The FAI will host the referee's beginner's course in Carlow, Cork, Donegal, Dublin and Waterford throughout August and September.

Irish referees have recently received a number of high profile appointments in UEFA and FIFA competitions.

League of Ireland referee, Alan Kelly has been appointed by FIFA to referee the 2010 World Cup Qualifying match between Azerbaijan and Germany on August 12th. His assistants are Marc Douglas and Damien McGrath with Ian Stokes acting as 4th official.Meanwhile, David Mc Keon was appointed to referee the Europa League 2nd Qualifying round match between FBK Kaunas and FK Sevojno in Lithuania on July 16th. His assistants were Ciaran Delaney and David Wogan and Neil Doyle acted as fourth official while Irish women's referee, Paula Brady was appointed as an assistant referee for the UEFA Women's U19 Finals in Belarus in July.

This course involves both practical and interactive participation. It is open to men and women over the age of 16 years of age.

This is a course for those who intend to actively participate as referees. Support systems will be in place to help and advise you in your refereeing and you will receive a licence on completion of a set number of games.

The course will be €50 to all participants and includes all materials and FAI Referee Registration fees for Season 2008/09.

Cork: Colaiste Stiofan Naofa on the Tramore Road, Saturday 22nd August 2009. Contact Brian at: 086 8113959 or oreganbp@eircom.net .

Waterford: Waterford Crystal Sports Centre. Saturday 29th August 2009, and Saturday 5th SeptemberContact Joe at: 0876695700 or jcaseyhome@eircom.net