Nine Northern Territory Peak Sporting Bodies will benefit from officiating development grants through the Department of Tourism and Culture’s, 2017/18 Officiating Development Program.

Administered through the Northern Territory Institute of Sport, the funding provides qualified sporting officials with opportunities to develop their skills for the benefit of sport across the Territory.

Round One funding totalled $22,000 across nine organisations, including Northern Territory Athletics, Northern Territory Cricket Association, Equestrian Northern Territory, Football Federation Northern Territory, Northern Territory Gymnastics Association, Hockey NT, Tennis NT, and Triathlon NT.

The Department of Tourism and Culture’s Executive Director - Sport and Recreation, Phillip Leslie, congratulated the successful NT Peak Sporting Bodies and said he looked forward to the qualified officials developing their skills further.

“Sport officials play an integral role in sport and this program ensures that support is provided to our local clubs so they can stay up-to-date and ensure the spirit of the game is observed by all.

“The Officiating Development Program not only provides opportunities for sports to develop their officials, both personally and professionally, but it’s also a really great way to recognise the professionalism of our referees, linesman, umpires, judges, timekeepers, and marshalls.

“I’m always impressed by the quality and professionalism of officials in the Territory and the program was particular in selecting applications that will directly benefit and strengthen the capability and sustainability of officiating ranks among NT Peak Sporting Bodies,” said Mr Leslie.

The 2017/18 program was revised to spotlight the importance of ongoing coaching and educating of officials, in order to assess, educate and coach new and experienced officials in sport across the Territory, with peak sporting bodies able to apply for up to $4,000.

Congratulations to the following recipients:

• Northern Territory Athletics Inc. $3,000
• Northern Territory Cricket Association Inc. $2,000
• Equestrian Northern Territory $5,408
• Football Federation Northern Territory Inc. $2,925
• Northern Territory Gymnastic Association Incorporated $1,530
• Hockey NT Incorporated $4,000
• Tennis NT Incorporated $2,400
• Triathlon NT Inc. $762

Applications for the program’s 2017/18 Round Two will take place from late February 2018.

ENDS

Media contact: Department of Tourism and Culture | Media Manager 0476 844 832