PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (August 12, 2025) — An all-female group of 65 match officials—ranging from history-making FIFA veterans to promising newcomers—have begun intensive training ahead of the 2025 CFU U14 Challenge Series Girls, which runs from August 15 to 24.

The training camp in Trinidad and Tobago forms part of the CFU Next Generation Course initiative, designed to prepare referees with the potential to advance to the FIFA International Refereeing Lists. It’s a cornerstone of the Challenge Series’ developmental agenda and aligns with the Capacity-Building pillar of the CFU’s Strategic Framework 2.0, which aims to have Caribbean referees represented at every world game.

Speaking to participants on Tuesday, Concacaf Manager of Refereeing Mark Cahen praised the diversity and ambition in the room.

“What a powerful sight—60 Caribbean women, from bright-eyed beginners to seasoned FIFA veterans. This moment isn’t just an opening ceremony; it’s a celebration of how far we’ve come and where we’re heading,” Cahen said.

He described the program as “a mirror, a classroom, and a launch pad all in one”—reflecting each referee’s journey, providing real-time learning, and propelling them toward greater achievements.

Cahen highlighted the accomplishments of Caribbean trailblazers such as Odette Hamilton, Mijensa Rensch, Crystal Sobers, Cecile Hinds, Jassett Ker-Wilson, and Stephanie Dale Yee Sing, alongside rising stars Santa Medina, Melissa Nicholas, Vimarest Diaz, and Janeishka Caban, all appointed to the upcoming 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

“You’re here because Caribbean women belong on the world’s biggest stages,” Cahen told the group. “The whistle in your hand has power, and when used with confidence and integrity, it can change the game. Football needs you—your eyes, your voice, your leadership.”

The program blends theoretical and physical training with sessions on female athlete health and wellness, team building, and professionalism.

Facilitators include fitness instructors Kelesha Antoine and Rohan Thobourne, technical instructors Dianne Ferreira-James and Victor Stewart, and administrators Dave Meikle and Ishan Philip. Crystal Sobers serves as liaison officer and mentor.

Launched officially in 2022 after a 2021 pilot, the Next Gen program continues to create pathways for Caribbean match officials to shine on football’s global stage.