Football SA is proud to announce that local referee Ellie Seaton has been selected as an Assistant Referee for the second intake of the Football Australia Referee Academy (FARA). Ellie went through a rigorous, competitive selection process which included a variety of assessments incorporating both on-field and off-field suitability for the program.
Ellie’s potential was identified early and was invited to participate in the Football SA Referee Academy. During her time in the Academy, she built on her skills and knowledge from the foundations of her officiating journey. The Referee Academy aims to develop Match Officials and creates a pathway from community football to senior football, preparing them for higher levels of competition. Ellie graduated from the Academy at the conclusion of the 2024 season, marking an important milestone in her refereeing progression.
Ellie is just one of 13 Match Officials across Australia chosen for the FARA Class of 2025. Over the next two years, she will receive dedicated education, training and mentoring, with a focus on the technical, physical and mental aspects of refereeing.
Reflecting on her selection, Ellie said:
“I am incredibly excited and grateful for this opportunity. Being part of FARA is a chance to push myself to new levels and grow as a referee. I am looking forward to learning from the best and representing Football SA with pride.”
Football SA’s Referee Department praised Ellie’s selection, highlighting the broader impact on South Australia’s referee community:
“Ellie’s selection is a reflection of her hard work, dedication and passion for refereeing. It also demonstrates the pathways available to referees in South Australia. Her journey shows that with commitment and support, referees can achieve at the highest level.”
Ellie follows in the footsteps of Nick Elagin, who graduated from the inaugural FARA Class of 2023. Nick’s successful completion of the program is a testament to the effectiveness of FARA’s development model and highlights the quality of referees being produced in South Australia. His achievement was celebrated during the Unite Round, symbolising the significance of this pathway for aspiring referees.
You can read more about the second intake of the National Referee Academy here.