Alabama Advanced Camp – A Resounding Success

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The Alabama Advanced Camp, held on August 16, 2025, in Huntsville, was a tremendous success, bringing together referees, coaches, and mentors from across the state and beyond. The event combined physical testing, education, and professional development in a single impactful day.

A New Look at the Fitness Test

The day began at 7:00 a.m. with the referee fitness test, hosted at the John Hunt Turf Field. For the first time, the test was conducted on the turf field rather than a running track, offering a setting that more closely mirrors real match conditions. This change was well-received by participants, as it better reflected the demands referees face on the field.

Education and Development Sessions

Following the fitness test, referees gathered at the Brahan Spring Park Gymnasium for a full slate of educational sessions. The agenda highlighted both technical knowledge and personal growth:

  • Welcome & Recognition – Michael Montgomery (SRA)
  • 2025–2026 Law Changes – Frank Jones (SDI)
  • The Nuts and Bolts of an Evaluation – Tim Barron (SDA)
  • “How To” for National Upgrade – Celeste Roberts (National Ref Candidate) & Sarah Gaddes (National AR)
  • Panel Discussion: What Does a Coach Look for in a Referee? – Rik Tozzi, Tiffany Cargill, Joe Webb, Erin Riddle

The afternoon continued with sessions focused on collaboration and mentorship:

  • Teamwork! – Amanda Ross (National Referee Coach)
  • Panel Discussion: What Does a Referee Coach/Mentor Do for You? – Coral Gubler, Denton Kimberly, Julie Smith, Tom Lawson, Tarver Pyke
  • Discussion: What Do You as a Referee Need? – Led by Alabama SYRA/ARAs (Tommy Russell, Dorian Del Toro, Coral Gubler)

The camp concluded with closing remarks by Michael Montgomery, who emphasized the growth of refereeing in Alabama and the importance of continued development.

A Step Forward for Refereeing in Alabama

The camp not only prepared referees for the upcoming season but also fostered community, collaboration, and personal advancement. With the combination of the new fitness test format and high-level instruction, the 2025 Alabama Advanced Camp set a new standard for referee development in the state.