KICK-OFF WITH KING: Tonight sees the start of a pioneering effort by the Suffolk Football Association to assist young referees. The Suffolk Young Referees Academy meets for the first time at Whitton United's ground with 25 officials aged 20 and under attending.

By Elvin King

TONIGHT sees the start of a pioneering effort by the Suffolk Football Association to assist young referees.

The Suffolk Young Referees Academy meets for the first time at Whitton United's ground with 25 officials aged 20 and under attending.

These youngsters will be given special help by various people, including mentors at games, and there will now be somewhere for them to discuss topics with colleagues of their own age.

Tonight sees the long-term hopes of training officer George Whight come to fruition, while Keith Hill, the FA's regional manager for referees, will be making an appearance.

The meeting starts at 7.00pm at the Whitton United clubhouse, King George V ground in Old Norwich Road, Ipswich.