It’s time to turn the spotlight on our fantastic Essex grassroots referees! To recognise their unique contribution to football. To show our appreciation for their dedication to our game, our clubs and our communities.

Nominate a local referee who’s impressed you this season, and they could carry home one of nine prestigious awards in The FA’s Referee Recognition Awards 2025. You can nominate as many referees in as many categories as you like. Just tell The FA why you think they should win, and they’ll take care of the rest! There are nine categories:

* Outstanding Contribution to Refereeing Award
* Lifetime Achievement Award
* Refereeing in the Community Award
* Newcomer of the Year Award
* Inspirational Role Model Award
* Championing Diversity Award
* Positive Environment Award
* Refereeing Volunteer Support of the Year Award
* Club Recognition Award

Essex County FA Referee Development Manager, Lukas Wood, is hoping for as many local nominations as possible: “Last year, Essex match officials received national recognition through these awards, and it would be fantastic if we were able to achieve this again in 2025. We’re fortunate to have a great number of very talented and dedicated local referees… so get nominating!”

Make your nomination/s for the Referee Recognition Awards 2025 by following this link. You can also interact with the Essex County FA on social media.