An Evaluation of Body Composition of Elites Football Referees in Nigeria: A Descriptive Survey

Abstract

The dwindling level of performance and non-appearance of Nigerian referees at regional, continental and international competitions has become a matter of great concern to major stakeholders and government of Nigeria. Many questions have been raised as to why Nigerian referees are not regularly invited or involved in major international competition in recent times. Could this be as a result of poor educational background? Is it that Nigerian referees can't measure up to the standard of physical fitness required of football referees as establish by FIFA? Could it be that Nigerian referees are not undergoing the right training programme that would enable them achieve required physical fitness status? All these questions are begging for answers because performance of football referees has a recommended range (standard characteristics or norms) as far as FIFA is concerned, and all referees must meet up with the standard in other to be recognized by the international body. However, to officiate a successful match, a referee is expected to possess basic good physical (age, height and body mass index) performance requirements attributes in addition to having good eye sight and sound state of health, in order to cope with the stress demanded in officiating. The purpose of this study therefore was to evaluate Elite Football Referees' body composition in Nigeria and compare with the standard characteristics or norms. Body composition compared were height and body mass index (BMI) of elite football referees in Nigeria. The subjects of the study consist of 40 active grades one, premier and FIFA referees from Nigeria who are currently officiating in all Nigeria Leagues, CAF and FIFA competitions. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistic. The results obtained from the analysis of data revealed that, there were no significant differences between the standard characteristic or norms and the referees’ height and body mass index (BMI). Based on the finding of the study, it was recommended among others that, Nigerian Referees' selection and promotion should be based on those that met the standard norms. In conclusion, attention of the Nigeria Football Federation and Nigeria (Football) Referees' Association were drawn to those areas where improvements were needed.