Australian referees Lucien Laverdure and Stephen Lucas have been selected to officiate at the Dr. Pepper Dallas Cup in the US in March.
Australian referees Lucien Laverdure and Stephen Lucas have been selected to officiate at the Dr. Pepper Dallas Cup in the US from 24-31 March 2013.
The Dallas Cup is considered one of the most prestigious international youth tournaments in the world and this year it will be celebrating its 34th year, previously hosting youth teams from clubs including Manchester United, Coritiba and Eintracht Frankfurt.
Football Federation Australia is providing opportunities for referees to receive more international exposure so that this experience can be used in the Hyundai A-League.
Lucien Laverdure is on the Hyundai A-League referee-s panel and has performed very well in his debut season, refereeing eight matches.
“I began refereeing at a young age for a bit of pocket money on the side, but I am really looking forward to this international tournament in Dallas,” Laverdure said.
Stephen Lucas regularly officiates in the Hyundai A-League as a fourth official and said he was looking forward to the opportunity.
“I am very excited about the opportunity of working with big name teams and it is a huge opportunity to enhance my own experience at such a prestigious event” Lucas said.
Laverdure and Lucas, both 27, progressed through their respective State levels, before being selected on the National Talent Pool in 2012.
The National Talent Pool was established last year to provide opportunities to referees with the capability and potential to referee nationally and internationally.
In its first year, 14 referees graduated on to the Hyundai A-League panels, including Laverdure and Lucas. The National Talent Pool for 2013 was recently announced, with 71 referees looking to follow in their footsteps.
Football Federation Australia is extremely proud of the progression and development of all the referees from the National Talent Pool and hopes Lucien and Stephen have a successful and enjoyable tournament in Dallas.