The Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has launched the country’s first-ever IBA (International Boxing Association) 1-Star International Qualification Course for Referees and Judges in over a decade, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lankan boxing.
The course began in Kandy and is being conducted alongside the highly anticipated Clifford Cup Championship and Youth Boxing Tournament scheduled that commenced on December 18 and ends today.
This historic initiative, last held in 2010 exclusively for women officials, underscores BASL’s commitment to elevating the standards of officiating in Sri Lanka. The programme is led by renowned Welsh instructor John Waith, an IBA Technical Delegate and Referee and Judge Instructor, who conducted the theory sessions on the opening day.
The BASL Referees and Judges Commission meticulously selected 25 candidates through a competitive interview and examination process. The course also featured six women officials, demonstrating BASL’s focus on inclusivity and expanding opportunities for female referees and judges.
Commenting on the significance of this initiative, BASL President Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara stated: “The Boxing Association of Sri Lanka is proud to host this historic 1-Star International Qualification Course after more than a decade. This program provides a golden opportunity for our officials to gain international recognition without the burden of traveling abroad.
By enhancing their skills and knowledge, we aim to ensure fairer decisions, greater transparency and improved officiating standards, which are essential for Sri Lanka to excel on the global stage.”
The list of selected candidates for the course were Jagath Pallekumbura, Prasad Wijesekara, Prabath Nanayakkara, Manoj Jayawardhana, Mahesh Kothalawala, Anuruddha Rathnayaka, Erick Perera, Samantha Seelawansa, Rashmika Galhena, Wasantha Palamakumbura, Amila Ambagala, Sunanda Godavithana, Anura Tennakoon, Anuradha Deshapriya, Tharanga Perera, PU Sampath, Manjula Sakalasooriya, MAL Perera, TCK Weerasinghe, Sithari Sandareka, Ishani Apsara, Thanuja Dharmasena, Niroshani Bodhipaksha, Madushani Fernando and Shiromali Weerarathne.
