
Independent support, advice and mentoring for referees
The Sovereign FA is independent. It is not part of the English Football Association or any other county, regional, national or global administrative organisation. It is therefore not subject to oversight by any such body. We will, however, work with such organisations to promote the Beautiful Game and encourage people to get involved.
Our motto is, ‘Vincit qui se vincit’- He conquers who conquers himself.
We will support and mentor our members with advice based on decades of experience and good old common sense. We will work with our members and their families to discover how best we can help them get the most out of refereeing.
We will not deny our members their right to an opinion, nor will we impose excessive punishments where lesser options, such as (additional) mentoring are far more appropriate.
We encourage our members to look after their mental and physical health, to keep fit and to maintain a balanced diet. We will not discipline our members for not taking any medication they do not wish to have.
The Sovereign FA will not take part in any political messaging campaigns-they have no place in football. We will not ask our members to ‘take a knee’ or to wear any message-related kit such as ‘rainbow laces,’ armbands or other symbols.
Empowering Independent Referees Everywhere
The Sovereign Football Association unites referees and mentors, fostering collaboration to elevate the game and uphold its integrity.



Uniting Independent Referees for Excellence in Football
Explore our range of professional services designed to help referees develop every aspect of their approach to the game.
Mentoring Programme
Our mentoring programme empowers referees with the help of expert guidance and practical insights.
Tailored Referee Support
We provide a tailored mentoring service for referees before, during and after matches.
Training Workshops
Our workshops are intended to refine referee skills and enhance confidence and decision-making.
Empowering Independent Referees Everywhere
Explore upcoming events designed to bring referees and mentors together for professional development, enjoyment and celebration of the Game.

Annual Referee Leadership Summit
Date TBC

Mentoring in Action Workshop
Date TBC

End-of-Season Recognition Ceremony
Date TBC
Blog
Explore articles, expert insights, and resources crafted to elevate your understanding of the referee profession.
-
Our Founder, Andrew Peterson
I qualified as a referee in March 1998. Since then I have officiated in more…
-
An Introduction to the Sovereign FA.
This paragraph serves as an introduction to your blog post. Begin by discussing the primary…
-
Building a Community of Confident, Knowledgeable and Experienced Referee Professionals
This paragraph serves as an introduction to your blog post. Begin by discussing the primary…
-
Why Referee Mentoring Matters in Football
Making a good impression is important. A HELPING HANDWe have all been in situations where…
Elevating Independent Refereeing Excellence
Discover what our community is saying about our services and the positive impact we’ve made.
The Sovereign Football Association Can be a game-changer in suporting and encouraging referees and mentors.
These are the comments we are aiming for. All feedback is welcome.

Joining this association has been an invaluable step in advancing my refereeing career.

Their unwavering commitment to quality and professionalism sets them apart.

I couldn’t be more satisfied with the guidance and opportunities provided here.

I have learnt so much, not just about refereeing but also about the mental side of the Game.
I now feel a great deal happier and more confident every time I set foot on the pitch.
