Football family Robertson team up on refereeing front

Apr 22 2009 by Mel Booth, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

“I would certainly recommend other people of my age to go into refereeing. It is also a good way to earn a bit of extra money.”

As well as their whistleblower duties, Jacob and Luke play for Westend Juniors of Salendine Nook.

Jacob, like his sibling, said he enjoyed being a referee. He explained: “It’s going well and if things carry on, hopefully I will continue.”

Therese said her family were aware of the referee shortage in Huddersfield football and the Examiner’s Save The Ref campaign.

“The fact Jacob and Luke have trained to become an official, demonstrates their commitment to the game.

“The jury is still out for them but they are giving it a go which is a good thing.”

Michael said despite now living in Huddersfield, he was brought up in Newcastle – a place where people love football and this passion had probably rubbed off on his family.

“There needs to be more young referees out there than what there is in Huddersfield,” he added.

“If you like football it is a great way to stay involved; you get some good banter and it certainly beats shopping!”

Michael said he started to referee when his son, Luke, first played for Westend and he found there was nobody to take charge of their games.

He then enrolled onto the full referee course and has since officiated in the Huddersfield Junior League for more than four years and takes charge of games in the senior District League.

He said: “I thoroughly enjoy it. When you officiate in junior football you do get a few problems, mainly from parents shouting on the touchlines.

“But, I can honestly say that I have never had any major problems.”

Anyone interested in becoming a referee should contact Neil Simpson, referees’ instructor for the Huddersfield FA on 01422 374916.

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