Partille World Cup launches referee academy – a new initiative to support young referees

Partille World Cup takes a new step in its development by launching a referee academy aimed at attracting more young referees from Gothenburg and the rest of Sweden – while also strengthening the tournament’s role as an international platform for referee education.

Behind the initiative are national referees Casper Axell and Eldin Bitic, who are responsible for around 50 referees aged 15 to 22 who will officiate matches throughout the week. They are supported by a team of experienced instructors who will coach, support, and guide the referees during the tournament.

– We want to create the best possible conditions for development and make the tournament a natural step for young referees who want to move forward in their careers. Partille World Cup is the world’s largest youth handball tournament – and it should also be a place where young referees can grow, says Casper Axell.

A professional environment for growth
Throughout the week, referees will receive continuous match coaching, daily feedback from instructors, and a written evaluation to take back to their home districts. The aim is to raise the level of refereeing, boost confidence, and equip the referees with tools for the next step in their careers.

– We see this as an investment in the future. Our goal is to create an experience that makes referees want to return year after year, says Axell, who has been a referee for twelve years.

A boost for the whole tournament
The hope is that this new initiative will also be noticed by players, coaches, and spectators. More confident and better-prepared referees lead to better matches – and a more professional feeling on the pitch.
– This shows that we take referees seriously. By offering education and coaching, we’re showing that Partille World Cup is a place where referees can also develop, says Axell, looking ahead to the summer:
– I’m really looking forward to seeing the development of the referees throughout the week. Watching young referees grow each day through support, feedback, and experience will be incredibly rewarding. There is so much potential, and we have every opportunity to make the Partille World Cup week something truly special for the referees too.