Referee body cameras to be trialled in attempt to curb abuse

Sign up to Miguel Delaney’s Reading the Game newsletter sent straight to your inbox for free Sign up to Miguel’s Delaney’s free weekly newsletter Sign up to Miguel’s Delaney’s free weekly newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Referee body cameras will be trialled in four adult grassroots leagues in England, starting this weekend. The BBC contacted 7,000 members of the Referees Association and 908 of the 927 respondents - almost 98 per cent - indicated they had experienced verbal abuse from spectators, players, coaches or managers. open image in gallery Premier League referees have faced scrutiny after a series of controversial VAR decisions FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “Referees are the lifeblood of our game and we thank the IFAB for their support in allowing us to undertake this new grassroots bodycam trial, the first of its nature globally. I think it’s going to increase my skills and awareness on how we communicate with players - not only how we conduct ourselves on a matchday, but also being able to take charge of the game with a bit more authority on some occasions.” Mohammed, who referees for the same association, added: “It’s a defining moment in grassroots football.