The International Referee Course opened in Doha, with 15 referees representing a number of countries around the globe.
Organized by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), the course coincides with Qatar's hosting of the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Boys' U-17 World Championship.
International referee Atef Al Yafei represents Qatar, alongside a contingent of participating referees from various continents.
Overall, the course intends to enhance the capabilities of international referees accredited at the continental level and promoted to Category C under the FIVB classification, allowing them to take charge of global contests and continental championships.
It features theoretical and practical aspects, while referees taking part in the Doha FIVB Volleyball Boys' U-17 World Championship marks a primary step in their international classification, with Category C representing the initial stage in their progression toward Categories B and A.
The course is directed by Guillermo Paredes, President of the Rules of the Game and Refereeing Commission of the FIVB, aided by international instructors Guy Bradbury of Canada and Zorka of Serbia.
The lectures and practical sessions focus on technical and refereeing aspects, with the intention of honing the referees' skills and enhancing their readiness to take charge of global competitions.
Yousef Ahmed Kanoo, Secretary-General of the Qatar Volleyball Association and Administrative Director of the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Boys' U17 World Championship, inaugurated the course in the presence of Ibrahim Mohammed Al Naama, Chairman of the Referees Committee and a member of the Board of Directors of the Qatar Volleyball Association, alongside a host of participating referees.
Kanoo emphasized the significant role of the FIVB in advancing refereeing workforces, pointing out that Doha's hosting of this course manifestly confirms confidence in the State of Qatar to host global events and programs, helping strengthen refereeing levels in this sport.
By and large, the course offers an opportunity for participants to foster their expertise in terms of technical aspects, along with their readiness to participate in upcoming international competitions.