In the world of football, players often steal the spotlight, but behind every great match is a referee ensuring the game is fair, disciplined, and most importantly, fun. At the Singapore Youth League (SYL), referees are as much a part of the action as the players themselves, each with their own journey, challenges, and triumphs. Today, we introduce you to two such referees: Wan Tung Han (54 years old), a veteran with years of experience, and Sujimy Huzaifah (18 years old), a young, energetic referee at the start of his promising career. Despite their age difference, both share the same passion for the game and bring a unique perspective to the pitch.

SYL: A place for growth beyond the pitch

The SYL is more than just a youth football league; it’s a place where dreams are nurtured, not only for players but for everyone involved. Coaches, administrators, staff, and referees all find opportunities for personal and professional growth. In this league, football isn’t just a game – it’s a community. Parents become cheerleaders, coaches become mentors, and referees like Wan and Sujimy find their purpose, ensuring every match is played with integrity.

While players hone their skills, officials develop their craft too. SYL offers everyone the chance to grow, whether it’s on the sidelines, in the stands, or in the heat of the match. It’s a place where respect, friendship, and development come together in the spirit of football.

The veteran: Wan Tung Han

For Wan, refereeing wasn’t always the plan. Like many who get involved in football, his journey began on the pitch as a player during his school days. But in 2014, something unexpected happened. “I got into refereeing by chance,” he recalls with a smile. “I signed up for a course to learn more about the laws of the game. I didn’t expect it would lead to this!”

Since that fateful decision, Wan has become a regular face at SYL matches. His favourite part? “Every match is unique and memorable. I enjoy every single one,” he says. But beneath the joy of refereeing lies the reality of sacrifices. For Wan, the biggest challenge has been balancing his passion for football with his family life. “Most SYL matches are played on weekends, so I have to spend time away from my family and children. Luckily, they’re understanding and supportive,” he shares.

It’s the little things that keep him going: “Seeing players smile, watching good football, and knowing I’ve played a part in that makes it all worth it,” says Wan, his eyes lighting up with pride. Despite the weekend sacrifices, Wan knows he’s part of something bigger.

For young referees just starting out, Wan offers simple yet profound advice: “Refereeing takes patience, character, and a lot of focus. It can be demanding, but staying healthy—both physically and mentally—will help you enjoy the journey.”

The promising young talent: Sujimy Huzaifah

Sujimy’s journey into refereeing began at just 16 years of age, when he took his first steps onto the pitch with a whistle in hand, encouraged by his father. Despite his young age, Sujimy has quickly established himself as a promising talent, demonstrating maturity and passion far beyond his years.

His most memorable moment? The excitement of his very first SYL match. “The energy on the pitch was contagious. Both the players and my fellow officials were buzzing,” he recalls with a grin.

But being a young referee has its challenges, especially when balancing school and football. “The biggest challenge has been juggling school work with refereeing commitments,” Sujimy admits. Yet, this hasn’t dampened his enthusiasm. “What I love most is meeting new players and coaches, and sometimes even building friendships with them.”

Like Wan, Sujimy’s ambitions stretch far beyond SYL. “I want to referee in the Singapore Premier League and hopefully one day, the World Cup,” he shares with a determined smile. His journey is just beginning, and he’s ready to embrace every challenge that comes his way.

For other young referees, Sujimy’s advice is clear: “Start early, stay calm under pressure, and keep learning. Refereeing can be tough, but the rewards are worth it.”

The lighter side of refereeing

It’s not all rules and discipline for these two referees. They’ve both experienced their share of light-hearted moments on the field. For Wan, it’s the dream of officiating a major final in front of a packed stadium that brings a smile to his face. “It would be fascinating and memorable,” he says.

Sujimy, on the other hand, had an unexpected encounter on the pitch recently. “Some players recognised me from a viral TikTok video and kept asking if I was that referee. It was funny and completely unexpected!” he laughs.

Calm amidst the chaos

Both Wan and Sujimy understand the importance of staying composed, especially when emotions run high on the pitch. “Football is an emotional sport,” says Wan. “I let players and coaches have their say, as long as it’s respectful. But if they cross the line, I take action.”

What most people don’t realise about refereeing is the immense pressure referees face in making decisions. “We have to make the right call in a split second, in a high-pressure environment,” says Wan. Watching from the stands or on TV doesn’t compare to being in the thick of the action

Final whistle

From the seasoned experience of Wan to the youthful energy of Sujimy, it’s clear that refereeing in the SYL is more than just making calls. It’s about passion, perseverance, and being part of a community. The SYL isn’t just a league—it’s a family. A place where not only players grow, but also referees, coaches, parents, and everyone involved. Wan and Sujimy’s stories remind us that football is about more than goals and victories; it’s about the people who make it happen behind the scenes.

As our SYL Fam grows, let’s remember that referees deserve the same support and respect as players and coaches, setting a positive example for our youth and reinforcing that the SYL is a united family both on and off the field.