:
Today – Harare Group 1, Mashonaland East (Wilfred Mukuna); Harare Group 2, Mashonaland East (Gladmore Muzambi); Bulawayo (Sabelo Maposa); Matabeleland South (Dr. Ncube); Mashonaland West (Brighton Mudzamiri)
Tomorrow – Manicaland (Wilfred Mukuna); Masvingo (Gladmore Muzambi); Midlands (Sabelo Maposa);
Matabeleland North (Dr. Ncube); Mashonaland Central (Brighton Mudzamiri).
Online Reporter