Players from PSG Academy West Midlands had the distinct honour of meeting His Royal Highness Prince William during a special refereeing course aimed at developing young officials in the game. The course was part of the FA’s Reflective and Representative campaign, which aims to recruit 1,000 people from Black, Asian, and Mixed Heritage backgrounds over the next three years into referee roles and was held at Sporting Khalsa FC.
Prince William, a well-known football enthusiast and Patron of the Football Association, engaged with aspiring referees, coaches, and academy players during the event. His presence underscored the significance of grassroots football development and the need for better support for match officials at all levels of the game.
During the visit, the Prince met representatives from the FA and Sporting Khalsa to hear about the importance of opening up opportunities in football to young people from diverse backgrounds. He also observed live training sessions, participated in discussions about the challenges faced by referees, and even took part in some hands-on refereeing exercises. His interactions with the young referees provided inspiration and encouragement, reinforcing the message that referees play a crucial role in the sport.
11/03/2025. Willenhall, UK. Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Six players from The PSG Academy West Midlands were in attendance as they worked towards their qualifications as referees. Such opportunities are available to those enrolled in the Academy whilst studying for their A-levels at Amythyst Sixth Form.
The PSG Academy West Midlands was formed last year when the PSG Academy UK established a regional hub at Morton School in Wolverhampton and a partnership with Amethyst Sixth Form. Students of the Sixth Form are given the opportunity to join the PSG Academy while studying for their A-levels—this is the only place in the area where they can do this! As members of the Academy, they benefit from strength and conditioning training, nutrition and wellbeing workshops, business workshops, data analysis and individual mentorship, ensuring a holistic approach to their development both on and off the pitch.
11/03/2025. Willenhall, UK. Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Wayne Spicer , Head of the PSG Academy West Midlands, and Behaviour & Attitudes Leader for Amythyst Sixth Form, reflected on the significance of the day; “Throughout the day, the students showed great enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication to their learning. Watching them engage with the session, take on board key refereeing techniques, and interact with Prince William himself was a proud moment. They conducted themselves with maturity and passion, demonstrating their commitment to not only playing football but also understanding its intricate rules from an official’s perspective.
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunities that have come our way, and this experience was another reminder of how fortunate we are to be part of such an inspiring journey. The ability to learn from top-level professionals, engage with the FA, and even see Prince William taking an interest in refereeing is something that will stay with these young learners for a long time.
Football is more than just a game—it’s a world of opportunities, learning, and growth. Seeing our Academy students take such a keen interest in the officiating side of the sport is a testament to their dedication and the bright futures ahead of them. This experience was not just about gaining a qualification; it was about embracing the game in its entirety and understanding the role that referees play in keeping the sport fair, competitive, and exciting.
A huge thank you to everyone involved for making this day so memorable, and of course, to Prince William for showing that even royalty can appreciate the complexities of refereeing.”
11/03/2025. Willenhall, UK. Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
The day and the refereeing course itself has made an impression on the students as one of our players, Nana, shared his thoughts on the experience:
“The course was good, and I learned so many ways to handle a match, both as a referee and as an assistant official.”
If you would like to know more about how you can join the Paris Saint-Germain family in the West Midlands whilst studying for your future, then get in touch or apply direct today! You never know, you too could be joined by royalty on the pitch!