Name: Andy Haynes
Married with three young children Andy started refereeing in his native London in 1995 being promoted Class 3 to Class 1 in only three seasons. In 2000 he relocated to the North East and in 2003 was promoted to the National List of Assistant Referees after having successful seasons on the Wearside and Northern Leagues. After two seasons as a Panel referee he was promoted to the National List of Referees in 2007.
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
I used to play in a mini work league in central London and used to moan about the lack of referees. I was soon put in my place and told if you think you can do better, you take over the role of arranging referees. So I did and ended up refereeing games which I could not cover. I guess the rest is now history!
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being promoted to the National list of referees in 2007
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
Oxford United –v- Exeter City – Conference play off semi final 2nd leg. It was a near full house, live on Sky and a place in the final which was to be played at the New Wembley. It was my first live game as a referee, with so much at stake and many friends, family and fellow referees watching around the country. The game itself was a very tight affair, which ended up going the full distance, with Exeter City winning the penalty shoot out.
What are your aims as a National List Referee?
To be retained next season
What skills do you think you need to become a referee?
You need to be able to demonstrate high ethical and moral behaviour, have unquestionable integrity and be off a strong character and that’s without be able to show empathy with the players, gaining there respect and being very fit!.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
My wife. Without her support and understanding I would not be where I am today.
In your opinion who is/was the best referee?
Pierluigi Collina