FIFA announces match officials for 2007

OTTAWA, ONTARIO – The Canadian Soccer Association has received confirmation from FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) that 16 Canadian officials will be included in the International List of Match Officials for 2007 effective January 1st.



FIFA publishes a list of referees and assistant referees that are eligible to officiate at international matches. The list is drawn from the National Soccer Associations nominations for officials who meet the conditions required by FIFA.



“Just like it is for the players, it is an honour for the referees and assistant referees to represent their country by officiating on the International stage,” said CSA Director of Refereeing Joe Guest.



Some of the Canadian names are familiar, such as Maurico Navarro has been on the list since 2000 and has officiated in many high profile games within CONCACAF. Hector Vergara, who holds the record for officiating in the highest number (11) of FIFA World Cup Final Tournament games, is another noticeable. Three new referees made the list – Paul Ward, Michelle Pye and Darci Konowalchuk. The new assistant referees are Daniel Belleau, Joe Fletcher and Marie-Jose Allaire.



The Canadian Soccer Association would like to wish them success in 2007.



To become a soccer referee, please contact your local Provincial Soccer Association. Provincial associations will be holding entry-level referee courses in the New Year.



FIFA list of Match Officials for 2007:



Referees (Men):

Mauricio Navarro BC

Steven DePiero ON

Silvu Petrescu ON

Paul Ward BC



Referees (Women):

Carol-Anne Chenard QC

Michelle Pye BC

Darci Konowalchuk AL



Assistant Referees (Men):

Amato Deluca ON

Hector Vergara MB

Simon Fearn BC

Jean-Francois Corrivault QC

Daniel Belleau QC

Joe Fletcher ON



Assistant Referees (Women):

Charlene Douglas AL

Denise Robinson ON

Marie-Jose Allaire QC