Bayelsa Preseason Tournament educates teams on FIFA rules, equips referees

Organisers of the 2025 Bayelsa Preseason Football Tournament held a one-day lecture on the “Laws of the Game” on Wednesday at the Indoor Hall of the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa.

The session, facilitated by the Bayelsa State Referees’ Council, aimed to familiarize players from teams, including Bayelsa United, Bendel Insurance, Warri Wolves, EGM FC, and Kun Khalifat FC, with the latest FIFA regulations.

Bendel Insurance Head Coach Greg Ikhenoba lauded the initiative, describing it as an “educational lecture” that benefits players, the key actors in the game.

Likewise, Bayelsa United Head Coach Meremu Okara called the session timely, citing frequent updates to football rules.

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He highlighted the need for fan involvement in such programs to minimize misunderstandings about referee decisions and praised the organizers and the Bayelsa Referees’ Association for their efforts.

Chairman of the Bayelsa State Referees’ Association, Ebi Nwankwe expressed gratitude to the organizers for the opportunity to enhance referees’ knowledge. He also commended the donation of match and training kits to referees, noting that officials are often overlooked during equipment distribution.

Tournament Coordinator Diseye Nwankwe emphasized that the lecture was crucial due to FIFA’s frequent updates to the laws of the game, ensuring teams are well-prepared for the upcoming season.

He thanked Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, and Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Daniel Bariladei Igali, for their support in making the tournament possible.

The tournament resumes with Match Day Three on Thursday at the Samson Siasia Stadium. EGM FC will face Bayelsa United U-20 at 1 p.m., followed by Kun Khalifat FC against Bayelsa United at 3 p.m., with both matches determining semifinal qualifiers.