Level 3 Referee Certification Achieved Despite the Heatwave
Tongmyong University Soccer Students Complete Intensive 6-Day KFA Training and Pass Final Assessment
The heatwave couldn't stop them!
Three students from the Department of Soccer at Tongmyong University have completed and successfully passed the Level 3 Soccer Referee Special Training Course organized by the Korea Football Association (KFA).
These students, who are former soccer players, have taken on and achieved a new challenge in the field of refereeing, which is another key pillar of soccer.
From July 28 to August 2, they participated in intensive practical training and assessments, both in the mornings and afternoons over six days. Their high level of concentration, deep understanding of match management, and strong sense of responsibility earned them recognition as referees.
Hong Yuchan, a student from the Department of Soccer (Class of 2024) who participated in the referee training, shared, "Through the role of a referee rather than as a player, I was able to see soccer from a completely different perspective. There are many ways to be on the field."
Nam Jungwoo (Class of 2024) said, "I thought I knew a lot about the rules of the game and the referee's role thanks to my experience as a player, but after taking part in the course, I realized that being a referee is a profession that requires a high level of expertise and a strong sense of duty." He added, "Someday, I hope to become a referee on the international stage, and even at the World Cup."
Yoon Haesoo (Class of 2025), a freshman this year, commented, "I took on this challenge because I didn't want to cut ties with soccer after quitting as a player. I'm very happy to be able to reconnect with soccer through this new role as a referee, and I want to grow by gaining experience in even more matches in the future."
Jin Daekeun, head of the Department of Soccer, emphasized, "This case, where former players have discovered and put into practice new possibilities and roles, is a meaningful starting point that can present a wider path for many juniors who wish to pursue soccer as a career." He added, "I hope they will continue to dream big and take on challenges, whether as K League referees or even World Cup referees."
This achievement also aligns with the educational direction pursued by the Department of Soccer at Tongmyong University. The department has expanded the scope of its education and practical training beyond just developing players, enabling students to pursue a variety of soccer-related careers such as referees, coaches, commentators, analysts, and content creators.
Tongmyong University made a splash by winning the 60th Spring University Football Federation Tournament (Hansan Daecheopgi) in February 2024, just two months after establishing its soccer team. The university also finished as runner-up in the 19th Freshman and Sophomore University Football Federation Tournament (Taebaeksan Cup), and took the bronze medal in the men's university division at the 105th National Sports Festival in 2024, establishing itself as a powerhouse in university soccer.
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