Dominik Sirant joins the international referee ranks
The European Refereeing Commission (ERC) successfully delivered an International Referee Candidate Course attended by 26 candidates from 24 National Federations, including Scottish referee, Dominik Sirant– laying the groundwork for the emergence of the next cohort of elite Volleyball referees. The course, whose programme included also officiating as many as 44 matches contested by U22 players, was held from May 17 to 24 at the CREPS in Vichy.
The state-of-the-art facilities available allowed the candidates to develop their skills in a truly suitable environment. Moreover, the competition proved challenging from both a technical and human standpoint as well – thereby allowing the candidates to test themselves under conditions close to those they will find themselves in if they are to officiate at an international event.
The course instructors – ERC President Arturo Di Giacomo supported by Zorica Bjelic, Sandy Steel and Frans Loderus – were extremely pleased with the quality of the skills the candidates were able to display. These went far beyond the pure technical knowledge and mastery of the game; the instructors were especially happy with the teamwork and spirit that the attendees showed throughout the whole course. This constructive approach allowed a modern management of all activities as well as the development of a productive cooperation and interaction among all the participants.
Completing the CEV International Referees Candidate Course in Vichy, France, has been one of the proudest moments of my volleyball journey. Representing Scotland on the international stage was both an honour and a privilege, and the experience has given me memories and lessons that I will carry throughout my refereeing career.
This achievement would not have been possible without the support of many people around me.
First and foremost, I want to thank my wife and our three children. Their encouragement, patience, and unwavering support throughout the preparation and time away meant everything to me. Refereeing at this level requires commitment and sacrifice, and I could not have done it without them behind me every step of the way.
I would also like to thank Scottish Volleyball for the opportunity and support throughout my refereeing pathway. The encouragement from the Scottish volleyball community has played a huge part in helping me reach this stage.
A special thank you goes to Andrew Fleming, my coach from my playing days, whose guidance and passion for the sport helped shape my love and understanding of volleyball from an early stage. The foundations built during those years have undoubtedly contributed to where I am today.
Finally, I would like to recognise my referee instructors — Brian McDougall, Dave Cormie, and John Swan. Their knowledge, mentorship, and continued support have been invaluable throughout my refereeing journey. I have learned so much from each of them, and I am extremely grateful for the time and effort they have invested in helping me develop.
Completing this course is not the end of the journey, but another important step forward. I look forward to continuing to represent Scottish volleyball with pride and to developing further as an international referee in the years ahead.
