Referees impact has positive effect
Apr 21 2009 By Graham Britton
"It is a hard job. You need a strong personality because people do quarrel with you from time to time. But there is no doubt about it, if you have that type of personality you will enjoy it."
Steve Rhodes, referee development officer at West Riding County FA, said that any player who planned on hanging up their boots should seriously consider becoming a referee.
"Being a referee is not all about issuing players with red or yellow cards, it’s much more than that and enjoyable too," he said.
"From local park football on a Sunday morning to the FA Cup final, all football needs referees.
"On a basic training course held a few months ago I suggested to candidates that it was the next best thing to playing only to hear a colleague instructor offering a different opinion by saying ‘it’s even better than that!’
"Coming from a former player released from a professional football club after a number of injuries who, in six seasons, progressed through the ranks to officiate in Football League matches, it was quite a statement."
Steve said with the growth in popularity of football, the demand for match officials was increasing.
He added: "It never ceases to amaze me how many candidates attending a basic training course say the words ‘I never knew that’ when being taught the laws of football.
"Yet many will readily admit they’ve criticised an official for getting decisions wrong when they’ve never read the laws themselves!
"It can be challenging but it is a great way to start or maintain involvement in the game.
"Absolutely anyone can take it up by simply contacting the West Riding County FA and getting themselves booked on a basic referees’ course."
"The fee may sound expensive at £60 or £80 according to your age – although £10 or £30 is refunded once you’ve qualified – but why not ask a club to sponsor you?
"For a 16-year-old, for instance, who has an ambition to become a professional footballer in the Premier League, the chances of success are probably one in 100,000.
"Whereas, to reach the same level as a referee, the chances are nearer one in 100!"
Anyone interested in becoming a referee should contact Neil Simpson, referees’ instructor for the Huddersfield FA, on 01422 374916.
TOMORROW: @Meet our family of referees.
