Advanced Regional Referee Clinic Brings Alabama’s Top Officials Together
The Alabama Referee Program’s 2026 Advanced Regional Referee Clinic was another tremendous success, bringing together Regional Referees, Regional Referee Candidates, coaches, mentors, and instructors for a full day of education, collaboration, and professional development.
While the day began with an unexpected change of plans due to severe weather, the enthusiasm and commitment of those in attendance never wavered. Excessive rainfall forced the closure of the fields, resulting in the cancellation of the scheduled Regional Referee Fitness Test. Despite the weather, the educational program proceeded as planned, allowing attendees to take full advantage of an outstanding day of instruction.
A Day Focused on Growth
Following a morning social gathering, State Referee Administrator Michael Montgomery welcomed attendees and officially opened the clinic. With the scheduled field session canceled due to weather, National Coach, former MLS Referee, and former U.S. Soccer Director of Referee Development Rick Eddy, along with National Coach and former MLS Referee Richard Heron, adapted the day’s program to deliver an expanded classroom experience.
Throughout the morning, Eddy and Heron shared lessons from their extensive careers at the professional and national levels, leading discussions on match management, positioning, teamwork, communication, and the decision-making expected of officials at the highest levels of the game. The interactive sessions challenged referees to continue raising their standards while providing practical insight that officials can immediately apply to their matches.
The afternoon featured lunch discussions for referees and mentors before Michael Montgomery presented the 2026–2027 IFAB Law Changes, ensuring officials are prepared for the upcoming season. Eddy and Heron continued the afternoon with additional educational sessions before closing the clinic with an in-depth presentation on referee and assistant referee movement, reinforcing positioning, teamwork, communication, and decision-making.
Recognizing Leadership and Achievement
The clinic also served as an opportunity for the Alabama State Referee Committee (SRC) to recognize both leadership and excellence within the referee program.
The Alabama SRC expressed its sincere appreciation to Tim Barron for his years of dedicated service as State Director of Assessments. Barron’s commitment to referee development has had a lasting impact on officials throughout the state. As he steps down from the position, the SRC congratulated Julie Smith, who will assume the role of State Director of Assessments, and wished her success as she continues supporting the development and assessment of Alabama referees.
The SRC also celebrated two outstanding accomplishments by Alabama officials. Dorian Del Toro was recognized for earning his U.S. Soccer National Referee badge—one of the highest achievements attainable by a referee in the United States. Sarah Gaddes was honored after being named the Gainbridge Super League Assistant Referee of the Year, recognizing her exceptional performances and continued excellence at the professional level.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Advanced Regional Referee Clinic once again demonstrated the Alabama Referee Program’s commitment to developing officials through education, mentorship, and collaboration. Despite Mother Nature forcing the cancellation of the fitness test, the clinic delivered a full day of meaningful instruction and professional growth.
The Alabama Referee Program extends its sincere thanks to Rick Eddy and Richard Heron, and everyone who attended and contributed to another outstanding clinic. As the 2026–2027 season approaches, Alabama referees leave the clinic better prepared, better connected, and ready for the challenges ahead.
