The head of the SFA referees plans to investigate the costs of introducing vanishing spray to help senior referees in Scotland. Officials have been gearing up for the new campaign by going through intense physical and mental assessments at an SFA get-together where the use of spray was on the agenda. The spray won widespread approval when it was used to positive effect during this summer's World Cup in Brazil.
The SFA head of referee operations John Fleming said: "The vanishing spray is a tool that can assist the referee during the game but I don't see a great need for it here in Scotland. However, I will investigate the costs and see if it is practical to bring it in."
Officials sponsor Specsavers joined up with category one refs Bobby Madden, Nick Walsh and Don Robertson at the gathering in Stirling to unveil the new kit and re-cement the successful partnership before the new season kicks off. Shirley-Ann Kennedy, Scottish regional chair for Specsavers, said: "We are delighted to have been involved in the pre-season event today, as it has given us a real insight into the work that goes into keeping our match officials at the very top of their game. It’s great to see the new kit for 2014/15 ready to go for the season, but our partnership with the Scottish FA goes far beyond just a logo on a shirt. We’re committed to helping to provide grassroots training for potential referees, inspiring respect for match officials and making sure they are in top condition through regular sight and hearing tests carried out in our stores across Scotland. We look forward to continuing to support the Scottish FA throughout the coming season and beyond."
Fleming said: "The new domestic season is just around the corner and today provided us with the chance to bring our referees together for a day of preparation work. The referees performed at a high level both domestically and internationally last season and I am confident we will see those high standards maintained this season. We’re delighted to launch our new referee kit for the forthcoming season and are grateful to Specsavers for their continued support."