Name:
Robert Watson
Age: 61
Refereeing level: 10
Years Refereeing 33
Email Address: robwatson3@yahoo.co.uk
How
where you introduced into refereeing?
I had
stood in for referees who had not turned up, or not been
appointed, at Ferryboat Lane, when I was contacted by both
George Botham & Norman Dodsworth, who were local league
secretaries, asking me to take the referees’ course in
1976.
What
has been the highlight of your career so far and why?
I was
working in Namibia, & refereed the final of the
National Inter Mines Tournament in 1984, & following
this, I was asked to organize all the officials for the
following year’s tournament, again being in the middle for
the final, & was subsequently highly praised.
What is the biggest game you have officiated and why?
The
above two finals & many local finals in the Sunderland
leagues.
What are your aims and ambitions as a referee?
I am
awaiting a second knee replacement, & hope to be able
to referee the youngsters if possible, at a later date,
while all I wanted was just to enjoy the game, &
hopefully let the players & spectators do the same.
What/Who has been the biggest influence on your career and
why?
Sunderland
Referees’ Society, especially Dick Madden, Bob Hodgson
& John Lowery, for the quality & depth of support
on offer. There’s nowhere better to learn & improve
your game.
In your opinion who is / was the best referee?
ME! Who else?
I
believe it would be unfair to single one out of so many
exceptional referees.
