AFA & LONSAR Announces New Committee for 2026/27

Following our recent Annual General Meeting, we are pleased to announce the AFA & LONSAR Committee that will lead the Society into an exciting new chapter.

Firstly, we would like to thank all outgoing committee members for their dedication, commitment, and service to the Society. Their contributions have helped maintain and develop our association for the benefit of referees across the region, and we are grateful for the time and effort they have invested in supporting our members.

Committee Changes and Appointments

This year's committee reflects a strong balance of continuity, progression, and fresh perspectives.

We are delighted to welcome Deryll David as the Society's elected Chair, bringing fresh leadership and a clear focus on the future development of AFA & LONSAR. Alongside this, we are pleased to see Chad Chaudhuri appointed as Vice Chair and Oliver Storey appointed as Secretary. Both have been active members of the committee and their appointments recognise their continued commitment and contribution to the Society.

Several committee members will continue in their existing roles, providing valuable stability and experience as the Society moves forward. Chris Beament remains as Treasurer, Ed Stone continues as Training Officer, and Adam Knight retains responsibility as Social Secretary. Their ongoing dedication ensures that key areas of the Society remain in experienced hands.

John Cooke continues as President, providing invaluable guidance and support, while Steve Kelly returns to the committee as Assistant Secretary after a year or so away from the committee.

In addition, we are delighted to welcome Robert Hanison, Abi Oyeleke, and Lorraine Stone as Committee Members. Their involvement brings additional perspectives, ideas, and support as we continue to strengthen and enhance the Society for all members.

Together, this committee combines experience, continuity, and fresh thinking. By blending established knowledge with new energy and ideas, we are well positioned to build on previous successes while introducing positive changes that benefit referees across the Association.

Executive Committee

President – John Cooke

Chair – Deryll David

Vice Chair – Chad Chaudhuri

Secretary – Oliver Storey

Assistant Secretary – Steve Kelly

Treasurer – Chris Beament

Training Officer – Ed Stone

Social Secretary – Adam Knight

Committee Member - Robert Hanison

Committee Member - Abi Oyeleke

Committee Member - Lorraine Stone

Looking Ahead

The new committee is committed to building a modern, engaging, and inclusive Society that supports referees at every stage of their journey.

Over the coming months, members can expect a renewed focus on referee development, member engagement, social events, communication, governance, and strengthening the Society's presence within the local football community. We will be listening carefully to members, reviewing how we operate, and identifying new opportunities to ensure that AFA & LONSAR continues to deliver value for both existing and future members.

As part of this, the committee will shortly be publishing its priorities for the season ahead, including plans to improve member engagement, expand development opportunities, strengthen communication, review governance arrangements, and ensure the Society remains sustainable and relevant for the next generation of referees.

Chair, Deryll David, said:

"I am honoured to have been elected Chair of AFA & LONSAR. We have a fantastic team in place, combining experience, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives. Our focus will be on creating greater value for members, increasing engagement, supporting referee development, and ensuring our Society continues to be a place that referees are proud to be part of. We look forward to working with members throughout the season and sharing our plans in the weeks ahead."

The committee would like to thank all members for their continued support and looks forward to working together to make 2026/27 a successful and memorable season for AFA & LONSAR.

Together, we will support, develop, and inspire referees across our community.